Choosing the right treat for your cat can feel overwhelming. The aisles are filled with countless options, each promising to be the one your feline friend will love most. As a cat owner, you want to offer something delicious that also aligns with their health needs, whether that's for training, dental care or simply a moment of bonding.
This guide is designed to help you navigate the choices. We will look at what makes a good treat, highlight a few standout options for different needs and provide practical advice to help you make a confident decision for your pet.
Before picking a packet off the shelf, a little consideration can go a long way. Focusing on your cat's specific needs will help you find a treat that is both enjoyable and beneficial.
Not all treats serve the same function. Identifying your primary goal will narrow down the options considerably.
The composition of a treat is just as important as its taste. A quick look at the ingredients can tell you a lot about its quality. Look for a clearly named protein source, such as chicken or salmon, listed high up. While many cats digest grains perfectly well, a grain-free option may be preferable for those with known sensitivities. The key is to choose treats with ingredients that you recognise and feel good about giving to your pet.
Here are a few recommendations that cater to different preferences and needs, selected for their ingredient quality and specific benefits.
Why It Stands Out: The dual-texture format—crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside—is famously popular with cats. At less than 2 kcal per treat, they are a great option for frequent rewarding without significantly impacting your cat's daily calorie count.
Pros:
Who is it for: Cat owners looking for a classic, widely-loved and low-calorie reward for training or everyday bonding.
Why It Stands Out: These are the definition of simple, healthy cat treats. Made from 100% chicken breast and nothing else, they are freeze-dried to lock in flavour and nutrients. This single-ingredient approach is ideal for owners who want to avoid artificial additives, grains and unnecessary fillers.
Pros:
Who is it for: Health-conscious owners who prioritise pure, natural cat treats for their pets, especially those with dietary sensitivities or who follow a limited-ingredient diet.
Why It Stands Out: These treats combine a daily reward with functional oral care. Their unique, porous texture is designed to surround the tooth during chewing, helping to clean even hard-to-reach areas. According to the manufacturer, their formulation is scientifically designed to help reduce tartar build-up.
Pros:
Who is it for: Owners looking for a multi-purpose treat that provides both enjoyment and a practical benefit by contributing to their cat's dental health routine.
The right treat depends entirely on your cat's individual taste and health profile. If these selections aren't quite what you're looking for, there are many other excellent choices available.
For a wider selection of functional, natural and everyday rewards, feel free to browse our complete collection of cat treats.
Explore All Cat Treats on Joybuy.co.uk
A general guideline is that treats should not make up more than 10% of your cat's total daily calorie intake. The exact number of treats depends on the specific product's calorie content and your cat's size, age and activity level. Always check the feeding guide on the packaging and adjust your cat's main meals accordingly to maintain a healthy weight.
Not necessarily. While grain free cat treats are essential for cats with a diagnosed grain allergy or sensitivity, most cats can digest grains without any issues. The choice often comes down to owner preference. The most important factor is a balanced diet with high-quality, digestible ingredients, whether they include grains or not.
It depends on the treat. Some are suitable for all life stages, but it's often best to choose kitten treats specifically. These are typically smaller in size to suit their mouths and may be formulated to support their growth. Always check the product's packaging for age recommendations before giving a new treat to a kitten.