The Best Treats For Cats

Cat Cat Treats

Questions

  • Why give your cat treats?
  • Treat selection tips
Treats are to cats what chocolate is to humans, a little something special to enjoy in between regular meals. But with so many types of cat treats available, how do you pick the best ones for your furry friend?
No matter if you’re a seasoned cat guardian or a new pet parent, this guide will break down the different types of feline treats, their benefits, and how to choose the right fit for your feline friend’s needs.

Why give your cat treats?

Treats can serve as more than just a tasty indulgence for your feline companion, they can also offer valuable nutritional benefits. The best cat treats often include essential nutrients, vitamins, or supplements that support your cat’s overall health.
For instance, some treats are designed to promote dental hygiene by reducing plaque and tartar buildup, while others may include ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids for a healthier coat and skin.
Treats can also aid in weight management or digestion if they are formulated with specific dietary needs in mind. They’re helpful for training or reinforcing positive behaviours, making them a versatile tool for cat parents. When given in moderation, treats can complement a balanced diet and contribute to your cat’s well-being.

Freeze-dried treats

Freeze-dried treats offer numerous benefits for cats, making them a popular and healthy option among pet parents. These treats are minimally processed, preserving the natural nutrients, flavours, and textures of the ingredients. High in protein and often made from single-source, whole-food ingredients such as chicken, fish, or liver, freeze-dried treats like Rosewood Freeze Dried Cat Treats align well with a cat's carnivorous diet.
They are free from artificial additives, fillers, or unnecessary preservatives, making them a healthier alternative to many traditional treats. Due to their lightweight and long shelf life, these treats are easy to store and convenient for travel or training purposes.
Freeze-dried treats cater to picky eaters, as their intense natural flavour can entice even the most selective cats. When given in moderation, these treats promote optimal nutrition and overall feline happiness.

Wet treats

Wet cat treats are an excellent way to add hydration to your cat's diet, which is particularly important for cats that may not drink enough water. Wet treats like Webbox Cats Delight Lick-E-Lix are perfect for fussy eaters. Their soft, moist texture makes them ideal for older cats or those with dental sensitivities, ensuring easier consumption and enjoyment. Soft cat treats also tend to be highly palatable, packed with rich flavours and aromas that can encourage the most finicky eaters to indulge.
Additionally, many wet treats are designed with balanced nutrition in mind, offering essential vitamins and minerals to support your cat's overall health. These treats can also be a useful tool for bonding during feeding time as they tend to be of higher value making them a tastier reward.

Biscuit treats

Dry biscuit treats like Felix Crispies Cat Treats offer numerous benefits for your cat’s overall health and well-being. One of their primary advantages is promoting dental health. The crunchy texture of biscuit treats helps to reduce plaque and tartar buildup as cats chew, contributing to cleaner teeth and fresher breath. Dry biscuits are convenient for storage and serving, with a long shelf life that ensures freshness over time.
Dry treats like Dreamies Pouch with Tasty Chicken provide balanced nutrition, often fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and protein to support your cat’s energy levels and vitality. They are also available in a variety of flavours and shapes, catering to different preferences while keeping your cat engaged during snack time.
Biscuit treats can be portioned easily, making them suitable for training or rewarding positive behaviour, ensuring your feline friend remains happy and healthy.

Calming treats

Calming treats are specially formulated to help reduce stress and anxiety in cats, promoting a sense of relaxation and well-being. These treats are often enriched with natural ingredients such as chamomile, valerian root, and L-theanine, which are known for their soothing properties. Many cat calming treats include essential nutrients like B vitamins and amino acids to support healthy brain function and overall mood stability.
The process of making calming treats typically involves blending these active ingredients with palatable bases, such as chicken or fish, ensuring they are appealing to even the pickiest of cats. These treats are then baked or air-dried to preserve their flavour and nutritional value. Treats like Dreamies Adult 1+ Cat Treats with Catnip use catnip as a core ingredient to promote a reduction in stress.
Calming treats can be particularly beneficial during situations that may be stressful for cats, such as travel, veterinary visits, thunderstorms, or changes in their environment. They provide a gentle and convenient way to maintain your cat's emotional balance and comfort.

Treats for kittens

Kittens have unique nutritional needs as they grow, making age-specific treats essential for their healthy development. During their early months, kittens require higher levels of key nutrients like protein, calcium, and DHA to support their rapid growth, bone development, and brain function. Treats designed specifically for kittens like VetIq Nutriboost Kitten Treats provide these vital nutrients in appropriate amounts, ensuring they complement a balanced diet without exceeding their dietary requirements.
Age-specific treats like Whiskas Kitten Milk Treat are often softer in texture, catering to kittens' delicate teeth and gums. These treats can also aid in positive reinforcement during training, fostering good behaviour from a young age. By prioritizing kitten-specific treats, pet parents can ensure their young companions receive the tailored nutrition and support they need for a strong foundation in their formative stages.

Dental treats

Dental treats provide a simple and effective way to support your cat’s oral health, especially during the initial stages of introducing teeth brushing. Treats like DentaLife Chicken Cat Dental Treats are specifically designed to help reduce tartar buildup and freshen breath, offering a convenient solution for maintaining dental hygiene. Their unique textures encourage chewing, which can naturally clean a cat's teeth and stimulate their gums.
For feline friends unfamiliar with a toothbrush, cat dental treats can help ease them into the routine by associating oral care with something enjoyable. They are a helpful tool in reducing the risk of dental diseases such as gingivitis or periodontal issues. Pairing dental treats with gradual teeth brushing sessions creates a holistic approach to improving your cat’s oral health while keeping the process stress-free and rewarding for them.

Treat selection tips

When selecting the right treats for your cat, consider both their nutritional needs and individual preferences. Look for treats that are specifically formulated for cats, containing high-quality proteins and essential nutrients without excessive fillers, artificial flavours, or added sugars. If your cat has specific dietary requirements or health conditions, such as weight management or allergies, opt for treats designed to address those concerns.
Pay attention to your cat’s preferences in texture and flavour, as some may prefer crunchy treats while others enjoy softer options. Offering a variety and observing their reactions can help you choose treats they will both enjoy and benefit from.
Whether you’re rewarding good behaviour, bonding with your cat, or tackling specific health goals, there’s a treat out there that’s perfect for your feline friend. Take the time to explore what works best for your cat’s needs and preferences. Visit us in store and online to find our best deals on a variety of healthy cat treats.