Grain-based food and treats are not suitable for all cats. It can cause indigestion, allergic reaction, gastrointestinal and skin problems for sensitive stomach. That is why the demand for grain free cat treats increased a lot.
In this guide, I share my experience after feeding grain-based and grain free treats to my cat and knowing the benefits of grain free treats and the impact of grain on a cat.
On my behalf, there is a recipe of homemade grain free cat food that will be included in this guide. So, let’s read next.
Are grain free treats best for cats?
Yes, grain free treats are best for those kittens with a sensitive stomach, allergic reaction and weak digestion. However, grain-based treats have contained a lot of nutrients. So, you can see feet grain foods if your cat has the capabilities to take grain.
Benefits of grain free cat food
Grain free food has some unique health benefits for the cat. Also, know that sensitive kittens need grain free food to save from allergy, stomach discomfort and indigestion. However, this type of treat is also good for adult cats if they have digestion problems with grain.
Allergy prevention:
It seems slightly strange that a cat has a food allergy? But the fact is that a cat can have an allergic reaction to different foods. Because every cat has its physical condition, it is essential to feed as per their health condition. Grain free food is good for allergy prevention and keeps a cat far away from allergy.
Suitable for sensitive stomachs:
Grain naturally needs more time to digest for a cat. When it happens with a kitten, then it would be too difficult to digest. Keep in mind your kitty has not enough stomach power to digest hard components like grain.
So, if your cat or kitties have any sensitivity in the stomach, then it is good to avoid grain food and better to feed them grain free food.
Helps to increase protein:
We know that cats are carnivorous animals and they need enough protein in their diet. Generally, grain food comes with a lot of vitamins and nutrients. But there is less protein. On the other hand, grain free cat food is made from chicken, fish or another source of protein. So, grain free food can help to fill your cat’s protein demand.
Better for diabetic cats:
Do not that grain free food contains less amount of carbohydrate. And we know diabetic cats should take carbohydrates as little as possible. That is why grain free food is beneficial for a diabetic cat. Besides, grain food can cause highly glycemic carb for a diabetic cat.
The common symptom of grain food allergies
Saying about a specific allergic reaction is a bit difficult. Allergies can react uniquely to different foods. However, there are some common reactions to grain food allergies. If you notice these symptoms, then take steps soon.
- Inflamed skin
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive itchiness
- Hot spots
- Bald spots
- Scabs and sores
- Hair loss
Is your cat suffering from the above symptoms? Then contact a vet soon. A vet can suggest proper medicine. Otherwise, a long-term allergic reaction can be threatened for your cat.
The crucial consideration for grain free cat treats
In the last few years, grain free food has become more popular and reliable to cat parents. Especially, the parents of sensitive parents are dependable on it.
But it is essential to know about the components of grain free food. Here are some components that are full of nutrients and tasty too.
Approved by AAFCO:
AAFCO refers to the association of American feed control officials. And AAFCO approved grain free cat food. Overall, it means the quality, safety and health benefits of grain-free foods.
Crunchy or soft:
Cats have their preference to choose the food’s consistency, texture and softness. Grain free treats are generally soft, crunchy and tasty. So, you can prefer grain free cat treats for your cat as per the preference.
Flavor:
Grain free cat treats are available in a different flavor. So, you can provide your cat chicken, fish, salmon, turkey and duck flavor. But there have some chicken free cat treats.
Package size:
Grain free treats generally come as a small to medium package. If you have a few cats at home, you may need a larger package. In this case, you can buy a few medium packages for your multiple cats.
Ingredients:
Many grains free cat food has come with some limited protein-based ingredients. It is good to make sure about the amount of protein and the ingredients.
Homemade grain-free cat treat recipe
With some simple steps you can make healthy treats for cats homemade food.
Required equipment:
- A best quality food processor
- Enough baking sheets
- Some parchment papers
- An oven
Ingredients:
- Two cans of non-drained tuna fish
- 1/2 cup mashed and cooked pumpkin
- 3 to 4 egg yolks
- Three tablespoons sea fish powder
- 1/2 cup flour
Nutrient’s facts:
| Components | Amount |
| Calories | 5kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Saturated fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 7mg |
| Potassium | 6mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Vitamin A | 134IU |
| Vitamin C | 1mg |
| Calcium | 1mg |
| Iron | 1mg |
Step 1:
Heat the oven to 350-degree Fahrenheit temperature
Step 2:
Mix all of the ingredients into a food processor and let those grains properly.
Step 3:
After meshed properly, take ¼ tablespoon of meshed dough and give them a different shape. And then put on baking sheets. If you want, you can use some artificial flavors. But I don’t prefer that.
Step 4:
When all of the dough finishes, then let them baked into the oven for about 12 minutes. Put the treats out of the oven when they get brown.
Step 5:
At the last stage, let the food cool properly. And then store those into an airtight box or container. You can use this food for the next 2-3 weeks.
FAQs:
- Is Grain Free OK for cats?
Yes, grain free cat food is completely OK for cats. Grain free treats are made with many amounts of protein and less carbohydrate.
- Is Fussy Cat Grain Free good for cats?
Yes, Fussy grain free dry cat food is soft and crunchy to many cats. Also, it is safe for cat health.
- What cat food do vets recommend?
Royal Canin, Purina Pro Plan, and Eukanuba are the most popular vet recommended cat food.
- Can my cat eat a plant-based diet?
No, the cat can’t eat a plant-based diet because the cat is a carnivore that needs protein. But you can provide a plant-based diet frequently as a treat.
- Is grain free and gluten-free cat treats the same?
No, grain free and gluten-free cat treats are not similar. For example, grain free cat treats always come as gluten-free food. But gluten-free food is not always grain free. Also, note that gluten is one protein that comes from wheat, barley and rye.
- Are Greenies cat treats grain free?
Greenies cat treats are not completely grain free. There are very few cat treats that have grain free components.
Final Words
Grain free cat treats are rarely found in the market. Almost all of the delicious cat food is made with protein and less grain. However, there must be some beyond grain free cat treats at the pet shop.
But I believe that making grain free cat treats at home is much easier than finding one from the market. Homemade grain free cat treats are especially tasty, crunchy and healthy.
