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

A packet of cat treats may seem easy to choose, until you consider moisture content, calories, ingredients and portion size. One cat may refuse a snack because it dislikes the texture, while another may only accept liquid cat treats. Products advertised with chicken are not always suitable for cats either: some items in search results are intended for dogs or even for human consumption.

This practical guide helps you focus on verifiable product information and avoid unsuitable purchases.

Common pitfalls when choosing cat treats

1. An appealing flavour name reveals little about the ingredients

“Chicken flavour” does not automatically mean that chicken is the main ingredient. Some crunchy cat treats are mainly made from grains, vegetable protein extracts and oils. Always check the ingredients list and see whether a percentage for chicken or meat is provided.

For example, Felix Crispies Beef & Chicken states that the product is flavoured with beef and chicken, with at least 1% of each ingredient. The snack also contains grains, as well as meat and animal derivatives. This may be a good fit for a cat that enjoys light, crunchy cat treats, but it is not the same as a snack made with chicken as its only ingredient.

2. “Hydrating” does not make a snack a replacement for water

Liquid cat treats often contain a high proportion of moisture. According to the product description, INABA Churu products contain approximately 90.5% to 91% moisture, while the INABA Fun Bites variants state 93%. This makes them practical as an additional source of moisture or as a topper, especially for cats that do not drink much.

Fresh drinking water is still essential, however. The hydration claim is based on the brand’s product information and should not be regarded as a medical effect or as a substitute for veterinary advice.

3. A multipack is not automatically better value

A cat treat multipack can be useful if your cat enjoys several flavours. However, check the number of portions, the weight per tube and the shelf life after opening. A large pack is less practical if your cat refuses one flavour or if opened portions are not used in time.

Important specifications to compare

Moisture content and format

Choose the format based on when and how you plan to use it:

  • Liquid cat treat: suitable for giving by hand, mixing into wet or dry food, or sometimes hiding medication. Always check that this is permitted according to the label.
  • Crunchy treat: ideal for cats that enjoy eating small pieces. Pay particular attention to calories and the recommended daily amount.
  • Soft strips or jerky: can be divided into smaller pieces, but check that the product is intended for cats.

A high moisture percentage is usually clearly listed under the analytical constituents. Compare this figure directly rather than relying solely on words such as “fresh” or “hydration”.

Calories and portion size

Low-calorie cat treats are often practical for daily rewards. INABA Churu product descriptions state 6 calories per tube. This is a verifiable product specification, but the total amount of treats should still be adjusted according to your cat’s main food, weight, age and activity level.

As a general rule of thumb, treats should not make up a large proportion of your cat’s daily energy intake. Felix Crispies, for example, states that snacks should account for no more than 10% of daily calorie intake. Adjust the main meal if you regularly give additional cat treats.

Ingredients and suitability

Check the following before buying:

  1. Does it clearly state “complementary pet food for cats”?
  2. Is the treat suitable for kittens, adult cats or all ages?
  3. Does the product contain grains, added sugars or artificial colourings?
  4. Are allergens and animal protein sources listed?
  5. Is the recommended portion clearly stated?

“Grain-free cat treats” may be worth considering if you deliberately want to avoid grains, but grain-free does not automatically mean low-calorie or nutritionally complete. A treat remains a supplement and does not replace complete cat food.

Our recommendations for different types of cat owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Crispies Cat Snack Beef & Chicken

Felix Crispies Cat Snack Beef & Chicken

Why it suits this profile: The small, light pieces are easy to portion as a daily cat treat. The packaging recommends a maximum of 12 grams or around 80 pieces per day for a cat weighing approximately 4 kg.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients and the proportion of beef and chicken are specified. This makes it clear that a flavour description does not mean the product has a high chicken content.

Key benefit & advantages

48-gram pack, crunchy texture and clear portion guidance for adult cats.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
INABA Churu Multipack Tuna & Chicken 50 pcs.

INABA Churu Multipack Tuna & Chicken 50 pcs.

Why it suits this profile: This large multipack contains 50 12-gram tubes and several chicken and fish combinations. It is intended for households that regularly give liquid treats.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states the number of tubes, the weight per tube and 91% moisture. This makes it easier to compare the contents and cost per use.

Key benefit & advantages

91% moisture, 6 calories per treat according to the product description, and suitable for use as a topper or reward.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
INABA CHURU CAT Chicken

INABA CHURU CAT Chicken

Why it suits this profile: The soft tube can be given by hand, mixed into food or, according to the product description, used to hide medication.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The feeding guidance is clearly stated: 1 to 2 sticks per day for adult cats. This helps prevent hand-feeding from increasing unnoticed.

Key benefit & advantages

90.5% moisture and 6 calories per treat according to the product information; refrigerate after opening and use within 24 hours.

Suitable for: Cats that accept a topper
Vitakraft Liquid Snack Chicken

Vitakraft Liquid Snack Chicken

Why it suits this profile: According to the product description, this liquid cat treat is suitable for cats from 3 months old and can be given as a snack, a topper or frozen as a treat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The usage limit of no more than 1 piece per day is stated. It also advises that any opened remainder should be refrigerated and used immediately.

Key benefit & advantages

Soft liquid texture, 15-gram portions and suitable for cats from 3 months old according to the label.

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.

Practical buying tips for your home

  • Check that the product is clearly labelled for cats, not dogs. According to the product descriptions, MeatyWay Chicken Tenders, Chicken and Apple, and similar variants in the range are intended for dogs.
  • Store opened liquid treats according to the packaging instructions. Many varieties need to be refrigerated and used within 24 hours.
  • Always provide fresh drinking water alongside cat treats for hydration.
  • Introduce a new flavour in a small amount. This helps you quickly find out whether your cat accepts the texture or ingredients.
  • Keep the main food complete and use treats only as a supplement, reward or meal topper.

Frequently asked questions about cat treats

Which cat treats are suitable for cats that do not drink much?

Liquid cat treats with a high stated moisture content can provide an additional source of moisture. INABA Churu and INABA Fun Bites provide approximately 90.5% to 93% moisture respectively. They do not replace drinking water. If your cat consistently drinks very little or shows other unusual behaviour, consult a vet.

How many cat treats can an adult cat have per day?

This depends on your cat’s weight, age, activity level and the calories provided by its main food. Follow the portion guidance on the packaging. With low-calorie varieties, each individual treat may contain fewer calories, but several treats still add up. Adjust the main meal if you give extra treats every day.

How long do opened liquid cat treats remain fresh?

This varies by brand and packaging. INABA Churu states that opened portions should be refrigerated and used within 24 hours. Vitakraft likewise advises refrigerating opened leftovers and using them immediately. Always check the label and seal the portion securely.