How to Use Cat Treats

Cat treats should remain treats, not a part of the cats' diet. Many pet owners give a regular treat during a favorite television show or after dinner. Instead of this being a normal part of your cat's life, the treats should be treats.

He likes a lot of treats!

If I have to give my cat medicine, for instance, I make sure the cat gets a treat afterwards to help the pills go down. Like Mary Poppins said, "A Spoonful of Sugar Helps the Medicine Go Down" and so it should be.

If your cat likes catnip, set a time to give her some. Be sure to watch your cat, as cats enjoy performing for you when under the influence. Over-use of catnip will make a drunken cat with no appreciation for that little catnip mouse you just brought home for her. You can also use catnip to train your cat to the scratching post. Rub a little on the surface and your cat will use the scratching post instead of the furniture.

When I have to board my cat, I give treats to the caretaker as a treat for my cat. I want my cat to like going there. I also give treats when we get back home from the vet. It's stressful enough to be put in a carrier and taken in a car to someplace strange. If my cat gets a treat on returning home, he is likely to be easier to get into the carrier the next time.

Cat treats can be training aids, as well. You can give a treat when your cat comes to his name, associating that activity with something pleasant. Even if you have to pick the cat up and put it in a carrier, coming to you will be more likely because of the treat. But, give the treat before you pick the cat up and put it in a carrier. The coming to you should be rewarded.

Perhaps that cat who chases the brush will be more amenable to being brushed, combed and washed if given a treat. Cats need to have flea drops, be brushed and combed. If mats appear, they need to be removed. If your cat is rotund, you may need to clean the hind end occasionally. All these activities will be more pleasant if the cat is calm and accepting of the ministrations. A treat always helps.

So, use treats as treats. They are too rich to be used in place of the good food you provide, and are a powerful adjunct to training your cat.

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