8 Types of Cat Treats: Vet-Approved Guide

Cat treats serve as rewards, training aids, and occasional nutritional boosts for your feline companion. With countless options available, selecting the right ones ensures they complement your cat’s diet without causing weight gain or health issues. Treats should comprise no more than 10% of daily calories to maintain optimal weight, as recommended by veterinary experts. This guide covers eight main types of cat treats, including their calorie ranges, ingredient profiles, and ideal uses, helping you make informed choices for your cat’s well-being.

Why Offer Cat Treats?

Offering treats strengthens the bond between you and your cat while providing motivation for training or positive reinforcement. High-quality treats can deliver essential nutrients like protein and taurine, vital for heart health, vision, and muscle maintenance in cats, obligate carnivores. However, poor-quality treats with fillers like corn or wheat add unnecessary carbohydrates, which cats metabolize inefficiently. Always prioritize treats with real meat as the first ingredient and minimal additives for maximum benefit.

How to Choose the Best Cat Treats

Focus on high-quality protein sources such as chicken, fish, or beef, avoiding vague terms like “animal byproducts”. Look for grain-free options enriched with omega fatty acids for skin and coat health, and ensure taurine is present for essential amino acid needs. Check calorie content to prevent overfeeding—most treats range from 1-17 calories per piece. For cats with sensitivities, opt for limited-ingredient formulas. Veterinary guidelines emphasize moderation: limit to less than 10% of daily intake.

1. Crunchy Cat Treats

Crunchy cat treats dominate store shelves due to their popularity and dental health claims. With a typical calorie range of 1–2 per treat, they suit adult cats with strong teeth. The hard texture scrapes tartar as cats chew, promoting oral hygiene, though they often contain grains like corn or wheat, adding carbs cats don’t require. Flavors range from chicken to salmon, available in various sizes. Avoid for cats with periodontal disease or gingivitis, as hardness can exacerbate pain. Ideal for training due to their satisfying crunch and low calorie count.

2. Soft/Chewy Cat Treats

Soft or chewy treats, ranging from 1.5–17 calories, offer easier consumption for kittens, seniors, or cats with dental problems. Their pliable texture prevents tooth strain while delivering flavors like tuna or beef. Many include real meat and are grain-free, supporting digestion for sensitive stomachs. However, some contain added sugars or artificial flavors—scrutinize labels. These versatile treats work for all ages, with softer options aiding picky eaters or those preferring moist textures.

3. Wet or Lickable Cat Treats

Wet treats, including pates, stews, broths, and lickable purees (2–5 calories), excel in hydration support, crucial since many cats drink insufficiently. Eaten by licking, they’re gentle on teeth, making them suitable for all ages, including those with oral issues. High moisture content mimics natural prey, enhancing appeal. Look for real fish or meat bases without excessive thickeners. These treats double as toppers for kibble to encourage eating or provide fluid intake for dehydrated cats.

4. Freeze-Dried Cat Treats

Freeze-dried treats (1–3 calories) preserve raw nutrients from meats like chicken or fish through gentle dehydration, retaining proteins, fats, and taurine without cooking. Limited-ingredient, grain-free profiles make them a top choice for nutrition-focused owners. Their lightweight, crunchy yet melt-in-mouth texture delights cats. Brands emphasize pure ingredients, avoiding fillers, ideal for daily rewards or training without calorie overload. Superior to baked options for mimicking a cat’s carnivorous diet.

5. Dehydrated Cat Treats

Similar to freeze-dried but using low-heat air drying (2–4 calories), dehydrated treats offer concentrated flavors from real meats or organs. They provide texture variety—chewy or crisp—and high protein for active cats. Often single-ingredient like liver or salmon, they’re digestible and nutrient-rich. Moderation prevents excess fat intake. Great for cats bored with kibble, supporting muscle health and energy needs in obligate carnivores.

6. Functional Cat Treats

Functional treats (2–10 calories) target specific health concerns like hairballs, joints, or immunity. Hairball formulas add fiber for smoother digestion; joint supports include glucosamine and chondroitin for senior mobility. Omega-rich options benefit skin and coat during shedding. Not limited-ingredient usually, but vet-formulated varieties exist. Use judiciously alongside a balanced diet—consult your vet for targeted needs like urinary health or calming effects.

7. Catnip Treats

Catnip treats (0 calories) infuse toys, sprays, or edibles with nepeta cataria, eliciting euphoria in 70-80% of adults. Pure catnip or infused biscuits provide zero-nutrition fun, perfect for play or stress relief. Limited ingredients ensure safety. Not for kittens under 6 months, as sensitivity develops later. Alternate with nutritious treats to balance reward and health.

8. Veterinary Cat Treats

Veterinary treats (1–2 calories), often prescription, feature limited ingredients for allergies, IBD, or renal issues. Hypoallergenic proteins like novel fish minimize reactions. Low-calorie for weight management. Require vet approval but offer tailored nutrition during recovery or chronic conditions. Prioritize these for medical diets.

Tips for Feeding Cat Treats Safely

• Account for treat calories in daily totals to avoid obesity.
• Store in cool, dry places; check expiration dates.
• Introduce new treats gradually to monitor allergies.
• Use for training: break into tiny pieces for portion control.
• Homemade options like dehydrated liver provide fresh control.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What percentage of a cat’s diet should treats be?

Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calorie intake to prevent nutritional imbalance and obesity.

Are freeze-dried treats healthy for cats?

Yes, they retain natural nutrients like protein and taurine, making them an excellent, minimally processed choice.

Can treats help with dental health?

Crunchy treats may reduce tartar via chewing action, but they’re not a substitute for professional dental care.

What ingredients should I avoid in cat treats?

Avoid grains, artificial colors, preservatives like BHA/BHT, and by-products; prioritize real meat.

Are soft treats better for senior cats?

Yes, their texture eases chewing for age-related dental issues while providing hydration and nutrition.

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Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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