Best Treats for American Shorthairs

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American Shorthairs are prone to obesity, making calorie control a top priority when it comes to treats. With their easygoing and adaptable nature, they thrive on positive reinforcement training, which treats can facilitate. However, their moderate energy level and tendency to gain weight as they age necessitate a careful approach to treat selection. As a medium-sized breed, American Shorthairs require treats that are appropriately sized to meet their needs without overfeeding. Their dense short coat and moderate shedding also mean that they can benefit from treats that support dental health and reduce hairballs. Fortunately, there are many treat options available that cater to these specific needs, making it possible to provide American Shorthairs with a balanced and healthy treat regimen. When selecting treats for American Shorthairs, it's essential to consider their food motivation, training needs, and calorie requirements. By choosing treats that align with these factors, owners can help support their cat's overall health and well-being while also strengthening their bond through positive reinforcement training.

What to look for

Calorie Control

American Shorthairs are prone to obesity, so it's crucial to choose treats that are low in calories. Look for treats with fewer than 2 calories per piece to ensure that your cat isn't consuming too many extra calories. Consider the treat's size and adjust the serving size accordingly to meet your cat's individual needs.

Protein Content

American Shorthairs are carnivores and require a diet rich in protein. Choose treats that are high in protein and made with named protein sources, such as chicken or salmon, to support their overall health and satisfy their natural instincts.

Dental Health

American Shorthairs can benefit from treats that support dental health, such as those that reduce tartar and plaque. Look for treats that carry the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of approval or have a crunchy texture that helps clean teeth.

Hairball Reduction

While American Shorthairs don't shed excessively, they can still benefit from treats that help reduce hairballs. Consider treats that contain ingredients like psyllium or fiber, which can help move hair through the digestive system and reduce the risk of hairballs.

Training and Bonding

American Shorthairs thrive on positive reinforcement training, and treats can play a significant role in this process. Choose treats that are small, tasty, and easy to consume, making them ideal for reward-based training and strengthening the bond between cat and owner.

Our top picks

Temptations Classic Crunchy & Soft Cat Treats

Best for Calorie control and training

Temptations Classic Crunchy & Soft Cat Treats are an excellent choice for American Shorthairs due to their low calorie count and small size. With under 2 calories per treat, owners can feel confident that they're not overfeeding their cat. The crunchy outside and soft center also make them a great reward for positive reinforcement training, helping to strengthen the bond between cat and owner.

✓ Low calorie count
✓ Small size
✓ Crunchy outside and soft center

✕ May not be suitable for cats with certain food allergies

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Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats

Best for Dental health

Greenies Feline Adult Dental Cat Treats are a great choice for American Shorthairs due to their ability to reduce tartar and plaque. The crunchy texture helps clean teeth, and the VOHC seal of approval ensures that they meet the highest standards for dental health. As a medium-sized breed, American Shorthairs can benefit from the 2.1 oz or 4.6 oz size options, which provide the right amount of treat without overfeeding.

✓ Reduces tartar and plaque
✓ Crunchy texture cleans teeth
✓ VOHC approved

✕ May not be as palatable as other treats

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Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Treats

Best for High-protein diet

Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Treats are an excellent choice for American Shorthairs due to their high protein content and single-ingredient formula. Made with named protein sources like chicken or salmon, these treats provide a nutritious and healthy snack that supports the cat's overall health. The 0.5 oz size option is ideal for American Shorthairs, as it provides the right amount of treat without overfeeding.

✓ High protein content
✓ Single-ingredient formula
✓ Made with named protein sources

✕ May be more expensive than other treat options

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Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats

Best for Grain-free diet

Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats are a great choice for American Shorthairs due to their grain-free formula and low calorie count. With only 2 calories per treat, owners can feel confident that they're not overfeeding their cat. The crunchy texture also makes them a great reward for positive reinforcement training, helping to strengthen the bond between cat and owner. The 2 oz size option is suitable for American Shorthairs, as it provides the right amount of treat without overfeeding.

✓ Grain-free formula
✓ Low calorie count
✓ Crunchy texture

✕ May not be suitable for cats with certain food allergies

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Inaba Churu Lickable Puree Cat Treats

Best for Sensitive stomachs

Inaba Churu Lickable Puree Cat Treats are a great choice for American Shorthairs with sensitive stomachs due to their gentle, easily digestible formula. The lickable puree texture also makes them a great way to provide hydration and satisfy your cat's natural instincts. The 0.5 oz tubes are ideal for American Shorthairs, as they provide the right amount of treat without overfeeding.

✓ Gentle, easily digestible formula
✓ Lickable puree texture
✓ Provides hydration

✕ May not be as filling as other treat options

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Frequently asked questions

How many treats can I give my American Shorthair per day?

The number of treats you can give your American Shorthair per day depends on the treat's calorie count and your cat's individual needs. As a general rule, it's recommended to limit treats to 10% of your cat's daily calorie intake. For American Shorthairs, this means limiting treats to 1-2 per 10 pounds of body weight per day.

Can I give my American Shorthair table scraps as treats?

It's not recommended to give your American Shorthair table scraps as treats, as they can be high in calories, fat, and sodium. Instead, opt for commercial treats specifically formulated for cats, like those listed above, which are designed to meet their nutritional needs and support their overall health.

How can I use treats to train my American Shorthair?

Treats can be a great way to train your American Shorthair, especially when used in conjunction with positive reinforcement techniques. Start by choosing a treat that your cat finds appealing, then use it to reward desired behaviors, such as sitting or coming when called. Be sure to phase out treats as your cat becomes more proficient, replacing them with praise and affection.

Can I give my American Shorthair dental treats daily?

It's generally recommended to give your American Shorthair dental treats 2-3 times a week, rather than daily. This can help support their dental health without overfeeding or causing digestive upset. However, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult with your veterinarian for specific guidance on using dental treats for your cat.

How can I prevent my American Shorthair from becoming overweight?

To prevent your American Shorthair from becoming overweight, it's essential to monitor their food intake and ensure they're getting regular exercise. Limit treats to 10% of their daily calorie intake, choose low-calorie treats, and avoid overfeeding. Also, ensure your cat has plenty of opportunities for physical activity, such as playtime with toys or scratching posts, to support their overall health and well-being.

When it comes to choosing the best treats for American Shorthairs, it's essential to prioritize calorie control, high-protein content, and dental health. By selecting treats that meet these criteria, such as those listed above, owners can help support their cat's overall health and well-being while also strengthening their bond through positive reinforcement training. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice on selecting the best treats for your American Shorthair, and to monitor your cat's individual needs and adjust their treat regimen accordingly.

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