Treats: A Little Goes a Long Way

Treats are one of the great joys of pet ownership – a way to reward, connect, and show your pet a little extra love. But like most good things, they work best in the right measure. Here’s what you need to know about treating your pet well and treating them responsibly.

How many treats is too many?

Treats are designed for occasional enjoyment, not everyday meals, and overindulging your pet can lead to more than just a pudgy belly. Too many treats can cause energy imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and in some cases, make your pet unwell.

The widely accepted guideline from animal health experts is that treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake. Beyond that, you’re likely tipping the scales – literally.

Treats have a real role to play in a pet’s life, though. They’re a valuable tool for training, bonding, distraction, enrichment, and reinforcing good behaviour. The key is finding treats that your pet loves, that motivate them, and that fit safely into their overall diet. Whether that’s a small piece of chicken, a bit of cheese, or a commercial treat that meets Australian pet food safety standards (AS5812 – “Manufacturing and marketing of pet food – Cats and dogs”), the options are wide.

The golden rule: treats should complement a complete and balanced diet, never replace it. If your pet is filling up on treats, they may not be getting the full spectrum of nutrients they need. If you’re unsure what’s right for your individual pet – especially if they have health conditions or specific dietary needs – your vet is always a great first call.

Safety first

Not all treats are created equal, and what’s safe for one pet might not be safe for another. Before reaching for that snack, consider:

• Does it contain any toxic ingredients? Foods like chocolate, xylitol, raw yeast, and caffeine can be harmful – and what’s toxic varies between species, so always seek species-specific advice.
• Does your pet have any individual sensitivities? Medical conditions, allergies, or prescription diets can all affect what’s appropriate.
• Is there a contamination risk? Consider whether the treat poses any pathogen risk to your pet or your household.
• Could it cause physical harm? Hard treats, those with sharp edges, or anything that can splinter or cause a blockage – including cooked bones, antlers, and hooves – all carry risk.
• Is it the right size and shape? Treats should be appropriately sized for your pet to reduce any choking risk.

Always supervise treat time

No matter your pet’s age or experience, supervision during treat time is always a good idea – particularly the first few times they’re trying something new, or when they’re in an unfamiliar environment like visiting family, staying somewhere new, or eating alongside other animals.

Think of it this way: the first time your pet encounters a new treat, it’s a learning experience for them. Give them the space to explore it and be present to guide the lesson, just as you would when teaching a new behaviour or introducing them to a new environment.

If something goes wrong

Even with the best intentions, adverse reactions can happen. These might be due to an individual food sensitivity, or an issue with the treat itself. If you notice anything concerning after feeding your pet a treat, stop immediately and speak to your vet. They can report any suspected issues through the Pet Food Adverse Event Tracking System (PetFAST) if needed.

If the treat is commercially produced, contact the manufacturer too – their customer care team should be able to provide product information and support.

Beyond the biscuit

It’s worth remembering that treats are just one way to show your pet some love. Non-food rewards – like play, attention, or their favourite kind of physical affection (chin scratches or belly rubs, anyone?) – are just as meaningful to many animals and carry none of the dietary considerations.

When you do reach for the treat jar, variety is your friend. Rather than defaulting to the same treat every time, mix it up with a range of safe options your pet enjoys. It keeps things interesting for them – and ensures you’re not over-relying on any single ingredient or product.

Treating responsibly isn’t about cutting back on the joy – it’s about making sure every treat counts, for the right reasons.

Written with the support of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and RSPCA.