Joybuy Insights

Cat Treat Guide: Key Factors for Choosing the Right Treats

Giving your cat a treat is a shared moment of joy, a gesture of affection, or a well-deserved reward. But with shelves overflowing with promises, it's easy to fall into certain traps. Enticing packaging or a simple "chicken flavour" mention is no guarantee of a product suited to your companion's needs. Before making a purchase, it's best to understand the few pitfalls that can turn a good intention into a disappointing buy.

The first trap is the endless and opaque ingredient list. Many cat snacks contain a significant amount of grains (wheat, corn) or sugars. These act as low-cost binders or flavour enhancers but offer little nutritional value for an obligate carnivore like a cat.

The second pitfall involves vague marketing claims. Terms like "natural" or "gourmet" are not always governed by strict regulations. A product can be labelled "natural" while still containing low-quality by-products. The right reflex: don't stop at the slogans, but decode the actual composition.

Essential Criteria for a Healthy and Delicious Treat

To navigate the jungle of cat treats, you just need to keep a few key benchmarks in mind. These indicators will help you assess at a glance whether a product is truly right for your pet.

1. The Ingredient List: Meat First

The golden rule is simple: for a carnivore, the animal protein source must be at the top of the list. Whether it's chicken, salmon, beef, or duck, the main ingredient should be clearly identified and, ideally, its percentage specified. Be wary of generic phrasing like "meat and animal derivatives" without further detail. Quality natural cat treats are recognisable by their short and clear ingredient lists.

2. Analytical Constituents: What the Numbers Reveal

The table of analytical constituents may seem technical, but it is highly informative. Here are the points to check:

  • Crude protein: This is the number one criterion. A high level (generally above 25-30% for dry treats) indicates a good meat or fish content.
  • Crude fat: This is a source of energy and contributes to palatability. A level around 10-20% is common, but it should be adjusted if your cat is prone to weight gain.
  • Crude fibre: A low level (often below 2%) is preferable in a treat, as an excess can disrupt digestion.
  • Crude ash: This somewhat intimidating term refers to all the minerals. A rate that is too high can indicate the heavy use of carcasses or bones.

3. Texture and Format: For Every Need and Preference

The shape of the treat isn't just a matter of aesthetics. It serves very specific purposes:

  • Crunchy treats: They can contribute to oral hygiene by exerting a light mechanical action on dental plaque.
  • Soft or shredded treats: Easier to chew, they are well-suited for kittens or older cats with sensitive teeth.
  • Liquid cat treats: Presented in individual sachets, these cat snacks are perfect for strengthening your bond, helping to administer medication, or simply providing extra hydration. They can even be frozen in the summer to create a refreshing sorbet.

Our Top Cat Treat Picks

To help you see more clearly, we've matched owner profiles with products that tick all the boxes of the selection criteria discussed above.

IDEAL FOR: Budget-conscious variety seekers
Felix Party mix Cat Treats Picnic Mix 8*60G

Felix Party mix Cat Treats Picnic Mix 8*60G

Why it's a great match: This economical bundle of Felix Party Mix treats is a practical solution for those who want to treat their cat regularly without breaking the bank. The multipack format ensures a good stock, and the varied flavours (cheese, chicken, turkey) prevent your feline's discerning palate from getting bored.

How It Avoids the Pitfalls

Although it contains grains, the ingredient list places "meat and animal derivatives" first (35%), and the analytical composition shows a crude protein level of 36%, which is quite respectable for this price range.

Pros & Key Features

Excellent value for money. Contains vitamins and omega-6 fatty acids. The bundle format is convenient for frequent use.

IDEAL FOR: The ingredient purist
Sheba Filets Les Effilés de Poulet Cat Treats - 60g

Sheba Filets Shredded Chicken Cat Treats - 60g

Why it's a great match: For owners who scrutinise labels and prefer clean recipes, these shredded chicken treats are the perfect option. The composition is exceptionally clear, making it a high-quality reward for all cats, including the most sensitive ones.

How It Avoids the Pitfalls

This product is the antithesis of long ingredient lists. With only two components (chicken fillets 37%, tapioca starch), there is no room for sugars, grains, or artificial additives.

Pros & Key Features

Ultra-simple and transparent composition. High moisture content (84%) contributes to hydration. Tender texture ideal for all ages.

IDEAL FOR: Those who love to surprise their cat
Vitakraft Liquid Snack Duck with Beta-Glucans Cat Treats

Vitakraft Liquid Snack Duck & Beta-Glucans

Why it's a great match: For those who love to innovate and share an interactive experience with their cat, this liquid cat treat is perfect. It can be given directly from the sachet, on a plate, or even frozen for a "cat ice cream" in the summer. It's a playful way to vary their pleasures.

How It Avoids the Pitfalls

This product stands out from classic dry treats, which are often high in grains. Its liquid formula is low in calories and its composition, while containing by-products, specifies the presence of duck (4%) and beta-glucans to support the immune system.

Pros & Key Features

Highly palatable and versatile liquid format (can be frozen). Low in calories. Contributes to hydration with its 88.5% moisture content.

Looking for more options?

We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet our quality criteria and current regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many treats can I give my cat per day?

The watchword is moderation. Treats are a complementary food and should not replace your cat's main meal. As a general rule, they should not account for more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. Most manufacturers provide a recommendation on the packaging (e.g., "up to 13g or about 35 pieces per day for a 4kg adult cat"). Remember to adjust their kibble portion on days you give them treats.

Are dog treats dangerous for cats?

It is strongly discouraged to regularly give dog treats to a cat. While a small stolen piece is generally not toxic, the nutritional needs of dogs and cats are very different. Cats have specific requirements, including a higher need for protein and taurine, an essential amino acid they cannot synthesise. Dog treats, like Pedigree Schmackos, are formulated for canines and do not meet these needs. It's best to stick to products specifically designed for cats.

How should I store cat treats after opening the package?

To preserve their freshness, crunch, and flavour, the best practice is to seal the bag tightly after each use. Most packaging today comes with a resealable zip. Store the package in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. For single-serving wet or liquid treats, they should be consumed quickly after opening, usually within 24 to 48 hours, and stored in the refrigerator.