Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat food and treats without unnecessary waste

Cats can be fussy, but packaging can also be misleading. A striking flavour name, for example, says little about nutritional value. And a large bag may seem like good value until your cat refuses to eat it or the food quickly loses its freshness after opening.

When choosing cat food and treats, watch out for these three common pitfalls:

  • Mistaking a treat for a complete meal. Cat treats and liquid cat treats are usually complementary food. They do not replace complete cat food.
  • Relying solely on the flavour name. “With salmon” or “with chicken” does not automatically mean that the ingredient makes up a large proportion of the product. Check the ingredients and percentages on the label.
  • Buying packaging that does not suit your cat’s consumption. A cat food multipack is convenient for households with several cats, while smaller portions are more practical if your cat eats slowly or needs a variety of flavours.

Which specifications are important?

1. Check the age range and food category

First choose between kitten food, adult cat food and food for senior cats. Kittens have different nutritional needs from adult cats. The packaging should clearly state which life stage the product is intended for.

Also check whether it is complete food or complementary food. Wet food such as Whiskas Adult Wet Cat 1+ and Felix Delicious Fish Strips in Sauce is described in the product information as complete food for adult cats. Felix Crispies, Catisfactions and DentaLife, on the other hand, are treats or complementary food. Give these products alongside the main meal and adjust the amount of main food accordingly.

2. Compare moisture, energy and portion size

Wet cat food generally contains a high proportion of moisture. This can suit cats that do not drink much by themselves, but moisture content alone does not indicate quality. Compare the protein, fat and energy content as well.

For example, according to the product information, Whiskas Adult in sauce contains 84,5% moisture and 61 kcal per 85-gram portion. The recommended amount for your cat will then depend on its weight, age and activity level. A neutered cat may need a different portion from an active outdoor cat.

Dry cat food is easy to measure out and store. A 2 kg bag, such as g'woon Adult Cat Bites with Fish, can be convenient for everyday use. Store dry food in an airtight container and check that the nutritional analysis on the packaging suits your cat.

3. Read the ingredients and storage instructions

A product name containing “chicken”, “salmon” or “beef” may sometimes refer to only a small percentage of that ingredient. For example, Felix Crispies Salmon & Trout lists 0,4% salmon meal and 0,4% trout meal. This makes it suitable as a snack with that flavour, but not as a replacement for a complete fish-based meal.

Also pay attention to:

  • the recommended daily amount;
  • the number of calories per treat or portion;
  • allergens and animal protein sources;
  • the shelf life after opening;
  • the correct storage temperature.

After opening, store wet food in sauce in the fridge and keep it sealed, following the label instructions. Several products recommend using leftovers within around two days. With treats, resealing the packaging is important for maintaining texture and flavour.

Recommended choices for different types of cat owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Whiskas Adult Wet Cat 1+ Food Mixed Selection in Sauce 12x85g

Whiskas Adult Wet Cat 1+ Food Mixed Selection in Sauce 12x85g

Why it suits this profile: A multipack with different flavours and 85-gram portions is a straightforward choice for anyone looking to buy their first supply of adult cat food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that this is complete food for cats over one year old. The portions make leftovers and overfeeding easier to manage.

Main benefit & key advantages

12 pouches of 85 grams, several meat flavours and 84,5% moisture according to the product details.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
Gourmet Perle Mini Fillets Chicken Rabbit Beef Salmon Cat Food

Gourmet Perle Mini Fillets - Chicken, Rabbit, Beef & Salmon Cat Food

Why it suits this profile: For cat owners who value variety in texture and flavour and want to order a larger supply.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The multipack contains individual 85-gram pouches, so you do not have to keep a large opened pack in storage each time.

Main benefit & key advantages

60 pouches, four varieties and, according to the product information, 80% moisture, 12,5% protein and 2,5% fat.

Suitable for: Specific needs & intensive users
Purina Dentalife Denta Care Snacks Cat Snack Salmon 40g

Purina Dentalife Denta Care Snacks - Salmon 40g

Why it suits this profile: For adult cat owners who want to combine a regular treat routine with attention to chewing.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to Purina’s own research, a reduction in tartar is listed as a product claim. Do not regard this as a replacement for veterinary checks or care.

Main benefit & key advantages

Salmon variety, 35% protein, 13,3% fat and a recommended maximum amount based on body weight.

Suitable for: Cats that need extra variety
Vitakraft Liquid Snack Chicken Cat Treats 6 x 15g

Vitakraft Liquid Snack Chicken - 6 x 15g

Why it suits this profile: A liquid cat treat is suitable as a topping, a separate reward or a chilled treat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Each portion is individually packaged, and the product information recommends a maximum of one piece per day. It remains complementary food, not a main meal.

Main benefit & key advantages

Six 15-gram portions, suitable from three months of age and ideal as a topping or frozen treat.

Looking for more options?

We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about cat food and treats

Is wet cat food better than dry food?

Not automatically. Wet food generally contains more moisture and is often available in small portions. Dry food is practical to store and measure out. The right choice depends on your cat’s age, condition, preferences and nutritional needs. Always check whether the product is complete food.

How many treats can a cat have per day?

Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging and adjust the main meal accordingly. As a general practical guideline, treats are often considered best kept to a maximum of around 10% of the daily energy intake. For kittens, overweight cats or animals with a medical condition, it is sensible to consult a vet.

How should I store opened cat food?

Keep opened wet food sealed in the fridge and use it within the period stated on the label, often within two days. Dry food and cat treats stay usable for longer when you close the packaging properly after each use and store it somewhere cool and dry. Throw food away if its smell, colour or texture changes noticeably.