Joybuy Insights

Choosing cat treats: a practical guide to flavour, purpose and nutritional values

A cat may get excited about almost any packet of cat treats. But that reaction tells you little about whether a treat is suitable for everyday use. The right choice depends on your cat’s age, the texture and ingredients, portion size and when you plan to give it.

The most common buying mistakes come down to three pitfalls:

  • Mistaking an appealing flavour for a complete meal. Most cat treats are complementary feed and are not a substitute for a complete main diet.
  • Taking marketing claims at face value without checking the ingredients list. Words such as “natural”, “with fish” or “for dental care” don’t automatically tell you how much of an ingredient is included or exactly what the product does.
  • Underestimating portion size. A small treat may seem harmless, but several treats a day all contribute to your cat’s total energy intake.

What should you look for in cat treats?

1. Check whether it’s complementary feed or complete food

The label will tell you whether you’re buying complementary pet food or complete food. Cat treats, sticks and soft snacks are usually complementary feed. Give them alongside your cat’s usual meal and adjust the main food if needed.

Various products have a clear daily limit for adult cats. For example, Whiskas Cat Sticks recommends no more than one stick a day. The manufacturer also states that this variety isn’t suitable for kittens. Always check the packaging, as nutritional values and feeding advice can vary by flavour.

2. Consider moisture, texture and energy

A soft treat is handy for cats who prefer moist food, for calm moments together or for hiding a small amount of medication. When choosing a hydrating cat treat, check the moisture content. The INABA Fun Bites varieties list 93% moisture in the product information. This makes them a handy, moisture-rich treat, but fresh drinking water should always be available.

Dry cat treats are easier to store and are often suitable for occasional use. However, a crunchy texture doesn’t automatically mean a treat cleans your cat’s teeth. For dental care cat treats, check the specific feeding advice and the manufacturer’s evidence. According to Purina’s product information, Dentalife’s porous texture was developed for daily dental care. Treat this as a product feature, not a substitute for a vet’s check-up or care.

3. Match the flavour and size to how you’ll use it

Small, breakable or individually wrapped portions are handy for training. Cat treats for training should be quick to give, without your cat needing to chew for long. Soft varieties are often more convenient than large, hard chunks.

For fish cat treats, you can choose from flavours such as tuna and salmon. Cats who prefer poultry may respond better to chicken cat treats. If your cat has allergies or sensitivities, check the full ingredients list rather than relying only on the flavour shown on the front of the pack.

Our picks for different types of cat owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Felix Partymix Original Cat Snack 200g

Felix Partymix Original Cat Snack 200g

Why it suits this profile: A 200-gram bag offers a handy supply for owners who want to try different shapes and flavours with their adult cats.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states that this is complementary feed for adult cats. This makes it clear that you should plan portions alongside your cat’s main meal.

Key benefit & highlights

200-gram pack; a variety of flavours, shapes and textures; intended for adult cats.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
INABA Fun Bites Cat Chicken Wraps Tuna

INABA Fun Bites Cat Chicken Wraps Tuna

Why it suits this profile: A good choice if you’re looking for a soft treat with several textures for bonding, rewarding your cat or hiding a small amount of medication.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product is described as complementary feed and comes with separate portion instructions. This helps you give it more thoughtfully alongside your cat’s main food.

Key benefit & highlights

56% moisture according to the product description; 20.4 kcal per pouch; eight individually wrapped 12-gram portions.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
Purina Dentalife Denta Care Snacks Cat Salmon 40g

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

Why it suits this profile: For owners of adult cats who want to build a regular treat routine around daily dental care.

How this product avoids the pitfall

According to Purina’s product information, the treat was developed with a crunchy, porous texture. The label also gives clear daily guidance and recommends supervising your cat while they eat.

Key benefit & highlights

Crunchy texture; salmon variety; recommendation of 17 treats a day for a 2.5 kg cat; calcium and taurine listed in the product specifications.

Suitable for: Training sessions with adult cats
Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken Flavor 3x6g

Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken Flavor 3x6g

Why it suits this profile: The sticks are easy to break into smaller pieces, so you can divide one portion into several short rewards.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information recommends no more than one stick a day, alongside adjusting your cat’s main meal. This helps stop training rewards from adding up without you realising.

Key benefit & highlights

Chicken flavour; 3 sticks of 6 grams; easy to break; 41% crude protein according to the product information.

Looking for more options?

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

Frequently asked questions about cat treats

How many cat treats can you give a cat each day?

It depends on the product, your cat’s weight, age and activity level. Follow the feeding advice on the packaging and make sure treats don’t displace your cat’s main food. For high-calorie sticks, one may already be the recommended daily portion. Always provide fresh drinking water.

Are soft cat treats suitable for training?

Yes, soft treats are often quick and easy to give, and can be divided into small portions. Check that the treat is suitable for your cat’s age. Not every treat designed for adult cats is suitable for kittens.

Do dental care cat treats help prevent dental problems?

According to manufacturers’ product information, a specific shape and texture can contribute to daily dental care. This doesn’t guarantee that dental problems will be prevented or resolved. Follow the recommended amount, stay with your cat while they eat and ask a vet for advice if you’re unsure.