Cats are renowned for their discerning palates, often turning up their noses at foods that don’t meet their exacting standards. As temperatures rise, providing your feline friend with refreshing and appropriate snacks becomes particularly important. Our article on “Summer Snacks For Cats” dives into a variety of cool, feline-approved treats that are perfect for the season. From frozen concoctions to chilled meats, and even some unexpected fruits and vegetables, discover how to keep your cat both satisfied and hydrated during the warmer months. A local Bellaire, TX vet provides valuable insights and safe options for these tasty delights, ensuring your cat enjoys the summer as much as you do.
Do you have a finicky kitty? Or is your feline pal always interested in food? Fluffy can be fussy, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t enjoy snacks. You may just need to experiment a bit to find out what your cat enjoys. A Bellaire, TX vet offers some suggestions for safe options in this article.
Frozen Treats
You can whip up quite a few freezable snacks for your furry buddy. One option is to just drizzle tuna and the tuna ‘juice’ over shaved ice. You can also combine them in a blender. This also works with canned cat food. Another option would be to mix tuna with fat-free plain yogurt and some parsley. Divide it into small portions and freeze. (Note: bottlecaps can be very helpful for portioning out serving sizes.) While exploring cooling treats for your cat, don’t forget your canine companion might also need help beating the heat. Check out our tips in ‘Helping Fido Beat The Heat‘ for keeping your dog cool and comfortable.
Store-Bought Options
You can also freeze many lickable cat treats or mousse-style canned cat food. Plain canned tuna, chicken, crab, or shrimp also works chilled.
Cold Meats
Kitties are carnivores, so it only makes sense that chilled meats can be a good treat. Most kinds of meat are fine, as are fish and poultry. You do want to limit organ meat, such as liver and kidney, as well as heavily processed or fatty meats, such as sausage. Make sure there are no skin, bones, or fat.
Fruits/Veggies
Many fruits and veggies are safe for kitties in small doses, though whether or not Fluffy actually cares for them is a different story. Some safe options include blueberries, strawberries, spinach, cucumber, and peas.
Broth Options
Sodium-free broth is also a good option for your feline friend. It contains electrolytes, which is also good for keeping Fluffy hydrated. You can just offer your furball a chilled bowl. Or, put kibble or shredded meat into a small ice cube tray, pour the broth into that, and freeze overnight.
Tips
Treats can be a great way to brighten up Fluffy’s day, but it’s important to pay attention to calorie counts. Even giving your feline buddy a few extra calories a day can cause her to gain weight. Also, stick with things you’re certain are safe. Some things to avoid include avocado; grapes, currants, and raisins; chocolate; caffeine; alcohol; meat on the bone; and anything with seeds or pips. To keep your cat healthy while enjoying summer treats, make sure they’re up to date on their wellness checks and vaccinations. Learn more about our ‘Veterinary Wellness & Pet Vaccinations’ services at your local Bellaire, TX veterinarian.
Cooling and Creative Summer Snacks for Cats in 2024
How can frozen treats help keep cats cool?
Frozen treats can effectively aid in cooling down cats during hot weather. By offering snacks like shaved ice drizzled with tuna juice, or frozen tuna mixed with fat-free plain yogurt, cats receive a refreshing and enjoyable experience. Additionally, sodium-free broth poured over kibble or meat in an ice cube tray and then frozen provides hydration through a palatable format. These options not only help regulate a cat’s temperature but also ensure they remain hydrated, which is crucial for their overall health in warmer climates.
Are there any commercial frozen treat options for cats?
Yes, there are commercial frozen treat options available for cats. Many pet stores stock lickable cat treats and mousse-style canned cat food specifically designed to be frozen. Additionally, plain canned seafood such as tuna, chicken, crab, or shrimp can also be served chilled, providing a refreshing snack. These treats are formulated to be safe and appealing to cats, offering a convenient way to keep them cool and satisfied during warmer months. Always check the label to ensure they are appropriate and safe for your cat’s dietary needs.
Are there any alternatives for lactose-intolerant cats?
For lactose-intolerant cats, there are several suitable snack alternatives that avoid dairy. These include frozen treats made from tuna juice or sodium-free broth, which can be poured over shaved ice or blended with safe, non-dairy ingredients. Additionally, plain canned seafood like tuna, chicken, crab, or shrimp served chilled offers a refreshing option. Small portions of safe fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, cucumbers, or peas can also be a good choice. Always ensure that any treats given are free from harmful ingredients and suitable for a cat’s dietary restrictions.
What are some creative ways to serve frozen treats to cats?
Cats can enjoy a variety of frozen treats that are both refreshing and nutritious. An easy option is to drizzle tuna juice over shaved ice, or blend it for a smoother texture. Mixing tuna with fat-free plain yogurt and a sprinkle of parsley, then freezing in small portions, offers a savory delight. Alternatively, freezing sodium-free broth in an ice cube tray with bits of kibble or shredded meat can provide a hydrating snack. These treats not only help cats beat the heat but also keep them hydrated and engaged.
How can frozen treats be used for enrichment or play?
Frozen treats offer both enrichment and play opportunities for cats. Freezable snacks like tuna mixed with yogurt or sodium-free broth frozen with bits of meat engage a cat’s senses and provide a cooling relief, especially in hot weather. These treats can be prepared in interesting shapes or small sizes that encourage hunting and pouncing behaviors, mimicking natural predatory activities. Additionally, the act of licking frozen treats can be soothing and occupy cats for extended periods, reducing boredom and promoting mental stimulation.
If you have questions about your cat’s diet, please contact us, your Bellaire, TX veterinarian. We’re here to help!