Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat treats: how to find the right treat for your cat

A bag of cat treats may seem easy to choose. However, cat treats vary considerably in ingredients, texture, moisture content, portion size and suitability. For example, a crunchy treat for an adult cat is not automatically suitable for a kitten. A liquid treat can be useful if your cat does not drink much, but it is still an additional treat and not a replacement for cat food.

Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer helps you look beyond marketing claims. Pay particular attention to what is actually stated on the label: the animal species, age, ingredients, analytical constituents, feeding instructions and storage advice.

Three common mistakes when buying cat treats

1. Mistaking a flavour name for a high proportion of that ingredient

Packaging featuring “salmon”, “tuna” or “chicken” on the front does not necessarily mean that the product consists mainly of that ingredient. Check the ingredients list and the percentages. For example, Felix Crispies Salmon & Trout lists 0.4% salmon meal and 0.4% trout meal. The treat is therefore a fish variety, but its base consists partly of cereals and vegetable protein extracts.

According to the product information, Whiskas Cat Sticks Salmon contains 50% salmon within the fish ingredients. This is a different type of product specification from simply stating “salmon flavour”.

2. Treating an additional snack as complete cat food

Most cat treats are complementary pet food. They are intended as a reward or extra, not as a daily main meal. According to the product information, Gourmet Gold Tender Treats with chicken or sea fish is instead complete cat food for adult cats. This makes it functionally different from products such as Catisfactions or Felix Crispies.

So check the legal description on the packaging. If it says “complementary”, adjust the main meal according to the feeding instructions.

3. Underestimating the portion and shelf life

Small cat treats may seem harmless, but several treats a day can increase your cat’s total calorie intake. Catisfactions states that each piece contains fewer than 2 calories, while Whiskas sticks contain approximately 351 to 359 kcal per 100 grams. Give treats according to the instructions and reduce the amount of main food if advised.

For soft and liquid cat treats, also check how long they can be kept after opening. INABA Churu and INABA Fun Bites advise storing opened portions in the fridge and using them within 24 hours.

Important specifications to check

Texture: crunchy, soft or liquid

  • Crunchy cat treats such as Felix Crispies and Catisfactions are convenient to give by hand or use in a food puzzle.
  • Soft cat treats such as Whiskas Cat Sticks are easy to break into smaller pieces.
  • Liquid cat treats such as INABA Churu, Felix Deli Moments and Vitakraft Liquid Snack can be given on their own, as a topping or chilled, depending on the product instructions.

Your cat’s preference is important here. A cat that leaves hard biscuits may find a creamy or soft texture more appealing.

Moisture content and when to use them

INABA Churu Cat Tuna lists a moisture content of 91%. The INABA Fun Bites varieties with chicken, tuna, salmon or cheese list 93% moisture. This makes these products suitable as moist treats or toppings. According to the product information, they are not a complete meal and fresh drinking water should always be available.

A high moisture content does not automatically indicate that a product is suitable for every cat. Also check the fat, protein, portion size and age guidance.

Age, ingredients and allergens

Felix Crispies, Felix Party Mix and many Whiskas treats are clearly labelled for adult cats. According to the product information, Catisfactions Cheese and Salmon are suitable for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks of age. Whiskas Cat Sticks, on the other hand, are not suitable for kittens.

For a sensitive cat, check the full ingredients list on the packaging. A statement such as “without the 14 major EU allergens” is product information, but it does not rule out individual sensitivities. If you have concerns about your cat’s diet or intolerance, it is sensible to consult a vet.

Recommended cat treats by usage profile

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Catisfactions Cat Treats Cheese Flavour 60g

Catisfactions Cat Treats Cheese Flavour 60g

Why it suits this profile: An accessible choice for anyone looking for a small pack with a familiar texture. According to the product information, the treat is suitable for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks of age.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that each piece contains fewer than 2 calories and gives a clear storage period after opening.

Main benefit & advantages

Crunchy outside, soft cheese filling, and no artificial colourings, preservatives or flavourings according to the product description.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
INABA Churu Cat Tuna

INABA Churu Cat Tuna

Why it suits this profile: For cat owners looking for a liquid cat treat with a high moisture content and a clearly defined portion per stick.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The label states 91% moisture, 6 calories per treat and 1 to 2 sticks per day for adult cats.

Main benefit & advantages

Tuna variety, suitable for giving by hand or as a topping. Refrigerate after opening and use within 24 hours.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent treat-givers
Whiskas Cat Sticks Salmon 3x6g

Whiskas Cat Sticks Salmon 3×6g

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for adult cats that enjoy a soft stick as a reward and whose owner wants to be able to divide the portion.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to the product information, the stick can be broken into smaller pieces and the recommended amount is no more than one per day.

Main benefit & advantages

50% salmon within the stated fish ingredients, 33% protein and a soft texture. Not suitable for kittens.

Suitable for: Cats that enjoy crunchy textures
Felix Crispies Cat Snack Salmon and Trout 45g

Felix Crispies Cat Snack Salmon & Trout 45g

Why it suits this profile: A practical option for adult cats that enjoy light, crunchy pieces during short reward sessions.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states a daily upper limit of 12 grams, or around 80 pieces for an adult cat weighing 4 kg.

Main benefit & advantages

Light, airy texture, star and moon shapes, 31.5% protein and 15.5% fat according to the analytical constituents.

Looking for more options?

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

Storing and portioning cat treats

Store dry cat treats in a cool, dry place and keep the packaging tightly sealed. According to the product information, Catisfactions advises closing the packaging securely after opening and using it within the stated period. Liquid treats should generally be refrigerated after opening. Always check the packaging, as instructions may vary from one product to another.

Give treats as an addition to cat food and take your cat’s age, weight and activity level into account. If your cat is overweight, following a diet or has a known food sensitivity, a smaller portion or consultation with a vet is advisable.

Frequently asked questions about cat treats

What cat treats are suitable for adult cats?

That depends on the desired texture and when you plan to use them. Felix Crispies and Felix Party Mix are crunchy options for adult cats. Whiskas Cat Sticks are soft treats that can be broken into pieces. Always check that the packaging says “for adult cats” and follow the daily feeding instructions.

Are liquid cat treats hydrating?

Liquid cat treats often contain a lot of moisture. INABA Churu lists 91% moisture and INABA Fun Bites 93%. You can give them as a treat or topping, but they do not replace complete cat food or access to fresh drinking water.

How often can a cat have cat treats?

Follow the portion stated on the packaging and adjust the main meal if necessary. Some products recommend a maximum of one stick or sachet per day; the stated maximum is higher for Catisfactions. The right amount depends on your cat’s total diet, weight and activity level.