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Choosing cat treats: how to find the right reward without falling into marketing traps

Cat treats are handy as a reward, a snack between meals or a little moment of indulgence. Yet the range can quickly start to look much the same. An eye-catching flavour name does not necessarily tell you how much chicken, salmon or cheese the product actually contains. A large pack may also seem better value, even though your cat barely eats the treats or the contents quickly lose their freshness once opened.

With these checks, you can compare cat treats using information that can be verified on the packaging and product page. This makes it easier to choose between crunchy cat treats, soft cat treats, natural cat treats and a multipack of cat treats.

Three common pitfalls when choosing cat treats

1. A flavour name does not automatically mean a high proportion of that ingredient

“With chicken”, “salmon”, “cheese” or “beef” sounds clear enough, but the percentage may be limited. According to the product composition, Felix Crispies Salmon & Trout contains, among other ingredients, cereals, meat and animal derivatives, plus 0.4% salmon meal and 0.4% trout meal. So this is a fish-flavoured variety, but it is not the same as a treat made exclusively from fish.

Always check:

  • the full ingredients list;
  • the stated percentage of the ingredients that define the flavour;
  • whether the product is single-protein;
  • the analytical constituents, such as protein and fat.

2. “Light” or “natural” does not tell the whole story

Catisfactions states fewer than 2 calories per piece for several varieties. This helps you plan portions, but it does not mean you can give them without limits. They are still complementary food, so the main meal needs to be adjusted.

The difference in recipes is even greater with natural cat treats. According to the product information, the MjAMjAM Snack-Box Exquisite Ostrich Fillet consists of 100% ostrich fillet. This is a clearly defined composition, but the product also contains 37.6% fat, according to the analytical data. “Natural” is therefore no substitute for checking the nutritional values.

3. A multipack is only good value if your cat accepts the treats

A larger pack or multipack of cat treats often reduces the price per gram, but you should also consider:

  • how long the treats keep once opened;
  • whether the packaging can be sealed properly;
  • the recommended daily amount;
  • your cat’s preference for a particular texture or flavour.

For example, Catisfactions Cheese Maxipack 180 g states an energy value of 416 kcal per 100 grams and recommends a maximum of 20 pieces per day for adult cats. A larger bag therefore requires clear portion control.

Important criteria for comparing cat treats

1. Age and suitability

Not every cat treat is suitable for every cat. According to the product information, Catisfactions varieties are intended for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks of age. Felix Crispies are described as complementary food for adult cats.

According to the product information provided, Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken and Beef are not suitable for kittens. Always check the intended age group on the label before buying, particularly if you have a kitten.

2. Ingredients and protein source

If ingredients matter to you, you can choose between blended treats and a single-protein variety. According to the product specifications, the MjAMjAM Snack-Box Select Chicken Stomachs contains 100% chicken stomach and is grain-free, gluten-free and sugar-free. This suits shoppers specifically looking for grain-free cat treats or a snack with a single animal protein source.

Felix Crispies Beef & Chicken contains, among other ingredients, cereals, meat and animal derivatives, and vegetable protein extracts. The flavour description states a minimum of 1% beef and 1% chicken. This may suit a cat that mainly enjoys a light, crunchy texture, but it is less suitable for someone looking exclusively for one clearly defined protein source.

3. Texture and portion size

Crunchy cat treats are practical to give by hand or use in a food puzzle. Felix Crispies are light and crispy. Catisfactions combine a crunchy exterior with a soft, creamy filling.

Soft treats, such as a breakable stick, are useful when you want to give small portions. According to the product information, Whiskas Cat Sticks are easy to break into pieces. The recommended amount is a maximum of one stick per day for adult cats. Give treats as a supplement and do not let them replace your cat’s complete main diet.

Recommended choices for different types of cat owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Catisfactions cat treat cheese maxipack 180 g

Catisfactions Cat Treat Cheese Maxipack 180 g

Why it suits this profile: The 180-gram pack is practical for regular use, and the treats have a familiar two-layer texture: crunchy on the outside and soft inside.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information states the portion size, energy value and storage method. This makes it easier to weigh up the price of a maxipack against how much you are likely to use.

Key benefit & advantages

180 g contents; maximum of 20 pieces per day for adult cats; 416 kcal per 100 g.

Suitable for: Shoppers looking for premium quality
MjAMjAM Snack-Box Exquisite Ostrich Fillet

MjAMjAM Snack-Box Exquisite Ostrich Fillet 40 g x 5

Why it suits this profile: This option is aimed at shoppers who prefer a short ingredients list: according to the product description, the treat consists of 100% ostrich fillet.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The composition is clearly stated and, according to the product information, contains no cereals, gluten or added sugar. Always check the current label if your cat has specific sensitivities.

Key benefit & advantages

Single-protein; grain-free and gluten-free; 5 snack boxes of 40 g.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent treat-givers
Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken Flavor

Whiskas Cat Sticks Chicken Flavor 3x6 g

Why it suits this profile: The sticks are easy to break into smaller pieces, making them useful for several small reward moments.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging clearly states a maximum of one stick per day and indicates that the product is not suitable for kittens.

Key benefit & advantages

3 sticks of 6 g; 80% meat according to the product specifications; chicken variety with a breakable texture.

Other popular options to compare

For a light treat with fish, take a look at Felix Crispies Cat Snack Salmon & Trout 45 g. The star- and moon-shaped pieces are intended for adult cats and contain 31.5% protein and 15.5% fat, according to the product information.

If your cat prefers a creamy centre, compare Catisfactions Cat Treats Salmon Flavor 60 g with the cheese variety. According to the information provided, both are suitable for adult cats and kittens from 8 weeks of age. For variety, there are also Felix Partymix Original and Felix Partymix Seaside Mix.

Take extra care with claims such as “with salmon” or “with beef”. According to Felix’s own product information, the stated fish or meat content may be limited. Assess the treat based on its full composition, rather than just the front of the packaging.

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.

Frequently asked questions about cat treats

How many cat treats can a cat have per day?

First, follow the feeding guidance on the packaging. As a general guideline, treats should provide no more than around 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake. Reduce the main meal when you give additional treats. The right amount depends on your cat’s weight, age and activity level.

Are cat treats suitable for kittens?

Some cat treats are suitable from 8 weeks of age, including several Catisfactions varieties. Other products, including the Whiskas Cat Sticks mentioned above, are not suitable for kittens. Always check the stated age range and give small portions under supervision.

How should you store cat treats after opening?

Store dry cat treats in a cool, dry place and seal the bag securely. For several packs, Catisfactions recommends using the contents within four weeks. According to the product information, Whiskas Cat Sticks should be used within one day of opening. The instructions on the current packaging take precedence.