As cat owners, we often look for ways to strengthen the bond with our feline companions while supporting their health and wellbeing. Lickable cat treats, also known as cat puree treats, have become a popular choice for doing just that. These soft, moist treats are not only a delightful indulgence but can also serve as a functional supplement to your cat's diet, helping with everything from hydration to hairball control.
Navigating the growing market for these treats can be a challenge. This guide is designed to help you understand what to look for and to present some carefully selected options that cater to specific feline needs.
When selecting a treat, it's helpful to look beyond the packaging. Here are a few practical points to consider to ensure you're choosing a suitable option for your cat.
A high-quality treat should have a clear and understandable ingredient list. Look for recipes where a named protein source, like salmon or tuna, is listed first. Many owners prefer grain-free cat treats to avoid common fillers that can be difficult for some cats to digest. Opting for natural cat treats formulated without artificial colours, flavours or preservatives ensures you are giving your cat a pure and simple snack.
One of the main advantages of modern cat treat sticks is their ability to deliver targeted nutritional support.
The creamy texture of lickable purees makes them incredibly versatile. They are excellent hydrating cat treats due to their high moisture content, which is particularly useful for cats that don't drink enough water. You can serve them directly from the tube as a bonding activity, or use them as a cat food topper to entice a picky eater to finish their meal.
Here are our recommendations for lickable cat treats, chosen to address common health considerations for UK cat owners.
Why It Stands Out: This formula from a trusted Canadian cat brand is specifically designed to support skin and coat health. The primary ingredients, salmon and tuna, are natural sources of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy skin barrier. The addition of egg yolk provides lecithin, which supports skin hydration and contributes to a glossy finish.
The recipe is grain-free and contains no artificial additives, making it a pure and simple option. With a moisture content of up to 85%, it also serves as an excellent source of supplementary hydration.
Pros:
Who is it for? This treat is ideal for cat owners looking to improve the condition and appearance of their cat's coat, especially for those with dull fur or dry skin.
Why It Stands Out: Formulated to assist with a common feline issue, these tuna cat treats are designed for hairball control. The recipe includes barley grass and flax seeds, which provide natural dietary fibre to support healthy gut motility and help hair pass through the digestive system more easily.
This is a very clean formula, free from grains, gums and artificial flavours, making it suitable for cats with sensitive stomachs. The smooth, lickable texture is highly palatable, and its primary ingredient is pure tuna.
Pros:
Who is it for? A great choice for long-haired cat breeds or any cat prone to developing hairballs. It is also a good option for owners seeking a simple, pure-ingredient treat.
Why It Stands Out: This treat focuses on proactive joint care. It combines a base of tuna with functional ingredients known for their role in supporting joint health: green-lipped mussel powder and MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane). These components work together to support cartilage health and joint mobility.
Like the other recommendations, this is a grain-free formula without artificial additives, ensuring it is gentle on your cat's system. Its targeted ingredients make it a thoughtful choice for supporting your cat's active lifestyle as they age.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is particularly well-suited for senior cats, larger breeds or highly active cats who may benefit from additional joint and mobility support.
Many cats have a distinct preference for the rich flavour of tuna. If your feline friend is a tuna enthusiast, or if you are looking for other functional formulas with a tuna base, there are many more options to explore.
Discover a wider selection of meals and treats in our tuna cat food category.
1. How often can I give my cat lickable treats? Lickable purees are complementary treats and should not replace your cat's main, balanced diet. A general guideline is to limit treats to no more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. For most adult cats, this equates to about 1–3 treat sticks per day, but always check the feeding recommendations on the package and adjust based on your cat's age, weight and activity level.
2. Are lickable cat treats a good way to hydrate my cat? Yes, they are an excellent tool for supplementary hydration. With a moisture content often exceeding 80%, these hydrating cat treats can help increase your cat's overall water intake. This is especially beneficial for cats that primarily eat dry food or are reluctant to drink from a water bowl.
3. Can I use these treats as a cat food topper? Absolutely. Using a lickable treat as a cat food topper is a popular way to enhance the palatability of your cat's regular meals. Squeezing a small amount over their dry kibble can encourage picky eaters and add a boost of flavour, moisture and functional nutrients to their diet.