Joybuy Insights

Cat treats: how to choose the right rewards for your companion

A treat can extend playtime, make training easier or simply add a little variety to your cat’s daily routine. But the packaging alone is not enough to make the right choice. Between flavour claims, multipacks and information that can sometimes be hard to spot, certain mistakes can lead to an unsuitable purchase or overfeeding.

Here are the key points to check before choosing cat treats, snacks or wet food for your pet.

Common pitfalls when buying

1. Confusing treats with complete food

A reward, soft bite or liquid snack is generally a complementary food. Even when it contains vitamins, minerals or taurine, it does not replace a complete diet.

By contrast, cat pâté and wet food labelled ‘complete food’ are designed to contribute to your cat’s daily diet, in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. Always check the product’s legal classification before ordering.

2. Relying solely on the advertised flavour

The wording ‘with chicken’ or ‘with salmon’ does not necessarily mean that the ingredient is present in the largest proportion. To find out, check the ingredients list. For example, the chicken Catisfactions contain 4% chicken, while the salmon recipe lists 4% salmon.

This information makes it easier to compare chicken cat treats and salmon cat treats objectively, particularly if your pet has a strong preference for a particular flavour.

3. Overlooking how much is actually being given

A small bite may seem low in calories, but repeated treats throughout the day can soon add up. Recommendations should be adapted to your cat’s weight, age, activity level and main diet. If rewards become frequent, slightly reduce their usual portion to avoid overfeeding.

Criteria to consider before choosing

Clear ingredients and a suitable category

Start by distinguishing between three uses:

  • Dry rewards: crunchy on the outside and sometimes soft in the centre, they are easy to store in a resealable pouch.
  • Soft cat bites: their supple texture may suit cats that prefer less dry food. They can also be used occasionally to conceal a tablet, when appropriate.
  • Liquid cat snacks: high in moisture, they can be served alone or mixed with dry food, according to the product instructions.

For a kitten, always check the recommended minimum age. Salmon Catisfactions are suitable for cats and kittens from 2 months, while the chicken Catisfactions featured here are intended for adult cats. A kitten treat should therefore not be chosen solely on the basis of its flavour.

Moisture content and texture

Crunchy cat treats are easy to portion out and store, but they generally contain less water than a moist snack. For comparison, Ina-paw liquid bites contain 93% moisture, compared with 10% for the chicken Catisfactions.

Texture should also be chosen according to how you intend to use the treat:

  • Crunchy for quick rewards or playtime.
  • Soft for easy eating and a different experience.
  • Liquid for topping dry food or varying how the meal is served.

This information is not a substitute for medical advice. If your cat has a special diet, a suspected allergy or eating difficulties, ask your vet for advice.

Pack size and storage

A multipack of cat treats can help prevent you running out and may offer several resealable pouches. However, remember to check the best-before date and the storage instructions after opening.

The chicken and salmon Catisfactions come in 6 x 60g pouches, making 360g in total. The manufacturer recommends resealing the pouch and using its contents within four weeks of opening. Individually portioned wet foods are convenient, but an opened portion should generally be refrigerated and used within 24 to 48 hours, according to the instructions on the label.

Our selection based on how you plan to use them

Recommended for : Beginners on a budget
CATISFACTIONS Chicken Treats for Cats and Kittens - 6 pack (360g)

CATISFACTIONS Chicken Treats for Cats and Kittens - 6 pack (360g)

Why this choice suits this profile : With six pouches, this pack lets you try a chicken reward while keeping a practical supply for everyday use.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies that this is a complementary food for adult cats and gives a limit of up to 12 treats per day, to be adjusted according to the individual cat.

Main benefit and key features

A crunchy texture with a soft centre, 360g in total, resealable pouches and no added artificial colourings or preservatives, according to the product information.

Recommended for : Premium shoppers
VITAKRAFT Cat Treats Liver 8 x 40g

VITAKRAFT Cat Treats Liver 8 x 40g

Why this choice suits this profile : Those looking for a soft texture and a grain-free recipe may prefer these liver pâté bites.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The stated recipe contains more than 70% meat and animal derivatives, with no grains or added sugar. However, the product information classifies it as a complementary food.

Main benefit and key features

Eight 40g portions, a tender texture, a resealable pouch and the option to use them as a reward or to conceal medication.

Recommended for : Specific uses and frequent users
Ina-paw Fun Cat Treats, Chicken & Tuna Roll, 4 Flavours

Ina-paw Fun Cat Treats, Chicken & Tuna Roll, 4 Flavours

Why this choice suits this profile : This pack is ideal for households that want to alternate between chicken, tuna, scallop and salmon, or mix the snack with their cat’s usual food.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information specifies that this is a complementary snack and recommends adjusting the quantity to the cat’s size and activity level, rather than using it as a substitute for a complete meal.

Main benefit and key features

Four flavours, up to 93% moisture according to the product information, a recipe free from grains, preservatives and artificial colourings, plus portions of approximately 4g.

Looking for more options ?

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

How much should you give each day?

Start by following the recommendation shown on the packaging. It can vary considerably from one product to another. Some Catisfactions products recommend up to 12 or 20 pieces per day for an adult cat, while Party Mix specifies a maximum quantity in grams and number of pieces.

Keep cat rewards for specific occasions: play, training, travel or calm interaction. Always provide fresh water and monitor your cat’s overall food intake. For a kitten, follow the age and quantity guidance specific to the product you have chosen.

Cat treats FAQ

Can cat treats replace pâté?

No, unless the product is explicitly presented as complete food. Snacks and rewards are generally complementary foods. Complete pâté, such as some multipacks of wet food, follows different recommendations and can contribute to daily meals.

Should I choose liquid cat snacks?

They may be suitable if your cat enjoys moist textures or if you want to vary how you serve their dry food. Their high water content does not make them complete foods. Check the ingredients, recommended daily quantity and storage instructions after opening.

How should I store a multipack of treats?

Store unopened pouches in a cool, dry place. After opening, reseal the packaging carefully and follow the stated use-by period. Opened moist or liquid portions should be refrigerated and used within the time specified on the label.