Treats are more than just snacks; they are vital for training, bonding, and even dental health. This guide explores the best cat treats on the market, focusing on nutrition, flavor, and value to help you find the perfect reward for your feline friend. Selecting the right snack can be overwhelming, but this comprehensive review of top-rated treats will help you make informed, healthy choices for your pet.
Types of Cat Treats
Crunchy Treats
Characteristics:
- Dry, biscuit-like texture with low moisture
- Long shelf life and often lower in calories
- Designed to support dental health
Best For:
- Daily rewards and budget-conscious owners
Soft and Moist Treats
Characteristics:
- Strong, enticing aroma and easy to chew
- Shorter shelf life once opened
Best For:
- Picky eaters, senior cats, and high-value rewards
Freeze-Dried Treats
Characteristics:
- Usually single-ingredient with minimal processing
- High palatability and protein content
Best For:
- Health-conscious owners and cats on limited-ingredient diets
Dental Treats
Characteristics:
- Designed to reduce tartar and plaque
- Often carry the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal
Best For:
- Maintaining oral hygiene between brushings
Top Product Reviews
Best Overall: Greenies Feline Dental Treats
Product: Greenies Feline Oven Roasted Chicken
- Key Features: VOHC-accepted, 1.25 calories per treat, and made in the USA.
- Performance: High palatability and excellent dental benefits.
- Price: $3–$5 for 2.1 oz.
Best Premium: PureBites Freeze-Dried Treats
Product: PureBites Freeze-Dried Chicken Breast
- Key Features: 100% chicken breast, human-grade, and grain-free.
- Performance: Superior nutrition and simple ingredients.
- Price: $8–$12 for 1.09 oz.
Best Budget: Temptations Classic Cat Treats
Product: Temptations Classic Crunchy & Soft
- Key Features: Under 2 calories per treat with a unique dual texture.
- Performance: Outstanding value and a favorite for most cats.
- Price: $2–$4 for 3 oz.
Best for Training: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wild Treats
Product: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Soft-Moist Salmon
- Key Features: Real salmon is the first ingredient; grain-free recipe.
- Performance: Perfect size for repetitive rewarding during clicker training.
- Price: $4–$6 for 2 oz.
Best for Seniors: Hartz Delectables Lickable Treats
Product: Delectables Stew Lickable Treat
- Key Features: Wet, lickable texture that boosts hydration.
- Performance: Ideal for seniors with dental issues or low appetite.
- Price: $1–$2 per pouch.
Nutritional Guidelines
The 10% Rule
Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. An average 10 lb cat needs roughly 200–250 calories daily, meaning treat calories should stay under 25 per day.
Ingredient Quality: What to Look For
- Named meat sources (e.g., chicken, salmon)
- No artificial colors (Red 40, Yellow 5)
- Avoid "meat by-products" or BHT/BHA preservatives
Special Purpose Treats
Pill Pockets
Greenies Pill Pockets are the gold standard for concealing oral medications. Their malleable texture masks the scent and taste of pills effectively.
Calming and Hairball Support
- Calming Treats: Contain L-theanine or chamomile to reduce anxiety.
- Hairball Treats: Use natural fibers like cellulose to aid digestion.
DIY Homemade Cat Treats
You can create healthy snacks at home using simple ingredients like canned tuna (in water) or ground chicken mixed with an egg. Always ensure meats are cooked thoroughly and avoid toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, or xylitol.
Storage and Safety
To maintain freshness, store treats in a cool, dry place and keep bags tightly sealed. Always supervise your pet during treat time to prevent choking and ensure they have access to fresh water.
Choosing the right treat involves balancing nutrition, purpose, and palatability. Whether you opt for Greenies for dental health or PureBites for raw nutrition, moderation is key to maintaining a healthy weight. Always consult your vet if your cat has specific dietary restrictions.