Joybuy Insights

Cat treats: how to choose a reward to suit your cat’s tastes and routine

A treat can reward good behaviour, add excitement to a play session or simply create a special moment together. But with so many claims on the packaging, it’s not always easy to tell whether a reward is genuinely suitable or simply impractical for everyday use.

Some cat treats combine several textures without clearly explaining what they’re intended for. Others highlight a flavour that turns out to make up only a small part of the recipe. And even products described as light can unbalance your cat’s diet if you don’t keep an eye on how much you give them.

Here are the main things to check before buying cat treats, along with a selection to suit different cats and occasions.

Common pitfalls when buying cat treats

1. Confusing complementary food with a complete meal

Most treats are complementary foods, so they can’t replace a complete and balanced main diet. Stick to the recommended quantities, and you may need to reduce your cat’s usual food slightly, especially if you’re giving creamy treats or treats several times a day.

2. Relying on the word ‘natural’ alone

The word ‘natural’ isn’t enough to judge a recipe. Take the time to check the ingredients list, recommended age, analytical constituents and whether it contains cereals, milk, fish or animal proteins. A grain-free recipe isn’t automatically suitable for every cat, particularly if they have a known food sensitivity.

3. Overlooking the texture and how the treats are given

Crunchy cat treats are especially well suited to chase games and treat-dispensing toys. Soft treats and creamy recipes are easier to give by hand, in a bowl or alongside a meal. The right choice depends as much on your cat’s preferences as on how you plan to use the treats.

What to check on the packaging

Your cat’s age and needs

For a kitten over 8 weeks old, choose a product that clearly states it’s suitable for kittens. Some products are for adult cats only, from 6 or 12 months of age. A neutered, inactive or weight-prone cat may also need more carefully measured portions.

Ingredients and flavour

Chicken cat treats and salmon cat treats offer different flavour profiles. However, check how much of the named ingredient is actually used in the recipe. Some products are labelled ‘with salmon’ but contain only 4% salmon, while others state that they contain 30% fresh salmon or a certain overall proportion of meat and fish.

For a grain-free recipe, look for an explicit claim and check which ingredients replace the grains, such as potato, peas or chickpeas. If your cat has an allergic or unusual reaction, stop giving them the treats and ask a vet for advice.

Daily portions and calories

Recommendations vary depending on your cat’s weight and the type of treat. For example, Edgard & Cooper pillows recommend a daily portion of 15 to 19 pieces for a 3 to 4 kg cat, while stating that treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily food intake. Some products contain less than 2 kcal per piece, but you still need to keep track of how many you give your cat throughout the day.

Always leave fresh water available. For creamy products, check the instructions for use after opening too: several individual sachets may need to be used within the same day.

Which treat is right for your cat?

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
PURINA FELIX Tasty Nuggets Cat Chicken & Duck 180g

PURINA FELIX Tasty Nuggets Cat Chicken & Duck 180g

Why this suits this type of cat owner : At 180 g, this pack is suitable for regular use. Its crunchy texture makes the bites easy to give during a play session or between meals.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states that these are complementary treats for adult cats and recommends around 30 pieces a day for a 4 kg cat.

Key benefits

19% chicken, 4% duck, an average of less than 2 kcal per bite and no added artificial colourants, according to the product details.

Recommended for : Fans of premium treats
Edgard & Cooper Cat Adult Pillows Salmon 60g

Edgard & Cooper Cat Adult Pillows Salmon 60g

Why this suits this type of cat owner : This recipe combines a crunchy outer layer with a soft centre, a contrast that cats who are sensitive to textures often enjoy.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details describe a recipe with no cereals or added sugar, and state that each treat contains less than 2 kcal.

Key benefits

14% fresh salmon, a 60 g pack, a detailed ingredients list and a resealable pouch to keep the treats crunchy.

Recommended for : Specific needs and frequent treat-givers
DENTALIFE Cat Food & Treat, Salmon 1, 40 g Sachet

DENTALIFE Cat Food & Treat, Salmon 1, 40 g Sachet

Why this suits this type of cat owner : Its porous, crunchy texture makes it suitable for regular treating, provided you keep an eye on your cat while they eat.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details give a recommended amount — 17 pieces a day for a 2.5 kg adult cat — and advise you to supervise your cat.

Key benefits

A crunchy texture, 4% dehydrated salmon protein, and stated calcium and taurine content.

Recommended for : Cats and kittens over 8 weeks old
CATISFACTIONS Cat Treats, Creamy Chicken, 4 Sachets, 10 g

CATISFACTIONS Cat Treats, Creamy Chicken, 4 Sachets, 10 g

Why this suits this type of cat owner : Individual sachets make it easy to measure portions, share by hand or add to wet or dry food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details state that this is a complementary food for cats from 8 weeks old and recommend using the sachet within the same day.

Key benefits

A purée texture, 4% chicken, 80% moisture and four 10 g sachets.

Looking for more options ?

We’ve brought together a comprehensive selection, updated in real time, of products that meet these strict criteria and European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about cat treats

How many treats can you give a cat each day?

It depends on your cat’s weight, age, activity level and the energy content of the product. As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily food intake. Always check the feeding guide on the packaging and reduce their main food if needed.

Are grain-free cat treats suitable for every cat?

No. ‘Grain-free’ describes one feature of a recipe, but it doesn’t guarantee that the food will suit every cat. Check the other ingredients, especially protein sources, peas, dairy products and additives. If your cat has a food sensitivity, it’s best to ask a vet for advice.

Do creamy treats provide enough hydration for a cat?

They often contain a lot of water, but they’re still complementary foods. They’re no substitute for fresh water or a suitable diet. Give them in the recommended portion and use opened sachets promptly, following the manufacturer’s instructions.