Senior cats are exactly like a grumpy, fussy old person, one day they’re obsessed with salmon, and the next, they want nothing to do with it. One thing that never changes, though, is how much cats love treats! Freeze-dried treats have long been a favourite among felines, and even better, they offer many benefits and come in a variety of flavours. Regardless of your cats age, a good freeze-dried treat will tickle your cat’s senses with its strong aroma and delicious taste.
What Are Freeze-Dried Treats?
Freeze-dried treats are made through a process known as sublimation. This involves removing all moisture from the treat, which is then frozen and vacuum-sealed. What’s brilliant about this method is that the treats retain most of their nutrients, aroma, and flavour. Other processes that use heat can compromise these essential qualities, making freeze-dried options more appealing from both a nutritional and sensory perspective.
Most freeze-dried treats, like those from Fuzzball, are made with single ingredient sources, such as chicken.
Why Do People Prefer Freeze-Dried Treats?
Aside from the fact that freeze-dried treats retain most of their nutrients, flavours, and aromas, there are many other practical reasons why cat owners love them. Because the treats are freeze-dried, they’re usually quite soft and easy to break apart. This makes them ideal as toppers or for portioning into smaller pieces. They’re also typically low in carbohydrates, which makes them a healthy snack without the risk of excessive weight gain.
What Are The Benefits Of Freeze-Dried Treats For Older Cats?
There are several reasons why freeze-dried treats are a great option for senior cats:
High-Quality Protein
Freeze-dried treats are generally high in protein, which is ideal for cats as natural carnivores. Cats are designed to digest and utilise animal-based proteins efficiently. Most senior cats tend to nap more than they did in their younger years, which can lead to muscle loss. A high-protein treat can help maintain muscle mass and keep your older cat strong and healthy.
Low In Carbs
Freeze-dried treats are usually made from a single protein source, like beef or chicken, and don’t contain fillers such as salt, sugar, or grains. This makes them low in carbs, which is perfect for older cats who are more sedentary. Less activity means fewer calories are being burned, so keeping treats low in carbohydrates helps prevent unnecessary weight gain.
Satisfies Even Picky Eaters
Cats are notoriously fussy eaters, and senior cats can be the worst critics when it comes to food. Luckily, freeze-dried treats are very palatable and aromatic, making them tempting even for the most particular of felines. Flavours like chicken, fish, or beef can easily attract a picky cat’s attention and satisfy their selective tastes.
Easy On Digestion
Since quality freeze-dried treats contain no added fillers like sugars or artificial additives, they’re easy for older cats to digest. This helps prevent digestive upset, which can be especially important for grumpy seniors with sensitive stomachs.
Easy To Portion And Store
Another bonus is how convenient freeze-dried treats are. They’re easy to store, break apart, and portion out, allowing you to manage your cat’s intake with ease. You can even add water to the treats, which not only softens them for older teeth but also provides a hydration boost.
Senior Cats: Picky, Prickly, and Utterly Perfect
As with anything, there are a few things to consider when giving freeze-dried treats to your senior cat:
Hydration
Older cats often spend more time sleeping and may not drink enough water throughout the day. Hydration is crucial, particularly for senior cats whose kidney function may not be as strong as it once was. Consider adding water to the freeze-dried treats or using wet food alongside them to support hydration levels.
Dental Concerns
Some senior cats may have dental issues or missing teeth, which can make it difficult for them to chew certain treats. While some cats may enjoy the texture of freeze-dried treats, others might find them too tough. In such cases, soaking the treats in a little water can help soften them and make them easier to eat.
Cautions For Senior Cat Owners
Feeding your senior cat the right food is essential for their health. If your cat suffers from conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or has a particularly sensitive stomach, it’s always wise to consult your vet before introducing freeze-dried treats into their diet. While they’re generally safe, individual health concerns should always take priority.
Pawtion Control
It’s important to follow the recommended feeding guidelines provided on the packaging. Overfeeding treats, no matter how healthy, can lead to weight issues or create a treat-obsessed cat who refuses their regular meals. Moderation is key!
Are Freeze-Dried Treats Beneficial for Senior Cats?
In most cases, yes, freeze-dried treats can be a fantastic addition to your older cat’s diet. Because they’re typically made from a single protein source and free from unnecessary additives, they’re easy to digest and full of flavour. The intense aroma and taste make them appealing even for the fussiest of cats.
That said, it’s vital to pay attention to your cat’s hydration levels, dental health, and portion sizes. With a bit of care and observation, freeze-dried treats can bring a lot of joy to your senior cat’s day, and possibly even become the highlight of it.
