Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat food and cat treats: a practical guide for every cat

Cat food and cat treats might seem simple to choose, but packaging can be confusing. An appealing flavour name, for example, tells you little about the nutritional value. Likewise, a treat isn’t automatically suitable as a main meal. If you only look at the discount, the brand or a promising claim, you can quickly end up buying too much of the wrong type of product.

Three common pitfalls with cat food and treats

1. Confusing a treat with complete nutrition

First, check whether the packaging says complete food or complementary food. Complete food for adult cats is intended as a meal within the stated feeding guidelines. Cat treats, liquid cat snacks and chews are usually complementary. They should not replace the main meal.

An example is Felix Deli Moments Salmon: according to the product information, this is a complementary wet treat for adult and senior cats. The recommended amount is one 10g pouch per day, and the main meal should be adjusted accordingly.

2. Only looking at the flavour

Cat food with salmon, chicken or beef sounds appealing, but you should also check the ingredients. In some products, the named ingredient is only part of the overall recipe. Felix Original Mix Selection in Jelly, for instance, contains varieties with beef, chicken, tuna and salmon; for each variety, the proportion of the named ingredient is stated on the label.

The same applies to Whiskas cat treats. The chicken, beef and salmon varieties each have their own composition and nutritional values. So compare the protein content, fat content, moisture content and the recommended portion.

3. Taking a health claim as a guarantee

Claims about dental care, hydration or nutritional benefits need to be read carefully. According to Purina’s own information, DentaLife is designed with a crunchy, porous texture that may help reduce tartar build-up. That is a product claim from the brand, not a substitute for daily care or veterinary advice.

Even a treat with a high moisture content is not automatically a complete meal. According to the product specification, INABA Fun Bites Cat Chicken Wraps Tuna with Cheese contains 93% moisture and is intended as a complementary treat, topper or hydration aid.

What to look for in cat food and cat treats

1. Life stage and suitability

Choose a product that suits your cat’s age:

  • Kittens: check the minimum age. According to the product information, Catisfactions Cat Treats Salmon Flavor is suitable from 8 weeks. Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken Flavor, on the other hand, is not suitable for kittens.
  • Adult cats: many wet foods and treats are specifically labelled for adult cats.
  • Senior cats: look for the mention on the label. According to the product description, Felix Deli Moments Salmon is suitable for adult and senior cats.
  • Neutered cats: some complete foods explicitly mention this target group, but always check the feeding guideline and energy content.

2. Complete food or complementary product

With wet cat food, check whether the product is described as complete food. Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly, Felix Original Mix Selection in Jelly, Whiskas Adult Wet Cat 1+ Food and Gourmet Gold Cat Food Tender Treats with Chicken are all described as complete food for adult cats in the product information provided.

Cat kibble can also be complete food, but in this selection the focus is on wet food and treats. Give treats alongside the daily food and adjust the main meal when advised on the packaging.

3. Portion, packaging and storage

A large pack isn’t always better value if your cat doesn’t like a particular variety. Pay attention to:

  • the number of pouches, tins or portions;
  • the recommended daily amount;
  • the shelf life after opening;
  • refrigeration and sealing;
  • the energy content per 100g or per portion.

According to the product information, opened Felix wet food should be stored in the fridge and used within 24 hours. For Gourmet Gold and Whiskas, a storage period of up to 48 hours is stated. Always follow the label on the packaging you receive.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly Wet Cat Food 44x85g

Felix Every Day Party Mix Selection in Jelly Wet Cat Food 44x85g

Why this fits the profile: The multipack contains 44 portions of 85g with different flavours and is practical for households that regularly serve wet food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states that it is complete food for adult cats. The portions reduce waste and make dosing straightforward.

Key benefit & highlights

44 individual pouches, multiple flavours and a portion size of 85g. According to the product information, suitable for adult cats.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking top quality
Gourmet Gold Cat Food Tender Treats with Chicken 85g

Gourmet Gold Cat Food Tender Treats with Chicken 85g

Why this fits the profile: This wet food has a soft texture and is intended as a complete meal for adult cats that prefer small portions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information distinguishes between a complete meal and a treat. The feeding guideline recommends three tins per day for an average 4kg cat.

Key benefit & highlights

85g per tin, tender pieces and 13.5% protein according to the product specification.

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

Purina Dentalife Denta Care Snacks - Cat Snack - Salmon 40g

Why this fits the profile: An option for adult cat owners who want to combine a treat moment with attention to feline dental care.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging clearly states that it is a treat for adult cats. According to Purina’s own information, the texture is developed for daily dental care; supervise your cat while giving it.

Key benefit & highlights

Salmon variety, 35% protein and calcium and taurine according to the product specification.

Combining treats and toys

A treat isn’t the only way to keep your cat entertained. With cat toys such as the Meowmagic Feather and Sisal Ball Toy Pack of 4, you can encourage hunting behaviour without extra calories. Check toys regularly and replace them when feathers come loose or sisal frays. Always use a teaser wand under supervision.

For an extra treat moment, options include:

  • Felix Crispies Cat Snack Salmon & Trout: light, crunchy treats for adult cats; a maximum of 12g per day according to the product information.
  • Whiskas Cat Sticks: varieties with chicken, beef and salmon; usually a maximum of one stick per day and not suitable for kittens.
  • Catisfactions Salmon: crunchy cat treats with a soft filling, suitable for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks according to the product description.
  • Felix Deli Moments Salmon: a liquid cat treat of 10g for an interactive moment.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a full, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and comply with current European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about cat food and cat treats

Is wet cat food better than cat kibble?

Not automatically. First, check whether the product is complete and suits your cat’s age and condition. Wet food generally contains a lot of moisture, while kibble has a different texture and storage method. A combination can be practical, as long as the total daily amount is correct.

How many cat treats can a cat have per day?

Follow the guideline on the packaging and adjust the main meal. As a general rule of thumb, treats should only provide a limited part of the daily energy intake. The exact amount depends on weight, age, activity level and the type of treat.

How long does opened cat food keep?

This varies by product. Some opened portions must be used within 24 hours, while other products can be stored in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Seal any leftovers, put them straight in the fridge and always check the packaging.