Small Animal Treats
Nutritionally balanced small animal food should make up the bulk of your pet's diet but there's always room for treats. Small animal treats can be used for taming and training your pet, or simply as a means of introducing a little variety into their diet. It's important to stick to small animal treats that are appropriate for your pet's species and to limit their intake, as too many treats could upset their digestion or interfere with the nutrient balance of their diet. Small pet treats come in a variety of forms including:
- Soft treats: Small, chewy treats ideal for taming and training
- Baked treats: Crunchy treats baked into pellets, cubes, or biscuits
- Chew sticks: Snack sticks made from pet-safe wood, hay, or other edible ingredients
- Foraging blends: Mixtures of dried fruit, vegetables, nuts, or seeds
- Yogurt drops: Creamy fruit-flavored yogurt treats
With such a wide range of small animal treats to choose from, it's easy to keep your pet from getting bored. Offering treats can even be a form of enrichment for your pet. Try sprinkling some forage mix around their cage for them to find or offer a rotating selection of snack sticks to encourage chewing. Once you get a feel for your pet's preferences, be sure to add their favorites to your Autoship order along with their regular food.
Frequently Asked Questions about Small Animal Treats
What types of treats are best for small animals?
The best small animal treats for herbivores like rabbits and some rodents are made from natural wood, hay, dried fruit, and vegetables. Small animal pets who are carnivores or omnivores require different treats. Avoid giving any small pet treats that are high in sugar or fat, as these could trigger digestive upset or contribute to obesity. Stick to treats that are specifically intended for your pet's species.
How many treats can I give to my small pet?
How many treats you can give a small pet depends on their species, size, age, and specific dietary requirements. As a general rule, small animal treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet's daily calorie intake, so limit your pet to a few small animal treats several times a week.