Joybuy Insights

Cat Treats: How to Choose Rewards That Suit Your Feline

A treat can be used to reward good behaviour, to accompany a play session, or simply to create a little ritual with your cat. However, not all cat treats meet the same needs. Texture, age, ingredients, moisture content and daily quantity are all factors to consider.

The Joybuy selection is based on an objective reading of the information on the packaging, rather than relying solely on marketing promises.

The Pitfalls to Avoid Before Buying Cat Treats

1. Confusing Complementary Food with a Complete Meal

Most cat bites, sticks and liquid treats are complementary foods. They are therefore not a replacement for the main diet, which must remain suitable for the animal's nutritional needs.

Even a reward presented as high in protein or meat should be given in moderation. As a general rule, treats should not make up more than 10% of the daily food intake, unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer or recommended by a vet.

2. Relying Only on the Prominent Flavour

A mention like "with chicken" or "with salmon" does not necessarily mean that the ingredient in question is the main one in the recipe. Some chicken cat treats, for example, contain only 4% chicken. It is therefore better to check the ingredients list and the quantitative declaration, where available.

Taste obviously matters for your feline's preferences, but it is not enough to assess the quality or balance of the recipe.

3. Overlooking Texture and Storage Conditions

Dry treats are generally easier to store after opening, provided you reseal the packet properly. Moist products and hydrating cat treats require more care: after opening, several varieties need to be kept in the fridge and consumed within 24 hours.

For a cat that eats slowly, individual portions can help reduce waste. Conversely, a batch of cat treats in resealable pouches will suit a household that gives out rewards regularly.

The Criteria to Check on the Label

Recommended Age and Dietary Status

A treat intended for a kitten must clearly state the age from which it can be given. Some products are for adult cats only, while others are suitable from 2 months of age. The Catisfactions Salmon Treats for Cats and Kittens, for example, are suitable for adult cats and kittens from 2 months old, with a daily quantity adapted to each age group.

Conversely, the Whiskas Temptations Adult Cat Treats Chicken & Cheese are for adult cats only and are not suitable for kittens under 12 months.

Ingredients and Analytical Data

In particular, look at:

  • the proportion of the highlighted ingredients, such as chicken, duck or tuna;
  • the presence of cereals, starches, dairy products or vegetable derivatives;
  • the fat and moisture content;
  • the possible presence of added sugars, colourings or preservatives;
  • the mention "complementary food for cats".

Low-calorie treats can help you control portions better, but their energy value should always be considered alongside the feeding recommendations. Temptations state less than 2 kcal per bite, while some Churu products claim around 6 kcal per stick. These figures alone are not enough to determine your cat's total daily ration.

Moisture Content and Format

In the Catisfactions and Temptations examples, the dry treats have around 10% moisture. Depending on the product, liquid or gel formats can reach 85 to 93% moisture. They therefore offer a different texture and can be served on their own, mixed with food or used as a topping.

This is a water intake built into a reward, not a replacement for a bowl of fresh water. If your cat is on a special diet or has a health problem, ask your vet for advice.

Our Selection by Use

Recommended for: Beginners and Small Budgets
CATISFACTIONS Chicken Treats For Cats And Kittens - 60g

CATISFACTIONS Chicken Treats For Cats And Kittens - 60g

Why this choice suits this profile: At 60g, this size lets you try crunchy bites with a soft centre without investing in a large batch straight away. This product is for adult cats, while the salmon version in the range is suitable from 2 months.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states that it is a complementary food and recommends up to 12 bites per day for an adult cat, to be adjusted according to its profile.

Main advantage and key features

A crunchy and soft texture, 4% chicken stated in the ingredients, a 60g format and no artificial colourings or preservatives, according to the product page.

Recommended for: Premium Product Enthusiasts
INABA CHURU CAT Chicken

INABA CHURU CAT Chicken

Why this choice suits this profile: This purée stick is for those looking for a chicken reward, grain-free, with a lickable texture and high moisture content.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page details the analytical data, including 90.5% moisture and 0.5% fat, rather than relying solely on a texture promise.

Main advantage and key features

The ingredients state 30% chicken. The pack contains 4 sticks of 14g, grain-free, to be served on their own or as a topping.

Recommended for: Specific Uses and Frequent Treating
VITAKRAFT Cat Treats Poultry 270g

VITAKRAFT Cat Treats Poultry 270g

Why this choice suits this profile: At 270g, this size is ideal for households that give treats often or want to mix a liquid treat with dry food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The total quantity and liquid format make regular dosing easy. After opening, however, the product must be kept in the fridge and used within 24 to 48 hours.

Main advantage and key features

A stated moisture content of 85%, a 270g format, chicken flavour and the option to serve the product on its own or mixed with dry food.

Looking for other options?

We have compiled a comprehensive list, updated in real time, of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the requirements of European safety regulations.

How to Give Rewards Daily

To give cat rewards without unbalancing the diet:

  • reserve them for a specific behaviour or a calm moment;
  • count the bites, sticks and portions given throughout the day;
  • slightly reduce the main meal if treats become a habit;
  • always leave fresh, clean water available;
  • carefully reseal packets of dry treats and observe the storage time after opening;
  • stop your cat from chewing the packaging of liquid products.

If your cat is sensitive to certain ingredients, check the full ingredients list: cereals, dairy products, animal proteins and additives included. A "grain-free" recipe is not automatically suitable for all dietary restrictions.

FAQ on Cat Treats

How many treats can you give a cat?

The amount depends on the animal's weight, age, activity level and main diet. Manufacturers often state a daily limit on the packaging. In any case, treats should remain a supplement and make up a limited part of the total diet.

Are liquid cat treats suitable for kittens?

Some products are suitable for all ages, while others are for adult cats only. So always check the recommended age on the product page. For a kitten, choose a product that clearly states it can be used from that age.

How should you store bites and sticks after opening?

Dry bites should be stored in a cool, dry place, in a tightly sealed packet. Hydrating cat treats generally need to be kept in the fridge after opening and consumed quickly, often within 24 hours. The product label remains the reference to follow.