A bag of cat treats might seem simple to pick. Yet treats vary widely in composition, moisture content, calories and usage. A crunchy treat, for example, suits a reward moment, while a liquid cat treat can be more practical for a cat that doesn't drink much. If you only focus on flavour or packaging, you may end up paying for a product that doesn't quite match your cat's daily needs.
Most cat treats are complementary pet food. They are intended as a reward, a snack or a topping, and do not replace a complete meal. Always check the legal description and feeding guidelines on the packaging. A treat that looks appealing doesn't automatically contain all the nutrients your cat needs every day.
With liquid cat treats, the texture doesn't tell you everything. Look at the stated moisture content. INABA Churu Cat Tuna contains 91% moisture according to the product information, while various INABA broths and Fun Bites variants state 93% moisture. This makes these products practical as an extra hydration moment, but fresh drinking water should always be available.
A cat treat for hairballs or dental care cat treats may have a specific composition or texture, but they are no substitute for proper daily care. According to the product description of G'woon Anti-hairball, the treat is developed to help reduce hairballs. For Purina Dentalife, the product information mentions a designed crunchy and porous texture and a claim about tartar reduction; this is a claim from the brand and not a guarantee for every cat.
For cats that don't drink much, liquid cat treats or broths are a logical category to consider. INABA Broth Chicken with Salmon Recipe and INABA Broth Chicken with Tuna Recipe each state 93% moisture. Both start with chicken broth as the first ingredient, followed by chicken and fish.
A thicker treat, such as Churu, can be given straight from the pouch or mixed into dry or wet food. A crunchy treat, on the other hand, has a lower moisture content and can be stored for longer after opening, depending on the instructions on the packaging.
Don't just look at words like "chicken" or "fish" on the front. Check the ingredients list and pay attention to the order of ingredients. With a chicken cat treat, chicken broth may be the first ingredient, while a fish cat treat might list tuna or salmon as a clear protein source.
If your cat has a sensitive reaction to certain ingredients, choose a product with a straightforward composition and check the packaging for allergens. "Free from the 14 major EU allergens" does not mean that every individual cat will tolerate the product without issue.
Treats should be part of the total daily diet. Some products give a specific recommendation, such as one to two Churu sticks per day for adult cats. Whiskas Cat Sticks advises a maximum of one stick per day and, according to the product information, is not suitable for kittens. INABA Churu Cat Tuna states 6 calories per treat.
Adjust the main meal when you reward regularly. Also pay attention to the difference between cat treats for adult cats, treats for kittens and products suitable for all ages. The recommended amount also depends on weight, activity level and body condition.
Why this fits the profile: A recognisable crunchy treat with a soft filling for daily rewards. The pack contains 60 grams and is intended for adult cats.
The product information clearly states that it is complementary food for adult cats. The analytical composition and energy value of 411 kcal per 100g are available to help you weigh the portion.
Crunchy outside, soft filling and beef flavour. According to the product information, no artificial colours, preservatives or flavourings.
Why this fits the profile: Suitable for cat owners looking for variety. According to the product information, the set contains chicken, tuna, scallop and salmon.
The moisture content is clearly stated as 93%. This makes it easier to compare with other liquid cat treats.
93% moisture, 146g content and four flavour varieties. According to the usage instructions, can be given alone or mixed with food.
Why this fits the profile: For adult cats where the owner wants to combine a treat moment with a crunchy texture.
The product information mentions a daily maximum and advises supervision during eating. This keeps the portion controllable and does not attribute unlimited effectiveness to the texture.
Crunchy, porous treat with salmon flavour. According to the product information, contains 35% protein, 13.3% fat and added taurine.
Why this fits the profile: The soft stick can be used as a hand reward, a topping on food or an interactive treat moment.
The product description states 91% moisture, 6 calories per treat and a recommendation of one to two sticks per day for adult cats.
91% moisture, tuna as a protein source and suitable as a topping. Refrigerate after opening and use within 24 hours.
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.
Liquid cat treats and broths with a high moisture content can provide an extra hydration moment. INABA Broth Chicken with Tuna Recipe and INABA Fun Bites, for example, state 93% moisture. They do not replace drinking water and are complementary food.
A cat treat for hairballs may, according to the brand's product description, be formulated to help reduce hairballs. The effectiveness varies per cat and the treat does not replace regular grooming. Always follow the feeding guidelines and discuss persistent problems with a vet.
That depends on the product, weight, age and total diet. Check the label and keep treats limited to a small part of the daily calorie intake. Some products state one to two pieces per day, while other treats give a weight-dependent recommendation.