The best cat treats in 2023, according to veterinarians

Jun 19, 2024

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, we asked veterinarians what key elements to look for when choosing cat treats and when and how to offer them to your pet. These experts also shared their personal recommendations with us.

According to the veterinarians we spoke to, there are several factors to look for when choosing cat treats:

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.

Below is a roundup of expert-recommended cat treats, as well as several highly rated products based on expert guidance. The products we selected are low in calories and contain high-quality ingredients, and we included options in a variety of textures to suit your cat’s preferences.

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

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

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

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

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

When comparing treats for your pet, DiMaio explained that the goal is to find something that’s both “tasty and healthy.” It may take some trial and error to find a treat that your cat responds to enthusiastically, but there are several things you’ll want to look for when you shop. Here are the most important factors to keep in mind:

Yes, 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.”

No, treats are not necessary for cats. 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.

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Camryn Rabideau has been covering pet products for more than six years, and she’s owned several cats throughout her life. While researching this article, she spoke with two veterinarians who offered guidance on how to select healthy treats your cat will enjoy, as well as recommendations for specific products. She also researched dozens of highly rated treats and selected them for this list based on expert guidance.

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Camryn Rabideau is a freelance writer and product reviewer who specializes in home and pet products. In her six years as a product tester, she's reviewed hundreds of items firsthand with the help of her cat and two dogs.