Choosing cat treats: check the ingredients, portions and the right size

Buying a bag of cat treats seems simple, until you have to choose between cat biscuits, soft cat treats, crunchy bites, cat sticks and multipacks. The packaging often highlights flavour, shape or an appealing nutritional claim. That does not always tell you enough about the ingredients, portion size or whether the product is suitable for your cat.

With these practical checks, you can compare cat treats using the information found on the label. This helps you avoid paying too much for a small pack, choosing a treat that is unsuitable for a kitten or unknowingly adding too many extra calories.

Three common pitfalls when choosing cat treats

1. A flavour name does not tell you how much of that ingredient it contains

“Chicken”, “salmon” or “cheese” on the front does not automatically mean that the product mainly consists of that ingredient. So check the ingredients and any stated percentages. For example, some cat treats containing fish list a relatively low proportion of fish or fishmeal, while the packaging mainly emphasises the flavour.

The same applies to cat treats containing cheese. A product may contain milk or cheese powder without cheese being the main ingredient. That does not necessarily present a problem, but it does help you assess the price and ingredients fairly.

2. “Light” or “small” does not automatically mean low in calories

A small treat can still count towards your cat’s daily food intake. Check the nutritional value per 100 grams and, where available, the energy per piece. According to the product information, various Catisfactions varieties contain fewer than 2 calories per piece. That makes portion control easier, but they are still complementary food.

Ideally, give treats within a set daily calorie budget. Reduce the amount of main food when the nutritional information recommends this. For cats that do not get much exercise, regularly giving extra food can quickly become noticeable in their overall diet.

3. A large multipack is not always better value

A cat treat multipack or maxipack can be convenient for households where a treat is given every day. However, check the best-before date, closure and recommended portion. A large pack that remains open for a long time may lose its flavour and texture.

Also check the quantity in each bag or box. Six packs of 180 grams are very different from one 180-gram bag. Calculate the price based on the total quantity and make sure your cat actually enjoys the flavour before buying in bulk.

Which specifications are important?

1. Age and animal type

First check whether the treat is intended for adult cats, kittens from 8 weeks old or both. According to the product description, Catisfactions Cheese Flavor 60g is suitable as complementary food for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks old. Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken Flavor 3x6g, on the other hand, is not suitable for kittens according to the stated product information.

A kitten also has different nutritional needs from an adult cat. Never use a treat as a substitute for a complete meal, and always follow the age and feeding instructions on the packaging.

2. Ingredients and texture

The ingredients list provides more information than the product name. Pay attention to the order of the ingredients, the proportion of animal-derived ingredients and any cereals, sugars or milk products. If your cat has a known sensitivity, it is wise to check the full ingredients list and allergen information.

The texture determines how you can use the treat:

• Crunchy cat treats are useful as a small reward or for spreading around a food puzzle.
• Soft cat treats and fillings are often practical for cats that prefer a different texture.
• Cat sticks can usually be broken into smaller pieces, but they are not suitable for cats of every age.
• Dried or freeze-dried treats, such as 100% chicken gizzards, often have a simpler composition but can be relatively concentrated per 100 grams.

3. Portion, energy and storage

Clear feeding instructions make daily use easier. For example, Felix Crispies Salmon & Trout states a maximum of 12 grams or approximately 80 pieces per day for an adult cat weighing 4 kg. Felix Party Mix Seaside Mix lists a maximum of 13 grams or approximately 35 pieces for a similar adult weight.

Store opened cat treats in a cool, dry place and seal the packaging securely. The recommended period after opening varies by product. So always check the label and best-before date on the packaging.

Our recommendations for different types of cat owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners

Catisfactions Cat Treats Cheese Flavor 60g

Why it suits this profile: A small pack is ideal for finding out whether your cat accepts the combination of a crunchy outside and soft cheese filling.

How this product avoids the pitfall

You do not have to buy a large multipack straight away. According to the product information, each treat contains fewer than 2 calories and the product is intended as complementary food.

Key benefit & advantages

60 grams; cheese variety; suitable for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks old according to the product description.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality

MjAMjAM Snack-Box Select Chicken Stomachs 35g x 5

Why it suits this profile: This treat is ideal for buyers looking for a short ingredients list rather than a blended bite made with multiple ingredients.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients list states 100% chicken gizzards. This makes the main ingredient immediately clear; however, always check the current label.

Key benefit & advantages

Five 35-gram bags; grain-free and gluten-free according to the product information; single-protein composition.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent treat-givers

Catisfactions Cat Snack Cheese Maxipack 6 x 180 g

Why it suits this profile: A large pack is ideal for households that regularly give cheese-flavoured treats and can store their supplies properly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states a maximum of 20 pieces per day for adult cats and recommends adjusting the main meal accordingly.

Key benefit & advantages

Six packs of 180 grams; crunchy outside and soft centre according to the product description.

Frequently asked questions about cat treats

How many cat treats can a cat have per day?

This varies depending on the product, weight, age and activity level. Follow the feeding instructions on the packaging and keep treats limited as complementary food. For some varieties, Felix states a maximum in grams and number of pieces for a cat weighing approximately 4 kg. Also adjust the main meal when this is recommended on the label.

Are cat treats suitable for kittens?

Some cat treats are suitable for kittens from 8 weeks old, including several Catisfactions varieties according to the product information. Other products, including the Whiskas Cat Sticks mentioned above, are not suitable for kittens. So always check the intended age group on the packaging and give small portions.

How should you store cat treats after opening?

Store them in a cool, dry place, seal the bag or packaging securely and follow the stated best-before period or recommended period after opening. Some products state that they should be used within four weeks of opening; other treats may have a shorter period. Always use the current instructions on the label as your guide.