Top 12 Cat Treats Cats Can’t Resist
Top 12 Cat Treats Cats Can’t Resist: A Guide to Happy, Healthy Feline Snacking
Looking for the perfect treat to delight your feline friend? Our top 12 list features irresistible options like crunchy bites, savory lickable purees, and healthy freeze-dried morsels. These vet-approved choices are packed with flavor and often offer dental or nutritional benefits, ensuring your cat not only loves them but stays healthy too. Discover the ideal snack to strengthen your bond and make treat time a joy.
Finding a cat treat your feline companion genuinely adores can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, wondering which ones are truly safe, healthy, and, most importantly, irresistible to even the pickiest of eaters. You want to spoil your beloved pet, but you also want to ensure their well-being. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place! We’ve meticulously researched and compiled a list of the top 12 cat treats that consistently win over feline hearts and discerning owners. Get ready to discover the perfect snack that will have your cat purring for more, making every treat moment a rewarding experience for both of you.
Why Choosing the Right Cat Treats Matters
Treats are more than just tasty snacks; they play a significant role in your cat’s life and your relationship with them. They can be powerful tools for bonding, training, and even providing essential nutrients or dental care. However, not all treats are created equal. Opting for high-quality, appropriate treats ensures your cat reaps the benefits without compromising their health.
- Bonding and Enrichment: Offering treats is a wonderful way to strengthen the bond with your cat. It’s a positive interaction that builds trust and affection, making your cat feel loved and appreciated.
- Training and Behavior: Treats are incredibly effective for positive reinforcement. Whether you’re teaching your cat to come when called, tolerate nail trims, or use a new scratching post, a delicious reward can make all the difference.
- Dental Health: Many treats are specifically designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, contributing to better oral hygiene and preventing costly dental issues down the line.
- Nutritional Support: Some treats are fortified with vitamins, minerals, or specific supplements like omega fatty acids, offering a boost to your cat’s overall health, skin, and coat.
- Mental Stimulation: Interactive treat dispensers can provide mental enrichment, challenging your cat to “work” for their reward, which can be particularly beneficial for indoor cats.
Conversely, choosing the wrong treats or overfeeding can lead to problems like obesity, digestive upset, or exposure to unhealthy ingredients. That’s why understanding what makes a treat truly great is crucial.
Understanding Cat Treat Types
The world of cat treats is vast and varied, offering different textures, flavors, and benefits. Knowing the main types can help you narrow down the best choices for your cat’s preferences and needs.
| Treat Type | Description | Best For | Common Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crunchy Treats | Small, crispy kibble-like pieces. | Cats who love a satisfying crunch; training rewards. | Often help with dental health (mild abrasion). |
| Soft/Chewy Treats | Moist, pliable treats that are easy to chew. | Older cats, cats with dental issues, picky eaters. | Easier to digest; can be used for hiding pills. |
| Lickable Purees/Squeezable Treats | Smooth, creamy purees in tubes or pouches. | Hydration, picky eaters, bonding, distraction during grooming. | High moisture content; very palatable. |
| Freeze-Dried Treats | Raw meat or fish that has been freeze-dried, retaining nutrients and flavor. | Cats with sensitive stomachs, high-protein diets, natural ingredient preference. | Single-ingredient, high protein, very palatable, nutrient-rich. |
| Dental Treats | Specifically shaped and textured to clean teeth as the cat chews. | Preventing plaque and tartar buildup. | Promotes oral health, freshens breath. |
| Training Treats | Small, low-calorie, and highly palatable, designed for repeated use. | Behavior training, positive reinforcement. | Won’t overfill cat; high reward value. |
Our Top 12 Cat Treats Cats Can’t Resist
Based on palatability, ingredient quality, and overall cat parent satisfaction, here are our top picks that consistently get tails wagging and purrs rumbling.
1. Temptations Classic Crunchy Treats
Temptations treats are arguably the most popular cat treats on the market, and for good reason. They come in a wide variety of flavors, including chicken, salmon, tuna, and dairy, with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior and a soft, savory center that cats find irresistible. The texture combination is a major draw, providing both a pleasant crunch and a burst of flavor. They are also widely available and relatively affordable, making them a go-to for many cat owners. While not the most nutritionally dense, they are excellent for daily rewards and general enjoyment.
- Why Cats Love Them: Unique crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture; wide array of enticing flavors.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Primarily grain-based with meat flavors; good for general treat use.
- Pros: Highly palatable, affordable, widely available, many flavor options.
- Cons: Can be high in calories if overfed, contain some artificial ingredients.
2. Churu Lickable Puree Treats (Inaba Ciao Churu)
Churu treats have taken the cat world by storm, becoming a viral sensation due to their unique lickable puree format. These creamy treats come in individual tubes, allowing you to hand-feed your cat directly, which is fantastic for bonding. Made with real tuna or chicken, they are high in moisture and free from grains, artificial colors, and preservatives. Their high palatability makes them excellent for picky eaters, administering medication, or simply providing a hydrating, delicious snack. Cats go absolutely wild for them!
- Why Cats Love Them: Irresistible creamy texture; direct hand-feeding promotes bonding; real meat flavor.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: High moisture content, made with real tuna or chicken, grain-free.
- Pros: Excellent for hydration, highly palatable for picky eaters, great for administering pills, strong bonding tool.
- Cons: Can be messy if not careful, relatively more expensive per treat.
3. Greenies Dental Cat Treats
Feline Greenies are a popular choice for pet parents looking to combine treat time with oral hygiene. These crunchy treats are specifically designed to clean teeth by reducing tartar and plaque buildup as your cat chews. They come in various flavors like tuna, chicken, and salmon, making them appealing to most cats. While not a substitute for professional dental cleanings, regular use of Greenies can contribute significantly to your cat’s overall dental health and fresher breath.
- Why Cats Love Them: Satisfying crunch, appealing flavors, and a unique shape.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Formulated to reduce tartar and plaque; various flavors.
- Pros: Promotes dental health, widely accepted by cats, available in different sizes/flavors.
- Cons: Some cats may not chew them enough for full dental benefit, still contain calories.
4. PureBites Freeze-Dried Cat Treats (Chicken/Salmon)
For cat owners seeking a natural, single-ingredient treat, PureBites freeze-dried options are a fantastic choice. Made from 100% pure chicken or salmon, these treats retain their nutritional value and intense flavor through the freeze-drying process. They are free from grains, fillers, artificial colors, and preservatives, making them an excellent option for cats with sensitivities or those on limited-ingredient diets. The texture is light and airy, dissolving easily, which makes them palatable even for finicky felines.
- Why Cats Love Them: Intense, natural meat flavor; light, airy texture; single-ingredient purity.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: 100% pure chicken or salmon; high protein; grain-free; low calorie.
- Pros: Excellent for sensitive stomachs, high-quality protein source, very palatable, versatile (can be crumbled over food).
- Cons: Can be crumbly, may be more expensive than conventional treats.
5. Wellness Kittles Crunchy Cat Treats
Wellness Kittles are a great option for cat parents looking for natural, grain-free crunchy treats. These treats are made with real meat, fruits, and vegetables, and are free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. They come in fun, bite-sized shapes and appealing flavors like salmon & cranberries or chicken & cranberries. Kittles offer a satisfying crunch while providing wholesome ingredients, making them a healthier alternative to some other crunchy treats on the market.
- Why Cats Love Them: Appealing crunchy texture, natural ingredients, and palatable flavors.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Real meat, grain-free, no artificial additives.
- Pros: Wholesome ingredients, good for cats with grain sensitivities, satisfying crunch.
- Cons: Flavor variety might be slightly less extensive than some brands.
6. Blue Buffalo Bursts Crunchy Cat Treats
Blue Buffalo Bursts are another popular crunchy treat that boasts a flavorful, natural ingredient profile. These treats feature a crunchy outer shell and a soft, creamy center, similar to Temptations but often with a focus on more natural ingredients. They are made with real meat as the first ingredient and are free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. They offer a satisfying texture combination that cats find highly appealing, making them a great choice for daily rewards.
- Why Cats Love Them: Dual texture (crunchy outside, creamy inside), rich meat flavors.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Real meat first ingredient, no corn/wheat/soy, no artificial additives.
- Pros: Natural ingredients, appealing texture, good for general treating.
- Cons: Can be higher in calories, so moderation is key.
7. Inaba Twin Packs (Wet Treats)
While Churu is their most famous product, Inaba also offers Twin Packs, which are small, portioned wet treats that can be served as a meal topper or a standalone snack. These come in small, tear-open pouches and feature shredded chicken or tuna in a savory broth. They are high in moisture and made with human-grade ingredients, making them incredibly palatable and hydrating. They are perfect for enticing picky eaters, adding moisture to dry food, or simply giving your cat a delightful, juicy treat.
- Why Cats Love Them: Juicy, savory broth with real shredded meat; easy to eat.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: High moisture, real meat, human-grade ingredients.
- Pros: Excellent for hydration, very palatable, good as a meal topper, small portions.
- Cons: Can be a bit messy, not designed for dental health.
8. Feline Greenies Pill Pockets
While not a “treat” in the traditional sense of a reward, Greenies Pill Pockets are a lifesaver for cat owners who struggle with administering medication. These soft, pliable treats have a built-in pouch designed to perfectly conceal pills or capsules. They come in savory flavors like chicken and salmon that effectively mask the taste and smell of medication, making the process stress-free for both you and your cat. Many cats eagerly gobble them down, pill and all, without even realizing it.
- Why Cats Love Them: Soft, chewy texture; strong, appealing flavors that mask medication.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Designed to hide pills; soft and palatable.
- Pros: Makes giving medication easy, highly palatable, reduces stress.
- Cons: Primarily for medication, not for general treating; can be high in calories if given frequently without medication.
9. Sheba Meaty Tender Sticks
Sheba Meaty Tender Sticks are soft, chewy treats that cats absolutely adore. They come in individually wrapped sticks that can be broken into smaller pieces, making them versatile for portion control or for use as training rewards. Made with real meat, these sticks have a rich, savory flavor and a tender texture that’s easy for cats of all ages to enjoy. Their high palatability makes them a hit even with finicky felines, and they are excellent for bonding when hand-fed.
- Why Cats Love Them: Soft, chewy texture; rich, savory meat flavor; easy to break into smaller pieces.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Real meat, highly palatable.
- Pros: Great for bonding, easy to portion, widely accepted by cats.
- Cons: Can be a bit greasy, not designed for dental benefits.
10. Purina Friskies Party Mix Crunchy Cat Treats
Friskies Party Mix treats are a classic for a reason – cats simply can’t get enough of their varied shapes, colors, and intense flavors. These crunchy treats come in a wide range of exciting mixes, such as “Beachside Crunch” or “Mixed Grill,” offering a different sensory experience with each bite. While they might not be the most natural option on the market, their high palatability and satisfying crunch make them a consistent favorite for many cats and a budget-friendly choice for owners.
- Why Cats Love Them: Fun shapes and colors, strong flavors, satisfying crunch.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Wide variety of flavors and textures.
- Pros: Very palatable, affordable, widely available, fun for cats.
- Cons: Contains artificial colors and flavors, higher in carbohydrates.
11. Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free Cat Treats
Merrick Purrfect Bistro treats offer a healthier, grain-free crunchy option for cats. Made with real deboned meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient, these treats are free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives. They come in appealing flavors like salmon or chicken and have a satisfying crunch that cats enjoy. They are a great choice for owners looking for a more natural treat that still delivers on taste and texture, especially for cats with grain sensitivities.
- Why Cats Love Them: Real meat flavors, satisfying crunch, healthier ingredient profile.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Deboned meat first ingredient, grain-free, no artificial additives.
- Pros: Wholesome ingredients, good for cats with sensitivities, palatable.
- Cons: May be slightly pricier than conventional crunchy treats.
12. Nulo Freestyle Perfect Purees
Similar to Churu, Nulo Freestyle Perfect Purees are another excellent lickable treat option, often praised for their high-quality, limited ingredients. These purees are made with real meat or fish and contain beneficial ingredients like probiotics for digestive health and omegas for skin and coat. They are grain-free, carrageenan-free, and free from artificial colors or flavors. Their creamy texture and savory taste make them incredibly appealing to cats, serving as a hydrating snack, a meal topper, or a tool for bonding.
- Why Cats Love Them: Smooth, creamy texture; real meat flavor; easy to lick.
- Key Ingredients/Benefits: Real meat/fish, probiotics, omegas, grain-free, no carrageenan.
- Pros: Excellent for hydration and digestion, high-quality ingredients, very palatable.
- Cons: Can be messy, generally more expensive per treat.
How to Choose the Best Treats for Your Cat
With so many fantastic options, how do you pick the perfect treat for your unique feline friend? Consider these factors:
Ingredient Check: Quality Over Quantity
Always read the ingredient list. Look for treats with real meat, poultry, or fish as the first ingredient. Avoid treats with excessive fillers (like corn, wheat, soy), artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should be primarily meat-based.
Calorie Content: Mind the Waistline
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake. Overfeeding treats, even healthy ones, can lead to weight gain and associated health problems like diabetes and joint issues. Check the calorie count per treat and factor it into your cat’s overall diet. Small, low-calorie treats are excellent for training.
Cat’s Age and Health Needs
- Kittens: Choose treats specifically formulated for kittens, which are often smaller and softer.
- Adult Cats: Most treats are suitable, but consider activity level.
- Senior Cats: Softer treats are often preferred, especially if they have dental issues.
- Special Dietary Needs: If your cat has allergies, sensitivities, or specific health conditions (e.g., kidney disease, urinary issues), consult your vet for treat recommendations. Single-ingredient freeze-dried treats are often a safe bet.
Texture Preference: What Does Your Cat Love?
Some cats love a satisfying crunch, while others prefer soft, chewy textures or creamy purees. Observe your cat’s preferences. Offering a variety can also keep things interesting and provide different benefits (e.g., crunchy for dental, lickable for hydration).
Purpose: Why Are You Giving a Treat?
- Training: Small, low-calorie, high-value treats are best.
- Dental Health: Look for VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) accepted dental treats.
- Bonding: Lickable treats or hand-fed soft sticks are excellent.
- Hydration: Lickable purees or wet treats.
- Just for Fun: Any treat your cat loves, given in moderation.
Treat Safety and Best Practices
Even the best treats can cause problems if not given responsibly. Follow these guidelines to ensure treat time is always safe and beneficial for your cat.
- Moderation is Key: Stick to the 10% rule mentioned above. Treats are supplements, not meal replacements. Too many treats can lead to nutritional imbalances and obesity.
- Always Provide Fresh Water: Especially important when giving dry, crunchy treats.
- Supervision: Always supervise your cat when they are eating treats, especially larger or chewier ones, to prevent choking hazards.
- Proper Storage: Store treats in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Check expiration dates.
- Introduce New Treats Slowly: When introducing a new treat, offer a small amount first to see how your cat reacts. This helps prevent digestive upset.
- Consult Your Vet: If your cat has any health conditions, allergies, or is on a special diet, always consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats. They can provide personalized recommendations.
Beyond Treats: Other Ways to Spoil Your Cat
While treats are wonderful, remember that they are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to a happy, healthy cat. Here are other essential ways to show your feline friend love and ensure their well-being:
- Interactive Playtime: Dedicate at least 15-20 minutes daily to interactive play with wand toys, laser pointers (used carefully), or feather teasers. This satisfies their hunting instincts, provides exercise, and strengthens your bond.
- New Toys and Enrichment: Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh. Provide puzzle feeders, scratching posts (vertical and horizontal), cat trees, and window perches to enrich their environment.
- Cozy Beds and Hiding Spots: Cats love comfort and security. Offer various sleeping spots, from soft beds to enclosed hideaways, allowing them to choose where they feel safest.
- High-Quality Food: The foundation of your cat’s health is a balanced, high-quality diet. Choose a reputable brand with real meat as the primary ingredient.
- Regular Vet Check-ups: Preventive care is crucial. Regular veterinary visits ensure your cat stays healthy and allows for early detection of potential issues. Learn more about Cat Vaccination Schedule and Cost: Protecting Your Feline Friend.
- Grooming: Regular brushing not only helps with shedding and prevents matting but also serves as a gentle bonding experience.
FAQ: Your Cat Treat Questions Answered
How many treats can I give my cat per day?
As a general rule, treats should not make up more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake. For most adult cats, this means just a few small treats per day. Always check the specific calorie count on the treat packaging and adjust based on your cat’s size, age, and activity level. Overfeeding can lead to obesity.
Are human foods safe as treats for cats?
Some human foods are safe in very small quantities, such as plain cooked chicken, turkey, or salmon (without seasonings, bones, or skin), and small amounts of plain cooked eggs. However, many human foods are toxic or harmful to cats (e.g., chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, avocado, dairy in large amounts). It’s always best to stick to cat-specific treats formulated for their nutritional needs or consult your vet before offering human food.
Can treats replace meals for my cat?
No, treats should never replace a balanced meal. Cat treats are designed to be supplemental and do not provide the complete and balanced nutrition your cat needs to thrive. Relying on treats for meals can lead to nutritional deficiencies and health problems.
My cat won’t eat any treats, what should I do?
Some cats are naturally less interested in treats. Try different textures (crunchy, soft, lickable, freeze-dried) and flavors (chicken, fish, turkey). You might also try warming a wet treat slightly to enhance its aroma. If your cat consistently refuses all treats, it might be a sign of a health issue, so a vet visit is recommended to rule out underlying problems.
Are dental treats really effective for cleaning teeth?
Dental treats can be effective in helping to reduce plaque and tartar buildup, but they are not a substitute for professional dental cleanings or regular brushing. Look for treats that have the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of acceptance, as these have been scientifically proven to help reduce plaque and/or tartar. Their effectiveness depends on your cat actually chewing them.
What ingredients should I avoid in cat treats?
It’s best to avoid treats with excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy, as well as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Also, be wary of treats with a high sugar content or those containing ingredients known to be toxic to cats, such as xylitol (an artificial sweetener) or large amounts of dairy (as many cats are lactose intolerant).
How do I store cat treats to keep them fresh?
Store cat treats in their original packaging or an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps maintain their freshness, flavor, and prevents them from going stale or attracting pests. Always check the “best by” or expiration date on the packaging.