Learn more about Hill’s commitment to sustainability
Giving food is an important way for people to show love to their pets. Sadly, with busy lives and lots of commitments, we all too often substitute treats for walks, stimulation, or play time.
We now have an obesity crisis in cats and dogs, much like humans. Around 40% of cats and dogs in Europe are overweight or obese. And this has a big impact on health.
It’s best not to give human food to pets at all, because lots of things such as onions, chocolate, raisins and some sweeteners are very toxic to animals. But even the foods that are not toxic can be a problem. What looks like a small amount to us, a 70kg human, can be like a whole meal to a cat or dog!
Do not feed table scraps to your dog or cat, especially if they are trying to lose weight. Begging is a difficult habit to break once it’s started.
Too many snacks can add up fast! Take a look at these treats and what it would mean in human terms.
- For a cat, a piece of cheese may seem like a little treat, but it's like a whole meal for cats.
- For a dog, a cookie or a piece of cheese may seem like a little treat, but it too is like a whole meal for dogs.
NOTE: If your veterinarian has suggested using cheese or another human snack to administer medicine, please be aware of the extra calories and account for it in your dog or cat's daily caloric intake. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions.
Tasty Tips
Reviewed by Dr. Hein Meyer, DVM, PhD, Dipl-ECVIM-CA and Dr. Emma Milne BVSc FRCVS
Related products
Mature Adult Wet Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Wet Cat Food Premium Chunks in Sauce with Chicken is a complete pet food for mature adult cats 7+ years old
Adult Wet Cat Food with Chicken
Tender chunks in gravy for cats, with high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle. With vitamin E and omega-3s & -6s for healthy skin and balanced minerals to support healthy vital organs.
Adult Wet Cat Food with Chicken
Tender chunks in gravy for cats, with high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle. With vitamin E and omega-3s & -6s for healthy skin and balanced minerals to support healthy vital organs.
Light Adult Wet Cat Food Chicken
Tender chicken chunks in gravy for cats, with L-carnitine and fewer calories for ideal weight management. Packed with high-quality protein, omega-6s, and vitamin E for shiny fur and healthy skin.
Related articles
Coronavirus, COVID-19 and Your Pet: What You Need to Know
Learn information about the family of coronaviruses in pets, including whether dogs & cats are susceptible to COVID19 and details about transmission.
Top Ten Tips To Help Neutering Your Pet Go Smoothly
Managing Pet Separation Anxiety When Returning to Work & School
When it's time to return to school or work full-time, learn helpful tips to avoid pet separation anxiety & help your dog or cat feel safe when you're gone.
Worried that neutering will change your pet?
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your pet on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your pet's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.