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Dogs and cats are common pets, so it’s not surprising that people often wonder if their furry friends can share treats.
It’s important to know that dogs and cats have very different dietary requirements to be healthy.
These differences make sharing cat treats with dogs something that should be approached with caution.
For this reason, I consulted my father, Dr. Littlejohn, to discuss the question, “can dogs eat cat treats?”
So, can dogs eat cat treats? The short answer is yes, dogs can eat cat treats. The ingredients in cat treats are generally safe for dogs to eat. Dr. Littlejohn says, “cat treats shouldn’t be your dog’s primary treat, but having them once in a while won’t hurt them.” The only real risk is for dogs who often eat them in excess.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- Why cat treats aren’t the best for dogs
- The major differences between cat and dog diets
- Potential dangers associated with dogs eating cat treats
- What to do if your dog eats overeats cat food
- If dogs can eat temptations cat treats
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats?
When I asked Dr. Littlejohn, can dogs eat cat treats, his response was, “yes, it’s okay for dogs to eat cat treats occasionally.”
He went on to say that while the ingredients in cat treats are generally safe for dogs to eat, they shouldn’t be a dog’s primary treat.
The main reason for this is that cat foods are designed to meet the nutritional needs of cats, not dogs.
This means that they often contain higher fat and calories than what’s ideal for dogs.
Although cat treats can be safe for dogs to eat, they should never be given as a full meal.
The key to keeping a dog healthy and feeding them treats is controlling the quantity you give them.
Whether they are cat treats or just everyday dog treats, it all has to do with the quantity.
Moderation is vital when giving dogs treats.
The Difference Between Dog & Cat Digestion
One of the main reasons cat treats shouldn’t be a dog’s primary treat is that there are critical differences between the way cats and dogs digest food.
These differences make sharing treats between dogs and cats something that should be approached with caution.
How They Process Protein
The first difference has to do with the fact that cats are obligate carnivores.
This means their bodies are designed to digest and use protein from animal sources better than other nutrients.
On the other hand, dogs are considered omnivores. This means that their bodies can digest and use both plant and animal-based proteins relatively well.
While both cats and dogs can technically eat plant-based proteins, it’s not as easily digested by their bodies, leading to health problems over time.
How They Process Fat
The second difference has to do with the way cats and dogs process fat.
Cats have a higher ability to break down and use fat than dogs.
This is because their intestines are shorter, which means they can absorb fat more efficiently.
On the other hand, dogs have longer intestines, which can make it more difficult for them to digest and absorb fat.
While both cats and dogs can technically eat fat, it’s important to be aware of the differences in how their bodies process it.
How They Process Carbohydrates
The final difference has to do with the way cats and dogs process carbohydrates.
Cats have a very limited ability to digest carbohydrates.
This is because they lack the specific enzymes needed to break them down.
Dogs, on the other hand, can digest carbohydrates relatively well.
Can Cat Treats Be Good For Dogs To Eat?
While cat treats shouldn’t be a dog’s primary treat, there can be some benefits to feeding them to your dog on occasion.
The most notable benefit is that they can be a good source of protein.
Since cats are carnivores, their foods usually contain higher levels of animal protein which can be beneficial for dogs.
Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs, and it helps them build muscle, repair tissue, and produce enzymes and hormones.
Dangers Of Dogs Eating Cat Treats
While there can be some benefits to feeding your dog cat treats, there are also potential dangers.
The most notable danger is that cat food often contains higher fat and calories than what’s ideal for dogs.
As a result, feeding your dog too many cat treats can lead to weight gain, obesity, and gastrointestinal upset.
Not only that, but too much fat can also lead to pancreatitis in dogs which is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated properly.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite. In severe cases, it can lead to death.
The imbalance of nutrition in cat treats can also cause other problems for dogs.
When a dog lacks nutrients, this can start to show symptoms like poor coat quality, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
In severe cases, it can even lead to organ damage.
Are Cat Treats Bad For Dogs?
Cat treats are bad for dogs when consumed in large quantities or regularly.
While there can be some benefits to feeding your dog cat treats, the potential dangers outweigh the benefits.
If you decide to feed your dog cat treats, it’s essential to do so in moderation and ensure they get all the nutrients they need from their regular diet.
What To Do If Your Dog Overeats Cat Treats?
Suppose your dog happened to get into a bag of temptations cat treats. In that case, you’re likely wondering what you should do.
After speaking with Dr. Littlejohn, he gave some advice on what to do in this scenario.
When it comes to overeating cat treats, the most common issue will be an upset stomach (assuming this is a rare occurrence).
Symptoms of an upset stomach can include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea, with or without blood or mucus
- Constipation
- Increased gas
- Lack of appetite
- Dehydration
- Abdominal pain
- Abdominal enlargement/distension
- Distress or inability to get comfortable
The most common of these symptoms is diarrhea and vomiting.
Vomiting usually disappears after 24 hours, while diarrhea may last a few days.
Symptoms usually go away after your dog’s digestive system has had time to process the food. However, this assumes that the issue is just an upset stomach and not something more severe.
Just keep your eye on them and if your dog is showing any severe symptoms or symptoms lasting longer than 24-48 hours, contact your vet.
You can also use online services to speak directly with a vet for immediate help.
Click here if you wish to speak with a vet online right now.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dogs Eat Temptations Cat Treats?
Yes, dogs can eat temptations cat treats since they don’t contain any harmful ingredients. However, they shouldn’t be used as their primary source of treats. Dogs and cats have different nutritional needs, so treats explicitly made for dogs are much better for their health and wellbeing.
Can Dogs Eat Cat Grass?
Yes, dogs can eat cat grass. It’s not harmful to them and can actually provide some health benefits. However, some dogs may be allergic to grass, so it’s always best to consult with your vet first.
If your dog tends to vomit after eating grass or has a sensitive stomach, it’s best to avoid letting them eat cat grass.
Can Dogs Eat Catnip Treats?
Yes, dogs can eat catnip treats. Catnip is a herb that’s safe for dogs to consume. In fact, it can actually provide some health benefits, such as reducing anxiety and promoting calmness.
However, not all dogs will react to catnip in the same way. Some may become more energetic, while others may become more relaxed. Therefore, it’s best to experiment and see how your dog reacts before giving them too much.
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