Giving food is an important way for people to show love to their pets. Sadly, with busy lives and lots of commitments, we all too often substitute treats for walks, stimulation, or play time.
We now have an obesity crisis in cats and dogs, much like humans. Around 40% of cats and dogs in Europe are overweight or obese. And this has a big impact on health.
It’s best not to give human food to pets at all, because lots of things such as onions, chocolate, raisins and some sweeteners are very toxic to animals. But even the foods that are not toxic can be a problem. What looks like a small amount to us, a 70kg human, can be like a whole meal to a cat or dog!
Do not feed table scraps to your dog or cat, especially if they are trying to lose weight. Begging is a difficult habit to break once it’s started.
Too many snacks can add up fast! Take a look at these treats and what it would mean in human terms.
Tasty Tips
- For a cat, a piece of cheese may seem like a little treat, but it's like a whole meal for cats.
- For a dog, a cookie or a piece of cheese may seem like a little treat, but it too is like a whole meal for dogs.
NOTE: If your veterinarian has suggested using cheese or another human snack to administer medicine, please be aware of the extra calories and account for it in your dog or cat's daily caloric intake. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions.
Reviewed by Dr. Hein Meyer, DVM, PhD, Dipl-ECVIM-CA and Dr. Emma Milne BVSc FRCVS
Related products
Perfect Weight Adult Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Perfect Weight Adult Cat Food with Chicken is clinically proven nutrition to reach & maintain healthy weight.
Urinary Health Adult Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Urinary Health Adult Cat Food with Chicken supports the health of the whole urinary system. Suitable for sterilised cats.
Mature Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Cat Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food supports graceful aging in cats, providing a synergistic ingredient blend to help support energy & activity levels.
Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Adult Cat Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food is specially formulated to fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life.Related articles
Pet Nutrition: What Makes "Healthy" Pet Food Healthy? | Hill's Pet
In people, the right diet is very important. If you are eating the wrong way for your metabolism, activity level, age and lifestyle you could end up with health issues.
Microchipping: The Facts | Hill's Pet
The government has announced that as of April 2016, all dogs in the UK must be microchipped by law.
Proteins
To make a protein, amino acids are linked together in a long chain. The chain is then bundled into to a three-dimensional structure, like a tangled ball of yarn.
The Incredible Science Behind Your Pet's Microbiome
Learn what your pet's microbiome is, how it contributes to your pet's gut and overall health, and why nutrition is important in maintaining healthy microbiomes.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.