Healthy Cats

Cat Health and Nutrition Guidance
At Treats on a Leash, we offer cat food and items for your kitty. Our variety of pet cat food can help remedy physical health problems for example, pet food allergies, GI concerns, urinary system health, weight management, grain sensitivities, and more.
Collapsible content
Food
How do you know your cat is getting the nutrition they really need?
You're bombarded with cat food commercials, each claiming that their product is superior than the others.
Your cat is a hunter, descended from a long line of hunters. Wild cats naturally ate a wide variety of nutritious food, based on what they could catch. But your domestic cat depends on you to feed them.
What Nutrients Does Your Cat Need?
For starters, your cat is a carnivore. They need meat in some form. This can be chicken, beef, lamb, fish, or eggs. They need fats to provide energy and help absorb vitamins like A, D, B1, B2, B3, and B6. Also, some cat foods include carbohydrates, which are digestible and provide energy.
Reading a Cat Food Label
Cat food companies are required to put specific information on their labels, such as ingredients in descending order of weight, and guaranteed analysis, which tells you the minimum and maximum amount of nutrients like fats, protein, and fiber.
Understand food descriptions. There's a big difference between "chicken cat food" and "cat food with chicken." Chicken cat food must be 95 percent chicken, while cat food with chicken can have as little as 3 percent. Food referred to as "chicken dinner" (or chicken formula) can be anywhere between 25 and 95 percent chicken.
Labels have feeding directions, but they're a guideline and not a "one size fits all." Your vet's recommendations takes priority.
Try to find the nutritional adequacy statement, which explains whether the food is intended for an adult cat or a kitten.
See our Resources blog for additional details, but here's a general list of the types of food to consider:
- Raw Food
- Canned Food
- Dry Food
- Freeze-Dried Food
- Grain-Free Food
- Wet Food
- Food Toppers
- Fermented Dairy
- Bone Broths
- Frozen Food
- Supplements and Vitamins
Treats
All of us like to see our cats happy, and it's exciting to give them something more than their normal diet.
Tips for Giving Cat Treats
There's no substitute for a regular diet of high-quality cat food. Don't replace meals with treats. Snacks should be a small part of their diet.
Be careful about giving them human food. It may be good for you, but it's not always best for cats. Our digestive systems and theirs aren't the same. While some foods, such as chicken, are beneficial for both of us, cats require a different combination of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Fortunately, Treats on a Leash has lots of tasty snacks made especially to complete our cats diet.
Don't feed them from the table or invite begging.
Offer an assortment. You don't always have the exact same snack, so why should your cat? There are crunchy treats and semi-soft treats. There are flavors cats love such as chicken, fish, and liver. Try to find a few that your favorite feline prefers.
Use treats as a reward, especially after they've shown patience while being brushed, having their nails trimmed, or taking medicine. Many people have even had great results training their kitties with treats!
If you have questions, ask us! Cat treat labels aren't subject to the same thoroughness as labels on normal cat food, and it's sometimes hard to tell the benefits of one treat compared to another. Every cat has different requirements, and we can suggest delicious and tempting snacks that are best for your pet.
See our Resources blog for additional details, but here's a general list of the types of treats:
- Catnip
- Soft Treats
- Biscuits and Crunchy Treats
- Freeze-Dried Treats
- Calming Treats
- Dental Treats
- Grain Free Treats
- Freeze-Dried Food
Bowls and Feeders
Show your cat just how much you love them by providing them with top quality food bowls and feeders from Treats on a Leash in Ames, IA. Your cat is a member of your family. You try to do everything you possibly can to better their quality of life and show them just how much you adore them. We take pride in providing a wide selection of cat bowls and feeders, enabling you to have several to decide from.
Food and water bowls are made of plastic, ceramic, and lightweight metals. You may even manage to find decorative bowls that have a design or your cat's name on them. At Treats on a Leash, you can find the type of bowl to fit your pet's needs. Cats are lively animals and can sometimes topple or spill their water and food bowls. Buying heavier bowls made of ceramic or metal may help prevent your cat from spilling their dinner and making a mess.
Feeders are also offered for cats who like to eat throughout the day. Having a feeder means that your cat always has a constant source of food and you aren't frequently having to fill their bowls. Depending on the measurements of the feeder and the amount of furry friends you have, filling the feeder keeps their food fresh and also keeps it without pests. Even though feeders carry a large amount of food and water, you should still check them every day and rinse out the water container daily to make sure your cats have the freshest water possible.
From kittens to older cats, you will be able to find the perfect size bowl to ensure your pet is getting the amount of food they require. Kittens will need a bowl with a lower edge that will enable them to be able to reach their food and water without falling in. Larger bowls are available if you have more than one furry friend in your home. The team at Treats on a Leash are available to help you find the right type of cat food bowls and feeders for your pets. Call (515) 233-4592 and talk with a team member if you have any questions.
Some great items and accessories to have on hand are:
- Food & Water Bowls
- Can Covers
- Collapsible Pet Bowls
- Feeders & Waterers
Toys
Cats are captivated by toys. If you were to close your eyes and think back on your happiest memories with your cat, chances are that the images that come to mind are your cat(s) playing. Hunting, attacking, overpowering, and hitting toys around provides cats and their people lots of joy - so why do cats so often ignore the toys we bring home for them?
There is one very simple rule to remember when buying toys for cats: cats want a variety of toys. They like a selection of interactive cat toys that use all of their hunting skills. If you have plenty of toys, you can rotate your cat's options so they can search for a beloved toy. Just don't hide a favorite toy away for good. Ensure your cats have chances to use all of their toys frequently.
What are the types of cat toys? Here are just a few:
Balls and chasers entice your cat to chase with feathers, fun noises, and unusual shapes.
Chew toys are a great option for cats that like to chew. They also help to keep your cat's breath fresh and their teeth clean.
Interactive and electronic toys bring out the best in your cat's hunting skills.
Plush and mice toys end up being cherished toys that can soothe and ease your cat when it's time to go into the carrier.
Scratcher posts and mats are a must for all ages of cats, from kitties to older cats.
Teasers and wands are great toys for sharing playtime with your cat.
Tunnels become the hiding places where you can quickly find your cat.
And variety packs help ensure your cat always has a fun toy.
Cats favor toys that are light and small enough to be whacked without a lot of effort. They also prefer toys that are small enough to be grasped. And their favorite toys are objects they can play with in multiple different ways.
When you are searching for toys for your cat, you need to make sure they don't have any strings that could be pulled off and swallowed. They need to be large enough that your cat won't try to eat them. They need to be made from non-toxic materials. Small button eyes and button noses are adorable, but anything that can be bitten off and swallowed is hazardous for your cat. Cats of all ages can be harmed by toys with sharp points and edges. At Treats on a Leash, we only supply toys that are safe for your cat.
You will find the toys your cat will love at Treats on a Leash in Ames, IA. We have a wide selection of toys to entertain every cat at prices that will excite you. Stop by today or call us with any questions.
Some great toy options to consider for cats are:
- Balls
- Plush Toys
- Cat Scratchers
- Chasers & Teasers
- Interactive Toys
- Catnip Toys
- Treat Dispensing Toys
Health and Wellness
The overall health and well-being of your cat must be a top priority. At Treats on a Leash in Ames, IA, you will find everything you need to keep your cat living his or her best life. It's up to you to make sure that they have everything they need to live happy and healthy life. Treats on a Leash carries health and wellness items that you can trust to keep your cat as healthy as possible.
Treats on a Leash sells various skincare products that keep your cat's coat glossy and their skin moisturized. The changing of the seasons can be tough on your cat's coat and skin. Using shampoos that keep the skin hydrated and the coat vibrant will help to minimize the itchiness that often goes along with dry skin.
When it comes to dealing with fleas and ticks, even inside cats should be protected. The team of Treats on a Leash can help you in purchasing the right flea and tick extraction products to make sure that your cat is always as relaxed as possible.
Supplements and vitamins are also necessary to maintain the health and wellness of your cat. We are happy to provide the best nutritional supplements and vitamins that are specifically developed for cats. Itis very important to keep in mind that your cat may not always get all of the nutrients they need from their cat food. Providing a supplement is an excellent way to ensure they get what they need on a daily basis.
At Treats on a Leash, your cat's health and wellness is a top priority. Your cat is an important member of your family and it's essential that they receive the care they need to remain healthy and active throughout their life. Call Treats on a Leash at (515) 233-4592 and speak with one of our team members. We can give you the answers you are looking for that will make taking care of your cat a breeze!
See our Resources blog for additional details, but here's a general list of the types of treats:
- Flea & Tick Treatments and Prevention
- Dental Care
- Skin Care
- Allergy Diets
- Kidney & Urinary
- Skin & Coat Care
- Supplement Oil
Litter Box and Accessories
Trying to keep your cat's litter box clean and smelling fresh is always a priority. Whether you have one cat or many, having the appropriate cat litter and litter box will save the day and control unwanted odors and messes. With help from Treats on a Leash, you can find what you need to manage to keep the odor and mess to a minimum.
When it pertains to cat litter, you can find litters that are environmentally friendly, scoopable, odorless, dust-free, and cost effective. Scooping your litter box a number of times a day maintains the box looking clean and helps prevent odors from taking over your home.
There are also several deodorizing sprays that can be used to keep your cat litter box smelling as new as possible at all times. Pet odors can take over a room if they aren't appropriately controlled. Using the deodorizing products in addition to the odor-control cat litter can keep litter box odors controlled.
If you live in or near Ames, IA, call (515) 233-4592 to speak to one of our friendly staff members. We can let you know what type of cat litter products and accessories we have on hand so that you can make your list before you leave home. You can also visit us and check out all of the items first-hand! With the right cat litter, box, and accessories, you can give your cat a comfortable area to do their business that is odor and mess-free!
Crates and Carriers
Anyone who has owned a cat knows they are finicky and really aren't pleased when their normal environment gets changed, even temporarily. And that happens immediately whenever a cat needs to be transported, for example, to the vet or on a trip. Fortunately, cat carriers and crates can at the very least make the task easier of transporting your feline friend, and cat carriers are extremely safe and comfortable as well.
Lots of Sizes and Shapes Offered
Wanting to know what size carriers come in? No problem. Cat carriers and crates are available in a number of sizes. So, if you just have a kitten that needs room to grow, or you have a cat the size of a medium dog, there are crates or carriers that will fit. They are all designed with a sturdy design, easy to clean surfaces and elements, and many have a matching pad style that can be inserted to make the ride even more comfy for your cat.
Everyone is welcome as a customer. Give us a call at (515) 233-4592 or come see us at 216 Main St and we can answer any questions you may have.
Leashes and Collars
Whether your cat is an indoor cat, outdoor cat, or both, it's very important that you have a leash and collar close at hand if you ever need to leave your home in a rush. Most cats have no use for taking walks, but getting them accustomed to a leash is still a good idea if you ever have to take them to the vet or on a long trip.
Size is a key variable when finding the right collar or harness. Cats come in all shapes and sizes. Some are all fur, while others carry a few extra pounds. It's important to find the right size collar or harness so that your cat is always as cozy as possible. At Treats on a Leash, the helpful staff can assist you in finding the right size collar or harness for your cat, regardless of its size or shape. With their insights and expertise, they can show you how to effectively place the collar or harness on your pet so that it fits snug but not uncomfortably.
Leashes are produced from a range of materials. Leather leashes are strong and durable. You can also find nylon-weave or braided leashes that are extremely lightweight and weather resistant. There are matching leash and collar/harness sets, or you can mix and match several colors and styles. You can find collars that are extremely decorative or you can choose one that is plain and simple.
Personalized ID tags are a great way to let the neighborhood know who your cat belongs to. You can get personalized ID tags in various shapes. You can pick a simple name tag, or have your cat's ID tag personalized with their name and your address. By attaching the ID tag to their collar, it will ensure that they find their way back home if the unthinkable happens and they get lost. Having a collar and ID tag for outside cats shows that they have a home and it may even stop them from being picked up as a stray.
When it's time to purchase a new lease or collar, call Treats on a Leash in Ames, IA. Our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
Clothing
Pampering your cat or kitten has never been easier or more affordable. Whether you take your cat with you when you visit the park or you let them lounge around at home, they should be given the chance to always look as cute and snuggly as possible.
Bow ties and neckties are a great way to make a statement if you are dressing up your cat for a family gathering or holiday get-together. The same holds true for bandanas and bows. Bandanas come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles so you can select the perfect one for your pet. All of the neckwear and bows come in a variety of solid colors and patterns so you can pick and choose from several for just the right look. With a selection of patterns and colors, your cat will have something to wear for every single season and holiday!
If you are looking for cat clothing and/or accessories, Treats on a Leash is here to help. No matter what your style, there is something for everyone. Choose a pattern or color and then accessorize with a collar and leash to match. The options are endless. Give us a call at (515) 233-4592 or come see us at 216 Main St.