Cat Treats in the UK: A Guide to Top Recommendations

As a cat owner, you know that a well-timed treat can be a wonderful way to bond with your feline friend, reward good behaviour or simply show them some affection. But with so many options on the shelves, from crunchy biscuits to soft sticks, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. You want something your cat will love, but you also want to ensure it aligns with a healthy lifestyle.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the world of cat treats. We will explore the different types available, offer practical tips for selecting a suitable option and share some of our top recommendations for 2026 to help you make an informed choice for your pet.

How to Choose the Right Cat Treats

Finding a treat that is both delicious and appropriate for your cat involves looking beyond the packaging. Here are a few key factors to consider during your search.

1. Consider the Texture and Type

Cats can have strong preferences when it comes to the texture of their food. The main types of treats include:

• Crunchy Treats: These are often small, biscuit-like treats. Many cats enjoy the crunchy texture, and some are designed to help with dental cleaning.
• Soft and Chewy Treats: These are pliable and easier to eat, making them a good option for older cats or those with sensitive teeth.
• Liquid and Lickable Treats: Often sold in sachets, these liquid cat treats can be served on their own or as a tasty topper on dry food. Their high moisture content is an added bonus.

2. Check the Label for Health Benefits

Many modern treats offer more than just a tasty reward. When reading the label, look for features that match your cat's needs:

• Low Calorie Cat Treats: If you treat your cat frequently or are managing their weight, look for options with a low calorie count per treat. The packaging often states this clearly, for example, "less than 2 kcal per piece."
• Dental Cat Treats: Some treats are specifically formulated with a porous or abrasive texture to help reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar as your cat chews.
• Grain-Free Cat Treats: For cats with sensitivities or specific dietary plans, a grain-free recipe can be a suitable choice. These treats use alternative ingredients for carbohydrates and structure.

3. Factor in Your Cat's Age

A cat's nutritional needs change as they grow. It is important to choose an age-appropriate treat. Kitten treats are typically smaller and formulated to support their development, while adult treats are designed for the needs of a fully grown cat. Always check the packaging for the recommended age range.

Our Recommended Cat Treats

Here are a few popular and well-regarded options that cater to different preferences and needs. All of these feature chicken, a flavour that is a firm favourite with many felines.

Dreamies with Tasty Chicken 200g

Why It Stands Out: Dreamies are a household name for a reason. Their unique dual-texture, with a crunchy shell and a soft centre, is highly appealing to many cats. They are a simple, effective and widely loved reward.

Pros:

• Dual-texture: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside.
• Low calorie: Contains less than 2 kcal per treat, making them suitable for regular treating.
• Nutrient-fortified: Contains added vitamins and minerals.
• Resealable pack: The 200g bag keeps the treats fresh.

Who is it for?: Ideal for cat owners looking for a classic, affordable and low-calorie reward that appeals to the majority of adult cats and kittens over 8 weeks.

Dreamies Meaty Sticks Adult Cat Treats with Tasty Chicken 30g

Why It Stands Out: These meaty sticks offer a completely different experience from traditional biscuits. With a high meat content and a soft, chewy texture, they provide a more substantial and savoury snack.

Pros:

• High meat content: Made with 90% meat and animal derivatives, including 26% chicken.
• Grain-free recipe: A great option for cats on a grain-free diet.
• Soft texture: Easy to chew and can be broken into smaller pieces.
• Individually wrapped: Each stick is sealed for maximum freshness.

Who is it for?: Perfect for owners whose cats prefer a soft, meaty treat. It is also a good choice for those seeking a grain-free cat treat for their adult cat.

Webbox Lick-e-Lix with Chicken Tasty Yoghurty Treat 5 x 15g

Why It Stands Out: This is a uniquely versatile liquid cat treat. The smooth, yoghurt-like texture can be served straight from the sachet, squeezed over food to entice fussy eaters or even used to help disguise medication.

Pros:

• Versatile use: Can be used as a treat, a food topper or a way to administer crushed tablets.
• Kitten-friendly: Suitable for cats and kittens from 12 weeks of age.
• No added sugar: A healthier formulation without unnecessary sugars or artificial preservatives.
• High moisture content: Contributes to your cat's daily water intake.

Who is it for?: An excellent choice for owners of picky eaters, older cats with dental problems or those looking for a hydrating and multi-purpose treat for both cats and kittens.

Dentalife Daily Oral Care Treats with Tasty Chicken 40g

Why It Stands Out: This treat is designed with a specific function in mind: dental health. According to the manufacturer, its scientifically designed porous texture helps clean teeth as the cat chews, reaching even the difficult-to-access areas to reduce tartar buildup.

Pros:

• Designed for dental care: Features a unique, porous texture for effective cleaning.
• Nutrient-enriched: Contains calcium and taurine to support overall health.
• No added artificial colourants: A more natural formulation.
• Scientifically developed: The brand states the product is proven to reduce tartar buildup.

Who is it for?: For the health-conscious owner who wants to provide a daily treat that also actively supports their adult cat's oral hygiene.

Looking for More Options?

While chicken cat treats are a popular choice, every cat has its own unique taste. If you are looking for different flavours like salmon, duck or cheese, or want to explore a wider variety of brands and textures, there are many more choices available.

Discover more options by browsing our full range of Cat Treats with Chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Treats

1. How many treats can I give my cat each day? A general guideline is that treats should not make up more than 10% of your cat's total daily calorie intake. Always check the feeding guide on the product packaging for specific recommendations. When you give treats, it is good practice to slightly reduce the portion of their main meal to prevent weight gain.

2. Are grain-free cat treats a better choice for cats? For cats with a diagnosed grain allergy or sensitivity, grain-free cat treats are an excellent choice to avoid digestive upset. However, most cats can digest grains perfectly well. Grains are not inherently bad and can provide useful nutrients. The decision to choose grain-free should be based on your individual cat's health and dietary needs.

3. Can kittens eat the same treats as adult cats? Not always. Kittens have different nutritional requirements and smaller mouths. It is best to choose treats specifically formulated for them, often labelled as kitten treats. Always check the packaging for the minimum age, which is often around 8 to 12 weeks.