A Guide to Cat Treats in the UK: Top Recommendations

Finding the right cat treats can feel like a challenge. With so many options on the shelves, from crunchy biscuits to soft, lickable pastes, how do you choose something your feline friend will not only enjoy but that also fits their dietary needs? Whether you're training a new kitten, looking for a way to support your cat's dental health or simply want to share a special moment, the right treat can make all the difference.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the choices. We'll break down the different types of treats available, explain what to look for on the label and share some of our top recommendations to help you make an informed decision for your pet.

How to Choose the Right Cat Treats: A Quick Guide

Before you add anything to your basket, considering a few key factors can ensure you pick a suitable option.

1. Understand the Different Textures and Types

The world of cat treats extends far beyond simple biscuits. The main types you'll encounter include:

• Crunchy Cat Biscuits: These are perhaps the most common type. Their hard texture can provide a satisfying crunch and may offer a mild teeth-cleaning benefit through abrasion. They are often used for training or as a simple, everyday reward.
• Lickable Cat Treats: These come in sachets as a smooth purée or paste. They are excellent for cats who have trouble with hard food, for encouraging hydration or for interactive bonding as you can feed them directly from the sachet.
• Cat Dental Treats: These are specifically formulated with a shape and texture designed to help reduce plaque and tartar build-up as your cat chews. They are a functional treat aimed at supporting oral hygiene.

2. Check the Ingredients and Nutritional Value

A quick look at the packaging can tell you a lot. For owners seeking healthy cat treats, look for products with a clear ingredients list. Natural cat treats will typically be free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives.

Pay attention to the calorie count, especially if your cat is prone to weight gain. Many brands now offer low calorie cat treats, allowing you to reward your pet without disrupting their main diet. For younger pets, ensure the product is labelled as suitable for their age, as specific kitten treats are formulated for their developmental needs.

3. Consider the Purpose of the Treat

Why are you giving your cat a treat? The answer can guide your selection.

• For Training: Small, low-calorie treats are ideal so you can offer them frequently without overfeeding.
• For Dental Health: Look for specially designed dental chews or biscuits.
• For Relaxation: Some treats, often known as calming cat treats, contain ingredients like chamomile or L-tryptophan, which may help soothe anxious felines.
• For a Special Reward: A particularly flavourful or uniquely textured treat, like a lickable paste, can be reserved for special moments.

Top Cat Treat Recommendations

Here are a few popular and well-regarded options that cater to different needs and preferences.

Dreamies Cat Treat Biscuits with Tuna Flavour Mega Pack 200g

Why It Stands Out: As one of the most recognisable Dreamies cat treats on the market, these biscuits are known for their unique dual texture—a crunchy shell with a soft, flavourful centre. They are a classic choice for a daily reward.

Pros:

• Dual-texture design that many cats find appealing.
• Fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
• Contains no artificial flavours.
• Very low in calories, with just 2 kcal per treat.

Who is it for? Cat owners looking for a reliable, crowd-pleasing treat for everyday rewards and training. Their low-calorie nature makes them suitable for regular use, and they can be given to both adult cats and kittens over 8 weeks old in moderation.

Webbox Cats Delicious Mini Mix Cheese, Salami, Malt & Liver 16 Pieces

Why It Stands Out: This is a functional treat from Webbox cat treats that aims to do more than just taste good. It combines dental care benefits with a calming ingredient, making it a multi-purpose option for adult cats.

Pros:

• Designed to support dental health by helping to clean teeth and freshen breath.
• Contains chamomile extract (0.20%) to help promote calm behaviour.
• Low-fat recipe with natural ingredients.
• The fibrous texture encourages chewing to help reduce plaque.

Who is it for? Owners of adult cats (1+ years) who want a treat that serves a dual purpose. It's a practical choice for supporting daily dental hygiene while also being useful for cats who may experience mild stress.

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

Why It Stands Out: This lickable cat treat offers a different experience from traditional biscuits. Its soft, yoghurty texture is highly palatable and can be served in multiple ways, making it a versatile addition to your cat's routine.

Pros:

• Soft purée texture is ideal for older cats, kittens or those with sensitive teeth.
• Can be used as a standalone treat, a food topper or to help disguise medication.
• Free from added sugar, artificial preservatives and colours.
• Suitable for kittens from 12 weeks of age.

Who is it for? This treat is perfect for owners looking to bond with their cat through interactive feeding. It's also an excellent solution for picky eaters, senior cats or as a gentle and flavourful option for kitten treats.

Looking for a Different Flavour?

While the options above cover a range of needs, every cat has its own unique preferences. If your feline is particularly fond of savoury flavours, you might find the Webbox Mini Mix with its cheese and salami notes to be a hit. For even more choice, you can explore a wider selection of options.

Discover more cheese-flavoured cat treats in our collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many treats can I give my cat a day?

The general guideline is that treats should not make up more than 10% of your cat's total daily calorie intake. However, it's crucial to read the feeding guide on the product packaging. For example, the Dreamies packaging suggests up to 20 pieces per day for an adult cat, while the Webbox Mini Mix recommends 1-2 treats. Always ensure fresh water is available and adjust your cat's main meal accordingly to maintain a healthy weight.

Are cat dental treats effective?

Cat dental treats are designed to work through mechanical abrasion. As your cat chews on the treat, its fibrous or textured surface helps scrape away plaque and tartar from the teeth. While they can be a helpful part of a dental care routine, they are not a replacement for professional veterinary care, including regular dental check-ups.

What are the healthiest cat treats?

A "healthy" treat is one that complements your cat's diet without adding unnecessary fillers or calories. Look for natural cat treats with a high meat content, no added sugars and no artificial additives. Low calorie cat treats are an excellent choice for managing weight. Ultimately, the healthiest option will depend on your cat's specific age, health status and dietary needs.