If you’re looking for ways to bond with your cat, the way to their heart is often through their stomach. “Giving treats to your cat can help strengthen the bond between you and your pet,” said Dr. Nicole Savageau, VMD, veterinarian at The Vets, a mobile veterinary service. Cat treats can also be used to train your pet, reward good behavior and calm them down in stressful situations.
There are many types of cat treats available, but the best option will depend on your pet’s preferences and individual needs, say experts. To help narrow down the choices, NBC News asked veterinarians what key elements to look for when choosing cat treats and when and how to offer them to your pet. These experts decided on their top choices based on nutrition (cat treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of their daily calories, and have a source of high quality protein), texture, flavors, cost, and availability.
Below is a roundup of expert-recommended cat treats, as well as several highly rated products based on expert guidance. The products selected are low in calories and contain high-quality ingredients, and include options in a variety of textures to suit your cat’s preferences.
Best Overall: Temptations Classic Crunchy and Soft Cat Treats
Savageau said she gives Temptations treats to her own cats and that many of her feline patients enjoy these treats as well, noting that they’re often accepted by picky eaters. They have a crunchy outer shell with a soft center, and the treats come in a wide variety of flavors, including tuna, chicken, salmon, turkey, beef and more. Each treat contains just 2 calories, and they’re formulated with vitamins and taurine to support your cat’s health. I’ve given Temptations treats to my cats for many years, and they’ve always loved the crunchy consistency and meaty flavors.
Package size: 30 ounces | Type: Crunchy | Calories: 2 kcal/treat
Best Lickable: INABA Churu Cat Treats
Lickable treats come in small tubes, and they can be squeezed onto your cat’s regular food or fed by hand, offering a great way to interact with your pet. “We love to use Churu treats in the clinic when seeing our patients. [They are] a soft food treat that cats love,” said Savageau. “They are only 6 calories for one tube.” These treats are made from human-grade ingredients, including farm-raised chicken and wild-caught tuna, says the brand. There are also variety packs available. The formula is free from grains, preservatives and artificial colors and contains 91% moisture, which makes it a hydrating treat for your pet.
Package size: 20 0.5-ounce tubes | Type: Lickable | Calories: 6 kcal/tube
Best Soft: Meow Mix Irresistibles Soft Cat Treats
Dr. Kim DiMaio, VMD, veterinarian and owner of MainStreetVet.net, said that many cats prefer soft or moist cat treats, which are easier for them to chew. Meow Mix Irresistibles have a soft texture, and these popular treats contain just 2 calories per piece. They come in salmon or chicken flavor, both of which are made with real meat, and they’re a budget-friendly option for your pet.
Package size: 12 ounces | Type: Soft | Calories: 2 kcal/treat
Best for Dental Health: Feline Greenies Adult Dental Cat Treats
Both veterinarians we spoke to recommended Feline Greenies as a dental treat. These cat treats are accepted by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, meeting the council’s standards for preventing tartar buildup on your cat’s teeth. The treats don’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives, and they are only 2 calories each. However, Savageau noted that cats must actually chew the pieces, not swallow them whole, for the treats to be effective.
Package size: 9.5 ounces | Type: Crunchy | Calories: 1.4 kcal/treat
Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Purina Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats
If your cat has a sensitive stomach, the Purina Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats are highly palatable, as they contain just one ingredient. These treats are each made from protein, like chicken, tuna and salmon, and the meat is cooked and flaked, then packaged in convenient pouches that keep the contents fresh. You can purchase a variety pack or a single flavor, and all of the options contain zero byproducts or fillers, minimizing the risk that they’ll upset your cat’s digestive system.
Package size: 10 1-ounce packages | Type: Flaked | Calories: 3.3-4 kcal/package
While cat treats can be given daily, but it’s important to follow feeding guidelines. “Treats should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet,” said Savageau, noting that your cat’s main source of nutrition should be their regular cat food. “Overfeeding treats can lead to weight gain and other health problems.”
Remember treats are exactly that – a treat. They are not essential for a cat’s health. A complete and balanced cat food is all your cat needs to eat on a daily basis. However, there are situations when cat treats come in handy. “They can be especially useful during stressful events, such as vet visits or car rides,” said Savageau. “Giving your cat a treat can help distract them from the stressful situation and provide a positive association with the experience.” Treats can also be an effective way to bond with or train your pet.
Finally, if your cat has any medical conditions, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before adding new food — including treats — to their diet. Your vet will be able to recommend specific treats that will support your pet’s individual needs.
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