Cat Forum banner
Cancel
Create thread New Forums

treats for a kitty prone to crystals?

Jump to Latest
1.3K views 3 replies 3 participants last post by  GotFur  
Q
#1 ·
I am working on getting Quinn and his new frenemy Minerva to enjoy each other's presence more. This means lots of pat-pats, treats, and play sessions when they're in the same room. Slowly but surely, I see them becoming more tolerant of one another.

But ordinarily, because he has a history of urine crystals, I tend not to give Quinn many treats at all, and limit him strictly to his prescription diet. When he does get a treat, it's usually something like a Friskies chicken-flavored treat -- fatty-cat loooves his "chicken cookies", but I know they're not very good for him. Also, Minerva is not very enthusiastic about them. So I think I need to find a new treat. Ideally, it would be safe for crystal-prone Quinn to eat whenever he deserves a reward (and not overly fattening...), but also would be tasty enough to work as a successful incentive for Minerva.

So what kind of treats should I consider?

thanks from me and the fur-kids :catsm
 
L
#2 ·
Without knowing what type of crystals Quinn develops (struvite or oxalate), your best bet is to choose treats that don't alter urine pH one way or the other. I don't know what that would be, though. Also, it's really not a good idea to give edible treats to an already overweight cat. It would be much better to stick with non-edible rewards like petting, grooming, and playing. You might try tossing some dried catnip leaves around the floor and letting them enjoy themselves that way as an occasional treat.

Laurie
 
Q
#3 ·
Hey Laurie, thanks for the input. Quinn is prone to struvite crystals.

I know it's not wise to give an overweight cat edible rewards -- the temptation is strong because he is so much more highly motivated by food than by other rewards, and I just wanted something healthier than Friskies to consider as a potential option in conjunction with the non-edible rewards. I have been meaning to work out a ChubCat weight loss plan with the vet.

Thanks again :)
 
G
#4 ·
When we found a natural pet food place locally, we picked up a pack of treats from Whole Life Pet that are essentially dehydrated chicken breast. No preservatives, no chemicals, or anything else. They LOVE these things even though they only get a piece every few days. And they should, they're expensive as all get out, but since it's the only type of special thing they get, we cave in.
 
Cat Forum
posts
1.2M
members
62K
Since
2003
A forum community dedicated to breeds of cat owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about breeds, training, kittens, food reviews, rescues, and more.
Full Forum Listing
Explore Our Forums
Health and Nutrition Cat Chat Behavior Meet My Kitty Cat Tails