Cats can be picky about treats, but finding ones your cat loves is important for rewarding good behavior and keeping them interested during training and playtime. When choosing cat treats, consider your cat’s preferences and nutritional needs. Quick answers to key questions can help guide you to the best treats for your feline friend.
What are the different types of cat treats?
There are three main types of cat treats:
- Crunchy/hard treats – These are biscuit or jerky-like treats. They help clean cats’ teeth.
- Soft chewy treats – These have a smooth, chewy texture. They are easier for senior cats to chew.
- Liquid treats – These are usually broths or squeeze tubes. They are good for cats who have dental issues.
Treats also come in a variety of flavors, like fish, chicken, liver, catnip, and tuna.
What ingredients should I look for in cat treats?
Look for natural, high-quality ingredients in cat treats. Good options include:
- Real meat, fish, or poultry – These provide protein.
- Whole grains – These give carbohydrates for energy.
- Vegetables – These offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Natural flavors and broths – These make the treats tastier.
Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
How many treats can I give my cat daily?
Most experts recommend keeping treats to less than 10% of your cat’s daily calories. For an average 10-pound cat, that’s about 15-20 small treats per day. Too many treats can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Should I give my kitten treats?
You can give your kitten treats in moderation starting around 12 weeks old. Look for treats made just for kittens that have extra nutrients for growth and development. Only give about 5-10 treats at a time until your kitten is 6 months old.
Best Store-Bought Cat Treats
When shopping for store-bought cat treats, look for options that fit your cat’s needs and preferences. Here are some top choices:
Crunchy Treats
| Treat | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Temptations Classic Cat Treats | Crunchy outside with a soft center, made with real chicken |
| Greenies Original Dental Cat Treats | Promotes dental health, made with natural ingredients |
| Friskies Party Mix Crunchy Cat Treats | Fun shapes and textures, veterinarian recommended |
Chewy Treats
| Treat | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Purina Fancy Feast Broths | High-quality protein broths with real turkey, chicken, or tuna |
| Hartz Delectables Bisque Lickable Cat Treats | Smooth, flavorful puree treats easy to lick up |
| Inaba Churu Lickable Cat Treats | Grain-free puree tubes made with real meat |
Freeze Dried Treats
| Treat | Key Features |
|---|---|
| PureBites Freeze Dried Cat Treats | Made with just one ingredient, 100% natural |
| Instinct Freeze Dried Raw Bites | Grain-free, high in animal protein |
| Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Cat Treats | Retains nutrition through freeze drying process |
Homemade Cat Treat Recipes
Making your own homemade cat treats can be a fun DIY project. You control the ingredients to create healthy treats your cat will love. Here are some easy recipes to try:
Salmon Cat Treats
- Ingredients: canned salmon, whole wheat flour, egg, oil
- Recipe: Mix ingredients together until dough forms. Roll out and cut into shapes. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Pumpkin Kitty Treats
- Ingredients: canned pumpkin, whole wheat flour, cinnamon, egg
- Recipe: Mix ingredients into dough. Roll out and cut with cookie cutters. Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tuna Fridge Treats
- Ingredients: canned tuna, plain yogurt, catnip
- Recipe: Mash ingredients together and spoon into an ice cube tray. Freeze overnight.
Tips for Giving Cat Treats
Follow these tips to make treat time positive and healthy for your cat:
- Give treats in moderation and account for treats in daily diet.
- Break treats into smaller pieces to extend enjoyment.
- Offer treats during and after playtime or training for positive reinforcement.
- Experiment with different textures and flavors to find your cat’s favorites.
- Avoid giving table scraps, which can upset your cat’s stomach.
- Store treats properly to preserve freshness.
Watch for these signs that your cat has had enough treats:
- Loss of interest in treats
- Weight gain
- Upset stomach like vomiting or diarrhea
- Change in energy level
If your cat shows these signs, cut back on treats and talk to your vet.
Conclusion
From crunchy Temptations to chewy broths, there are many great treat options to reward your cat. Homemade treats allow you to control the ingredients. Whichever treats you choose, moderation is key to keep your cat healthy and happy. With so many ways to show your cat a little extra love, mix up their treats to keep treats exciting.