If you’re a cat parent, you’d already know what your furry friend enjoys as treats. But as a good pet parent, one must know the essential ingredients their four-legged friends must consume to keep them healthy and at their best. Don’t worry; we have done the groundwork for you, and this article shares a list of must-have ingredients in healthy cat treats.

1.Protein
Cats are hardcore carnivore animals, and they require a daily intake of animal protein. The protein in cat foods can come from chicken, poultry, beef, lamb, fish, and liver. Basically, all meat and fish ingredients contain protein, which should be the top ingredient when choosing cat treats. Also, try to steer clear of animal by-products as they may only include parts of animals that are not useful and may carry less to no nutrition at all.

2. Omega 3s and 6s
Fish like salmon, mackerel, trout, anchovies, sardines, and arctic char carry potent amounts of omega 3-and-6s. Other ingredients that offer this nutrient include eggs, flaxseeds and its oil, soybeans, canola oil, walnuts, and tofu. They help enhance the cat’s immune system and keep the hair shiny and lustrous.

3. Healthy fats
After protein, cats require consumption of healthy fats as they use it to convert it into energy. It is the next best ingredient for cat food, and it can be derived from animal fat. The percent of fat your feline must intake could be anywhere between 20%-24%. But remember to only opt for commercial cat foods that mention their fat source, for instance, chicken fat or fish fat.

4. Probiotics
Yes, they also help felines digest their food better. Probiotics are potent sources of good bacteria that the gut requires to do its job right. It enables the breakdown of food, eliminating digestive issues like bloating and passing gas. Some of the commercial formulas that include probiotics are Purina Pro Plan Liveclear Probiotic Formula, Addiction Grain-Free Viva La Venison, Now Fresh Grain-Free Senior Weight Management Recipe Dry Cat Food, and Nature’s Logic Feline Rabbit Meal Feast With Probiotics, among others.

5. Vitamins, minerals, and water
Cats require a good balance of vitamins and minerals in their dry foods to function and feel at their best. Not to mention their furry coat is proof of how well-fed one’s feline friend is. Vitamins and minerals cat’s food must include vitamin B-12, vitamin- C, iron, calcium, and zinc. Water is clubbed with vitamins and minerals because it is essential for the digestive system of the body and to absorb the nutrients from the food. A hydrated pet’s body helps keep their organs working optimally and eliminates the risks of them fainting or feeling dizzy due to lack of water intake.

While we’ve learned about the top ingredients in a healthy cats treat, it’s imperative also to make a note of ingredients pet parents must steer clear of, some of which are listed below.

• Food colors
• Preservatives
• Carb fillers
• Wheat gluten
• Rendered fat