Freeze dried fish treats have become a popular snack option for cat owners looking to provide their feline friends with a tasty, protein-packed treat. But are these freeze dried treats actually good for cats? Here is an in-depth look at the benefits and potential drawbacks of feeding freeze dried fish treats to cats.
The Nutritional Benefits of Freeze Dried Fish for Cats
The main appeal of freeze dried fish treats is that they offer a concentrated source of protein. Fish is naturally high in protein, but the freeze drying process removes the moisture content, leaving behind just the protein, fat, and micronutrients of the fish. This makes freeze dried fish an excellent source of dietary protein for obligate carnivores like cats.
Some key nutritional benefits that freeze dried fish treats offer cats include:
- High protein levels – Fish is typically at least 40-50% protein by weight when freeze dried.
- Essential amino acids – Fish contains all 10 essential amino acids cats require.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Fish is a natural source of DHA and EPA.
- Vitamins and minerals – Fish contains vitamins like A, D, E and B vitamins as well as minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and selenium.
For cats that need a protein boost or are picky eaters, freeze dried fish can help provide supplemental protein and nutrients they may miss out on with their regular diet. The freeze drying process preserves these nutrients well compared to other preservation methods.
Potential Downsides of Freeze Dried Fish for Cats
While freeze dried fish offers valuable nutrition, there are some potential downsides cat owners should be aware of as well, including:
- Nutritional imbalances – Feeding too many freeze dried treats could lead to an unbalanced diet high in protein but potentially inadequate in other nutrients.
- High sodium content – Freeze dried fish often contains added salt as a preservative, which could be harmful to some cats prone to sodium sensitivity.
- Risk of chronic kidney disease – Excess protein from supplements like fish treats may worsen kidney function in cats already at risk for CKD.
- Allergies or intolerances – Some cats may have allergies to fish or intolerances to additives and preservatives used in freeze dried treats.
- Gastrointestinal upset – The high protein, low moisture, and salty characteristics of fish treats could potentially cause digestive upset in some cats.
While most healthy cats can enjoy fish treats in moderation, cats with pre-existing conditions like kidney disease, heart disease, or diabetes may need to avoid or limit these high protein snacks. Checking with your vet is advised.
Are There Any Risks With the Freeze Drying Process?
The freeze drying process itself is generally considered very safe for preserving the nutrients in fish. Freeze drying works by freezing fish and then reducing pressure to allow frozen water in the fish to sublimate directly from solid phase to gas phase. This helps maintain the cellular structure of the fish better than cooking and removes moisture content.
Some benefits of freeze dried fish treats include:
- Preserves nutrients better than cooking
- Prevents growth of bacteria and mold
- Makes fish very lightweight and crunchy
- Extends shelf life significantly compared to raw fish
There are very minimal risks associated directly with the freeze drying process. However, some lower quality freeze dried fish treats may contain more preservatives and sodium than necessary. Checking the ingredient list and analysis for any additives is advised.
What Are Some Recommended Freeze Dried Fish Treats for Cats?
When shopping for freeze dried fish treats, look for options made from fresh, whole fish that undergo minimal processing. Some top recommended brands include:
- Stewart Pro-Treat Freeze Dried Raw Skinless Cat Treats
- Feline Natural Chicken & Salmon Freeze-Dried Food Topper
- PureBites Freeze Dried Fish Cat Treats
- Catperson Organics Freeze Dried Chicken and Salmon Cat Treats
- Primal Freeze Dried Nuggets Salmon and Sardine Formula
Always read the labels and ingredients list carefully to choose treats with mainly whole fish and minimal additives. Avoid any treats containing artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors.
What Fish Types Are Best for Cat Treats?
Many different fish types are commonly used in freeze dried cat treats. Some of the most nutritious and cat-friendly fish include:
- Salmon – High in omega-3s and protein, salmon is a nutritious fish cats love.
- Sardines – Small, soft bones provide calcium while sardines offer vitamin D and anti-inflammatory omega-3s.
- Anchovies – High in calcium and low in mercury, these small fish provide a tasty, nutritious cat treat.
- Herring – Another omega-3 rich small fish perfect for kitty treats.
- Mackerel – Mackerel provides high protein with almost 60% of calories from fat to help maintain a lean body composition in cats.
Fish like tuna can also be used but may have higher mercury levels, so feeding should be limited. Avoid larger, oily fish that are higher in toxins like swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel.
How Often Can Cats Have Freeze Dried Fish Treats?
Most veterinary experts recommend limiting freeze dried fish treats to no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake. The frequency will vary based on the size and health of your cat, but some general guidelines include:
- Kittens: 1-2 treats per day
- Small cats: 1-3 treats per day
- Medium cats: 2-4 treats per day
- Large cats: 3-5 treats per day
It’s best to start slowly with 1 treat at a time to ensure your cat tolerates freeze dried fish well. Breaking treats into smaller pieces can allow you to limit portion sizes. Monitoring your cat’s weight and health is important to adjust frequency as needed.
Are There Any Alternatives to Freeze Dried Fish Treats?
If your cat cannot have freeze dried fish treats, some alternatives to provide supplemental protein include:
- Boiled, baked or roasted chicken or turkey
- Canned fish like tuna or sardines packed in water
- Low-sodium deli meats (unseasoned turkey, chicken, roast beef)
- Freeze dried raw or cooked chicken or beef treats
- Freeze dried chicken or turkey liver treats
You can also rotate different freeze dried proteins like chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, and duck for variety.
Key Takeaways on Freeze Dried Fish Cat Treats
In summary, the key points to keep in mind when feeding freeze dried fish treats to cats include:
- Offer in moderation as a supplement, not a meal replacement
- Choose whole food, single ingredient treats with minimal processing
- Select treats made from cat-safe fish like salmon, sardines, herring
- Adjust portions based on your cat’s size, age, and health status
- Discontinue use if any signs of allergies, intolerance, or gastrointestinal upset
- Store treats properly to maintain quality and freshness
When used responsibly as part of an overall balanced diet, freeze dried raw fish can be a healthy supplemental treat option for most cats. Moderating portions and selecting high quality products is key to ensuring safety.
Conclusion
Freeze dried fish treats can offer cats supplemental protein and nutrients from whole food sources their regular diet may lack. However, portion control is imperative, and freeze dried fish should not exceed 10% of daily calories. Consulting your veterinarian about appropriate treat options is always recommended, especially for cats with medical conditions. Within normal limits though, most healthy cats can enjoy freeze dried fish treats in moderation as part of a balanced, varied diet.