🐱 10 Vet-Recommended Cat Treats

Welcome, cat lovers! If you’re on the hunt for the perfect treat to pamper your feline friend, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve scoured the opinions of veterinarians and cat nutrition experts to bring you a list of 10 cat treats that are not only delicious but also beneficial for your cat’s health.

1. Greenies Feline Tempting Tuna Flavor Adult Dental Cat Treats

Benefits: 🦷 Dental Health | 🐟 Tuna Flavor | ✅ VOHC Approved

Greenies Feline Treats are a game-changer in dental care for cats. Clinically proven to reduce plaque and tartar, these crunchy treats carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance. The tuna flavor is irresistible, making dental care a delightful experience for your cat.

2. PureBites Freeze Dried Chicken Breast Cat Treats

Benefits: 🍗 Single Ingredient | 🌿 Allergy-Friendly | 🥇 High Protein

Ideal for sensitive stomachs, PureBites treats are made with one ingredient only: human-grade freeze-dried chicken breast. They’re a fantastic source of protein and low in fat, making them a healthy choice for cats with allergies or dietary restrictions.

3. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Backcountry Cuts

Benefits: 🐔 Real Chicken | 🐟 Salmon | 💧 Hydration Boost

These grain-free treats are a powerhouse of nutrition, featuring real chicken and salmon. They’re not just tasty but also provide essential hydration, especially beneficial for cats who aren’t keen on drinking enough water.

4. Tiki Cat Stiky Chicken Freeze-Dried Treats

Benefits: 🍗 Human-Grade Chicken | 🏃‍♂️ On-the-Go Snacking | 🏅 Training Reward

Tiki Cat’s freeze-dried chicken treats are perfect for busy pet parents. Packaged in single-serving pouches, they’re convenient for travel and excellent as a training reward.

5. ZiwiPeak Air-Dried Lamb with Green Mussels Cat Treats

Benefits: 🐑 Novel Protein | 🌊 Omega-3 Fatty Acids | 🌿 Allergy-Friendly

These treats are a unique blend of air-dried lamb and green mussels from New Zealand, offering a novel protein source for cats with allergies. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and coat.

6. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Beef Hearts

Benefits: ❤️ Nutrient-Rich | 🍖 High Protein | 🦷 Dental Health

Stella & Chewy’s offers freeze-dried raw beef hearts, a nutrient-dense treat that’s a hit with cats. They’re an excellent source of protein and taurine, essential for your cat’s overall health.

7. Pet Naturals Calming Treats for Cats

Benefits: 🌿 Stress Relief | 🌼 Contains Chamomile | 🧘‍♂️ Relaxation

For cats prone to anxiety, these calming treats are a lifesaver. Infused with L-theanine and chamomile, they help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

8. Jackson Galaxy Cat Grass

Benefits: 🌾 Digestive Aid | 🐾 Hairball Prevention | 🌱 Safe for Cats

While not a traditional treat, cat grass is a fantastic addition to your cat’s diet. It aids in digestion and helps prevent hairballs. Ensure you choose a type that’s safe for feline consumption.

9. INABA Churu Lickable Cat Treat

Benefits: 💦 Hydration Boost | 🍲 Variety of Flavors | 🐱 Soft Texture

INABA Churu’s creamy treats are a delight for cats, especially those with chewing difficulties. They come in various flavors and provide extra hydration.

10. Yeowww! Organic Catnip Mice

Benefits: 🌿 Organic Catnip | 🐭 Playful Stimulation | 🎉 Entertainment

These organic catnip mice are filled with high-quality catnip, providing hours of entertainment and stimulating playful behavior in cats.

Comparison Chart

Treat	Dental Health	High Protein	Allergy-Friendly	Hydration	Stress Relief	Playful Stimulation
Greenies	✅	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌
PureBites	❌	✅	✅	❌	❌	❌
Blue Buffalo	❌	✅	❌	✅	❌	❌
Tiki Cat	❌	✅	❌	❌	❌	❌
ZiwiPeak	❌	✅	✅	❌	❌	❌
Stella & Chewy’s	✅	✅	❌	❌	❌	❌
Pet Naturals	❌	❌	❌	❌	✅	❌
Jackson Galaxy	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌
INABA Churu	❌	❌	❌	✅	❌	❌
Yeowww!	❌	❌	❌	❌	❌	✅

Key Takeaways

Dental Health: Greenies and Stella & Chewy’s are excellent for maintaining dental hygiene.

High Protein: PureBites, Blue Buffalo, Tiki Cat, and Stella & Chewy’s are great high-protein options.

Allergy-Friendly: PureBites and ZiwiPeak cater to cats with food sensitivities.

Hydration: Blue Buffalo and INABA Churu are ideal for cats needing extra fluids.

Stress Relief: Pet Naturals is perfect for calming anxious felines.

Playful Stimulation: Yeowww! offers fun and engagement with their catnip mice.

Remember, moderation is key when it comes to treats. They should only constitute a small portion of your cat’s diet. Always consult with your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your cat has health issues.

Happy treating! 🐾🍽️

FAQs: Vet-Recommended Cat Treats

1. How Often Should I Give My Cat Treats?

It’s essential to balance treat-giving with your cat’s overall diet. Treats should not exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake. For most cats, this means a few treats per day, depending on their size, age, and activity level. Always adjust their main meals accordingly to prevent overfeeding.

2. Are Grain-Free Treats Better for My Cat?

Grain-free treats, like Blue Buffalo Wilderness Backcountry Cuts, are often recommended for cats with specific grain allergies or sensitivities. However, grains are not inherently harmful to cats and can be part of a balanced diet. The choice should be based on your cat’s individual health needs and preferences.

3. Can Treats Help With Dental Health?

Yes, certain treats are designed to promote dental health. For example, Greenies Feline Dental Treats have a texture that helps reduce tartar and plaque buildup. However, they should complement regular dental care routines, including brushing and veterinary check-ups.

4. What Should I Look for in a High-Protein Treat?

High-protein treats should list a real meat source, like chicken or beef, as the first ingredient. Treats like PureBites Freeze Dried Chicken and Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Beef Hearts are excellent examples. These are particularly beneficial for active, growing, or underweight cats.

5. Are Lickable Treats Like INABA Churu Good for Hydration?

Lickable treats are an excellent way to increase your cat’s water intake, especially for those reluctant to drink enough water. These treats have a high moisture content, which can aid in hydration and support urinary health.

6. Can Treats Aid in Stress Reduction?

Certain treats contain ingredients known for their calming effects, like L-theanine and chamomile found in Pet Naturals Calming Treats. These can be helpful for anxious cats, especially during stressful situations like vet visits or travel.

7. Is Catnip Safe, and How Does It Affect Cats?

Catnip is safe for cats and can be a source of great enjoyment. Not all cats are affected by catnip, but those who are typically show increased playfulness and activity. Yeowww! Organic Catnip Mice are a good choice for introducing catnip in a controlled and fun way.

8. How Can I Ensure Treats Are Allergy-Friendly?

For cats with allergies, look for treats with limited ingredients, like ZiwiPeak’s Air-Dried Lamb with Green Mussels. Avoid treats with common allergens like beef, dairy, or wheat, and always introduce new treats gradually to monitor for any adverse reactions.

9. Do Freeze-Dried Treats Retain Nutrients?

Freeze-drying is a process that preserves most of the nutrients in food, making freeze-dried treats like Tiki Cat Stiky Chicken a nutrient-rich option. They maintain the natural flavors and nutritional value of the ingredients, making them a healthy choice for cats.

10. What Role Does Cat Grass Play in a Cat’s Diet?

Cat grass is not a treat in the traditional sense but can provide health benefits. It aids in digestion and can help prevent hairballs. Cat grass like Jackson Galaxy Cat Grass is safe for cats and can also satisfy their instinct to graze on greens.

11. Are There Treats Suitable for Overweight Cats?

For overweight cats, choose treats that are low in calories and high in protein. Treats should be given sparingly, and it’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet with regular exercise. Consulting with a vet for a tailored dietary plan is advisable.

12. Can Kittens Have the Same Treats as Adult Cats?

Kittens have different nutritional needs than adult cats. While some treats are suitable for all life stages, it’s important to select treats specifically designed for kittens, as they require more protein and certain nutrients for growth and development.

13. How Do I Choose Treats for Cats with Sensitive Stomachs?

Selecting treats for cats with sensitive stomachs requires careful consideration. Opt for treats with minimal and easily digestible ingredients. Avoid artificial additives, colors, and flavors, as these can exacerbate stomach issues. PureBites, with its single-ingredient formula, is an excellent example of a treat suitable for sensitive stomachs.

14. Are There Specific Treats for Senior Cats?

Senior cats often have different nutritional needs due to their less active lifestyle and metabolic changes. Look for treats that are lower in calories and fat but high in fiber and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, which support joint health and cognitive function. Soft, chewable treats are also preferable for older cats with dental issues.

15. Can Cat Treats Help with Furball Management?

Certain treats are formulated to aid in managing hairballs. These usually contain fiber to help move hair through the digestive tract, preventing the formation of hairballs. While treats can assist in this regard, regular grooming and a fiber-rich diet are also important in managing hairballs.

16. What’s the Importance of Taurine in Cat Treats?

Taurine is an essential amino acid for cats, crucial for heart health, vision, and reproduction. Since cats cannot synthesize taurine, it must be provided in their diet. Treats like Stella & Chewy’s, which are rich in meat, naturally contain taurine, making them a beneficial addition to a cat’s diet.

17. How Can I Use Treats Effectively for Training?

Treats can be a powerful tool for training cats. Choose small, flavorful treats that your cat loves, and use them as a reward for positive behavior. It’s important to give the treat immediately after the desired behavior to create a strong association. Remember, consistency and patience are key in training.

18. Are Homemade Cat Treats a Good Option?

Homemade cat treats can be a healthy and personalized option, provided you understand your cat’s nutritional needs. Use safe, cat-friendly ingredients and avoid toxic foods like onions, garlic, and chocolate. Homemade treats should be used sparingly and complement a nutritionally complete diet.

19. What Role Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Play in Cat Treats?

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in treats like ZiwiPeak’s Air-Dried Lamb with Green Mussels, are vital for a cat’s skin and coat health, reducing inflammation and supporting cognitive function. These fatty acids are particularly beneficial for cats with skin allergies or joint issues.

20. How Can I Ensure the Treats I Choose Are Ethically Sourced?

Ethical sourcing is increasingly important for pet owners. Look for brands that are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. Brands that use locally sourced, free-range, or sustainably harvested ingredients are often a good choice. Checking for certifications or company ethical policies can also provide insights into their practices.

21. Can Treats Be Used to Supplement a Cat’s Diet?

While treats should not replace a balanced diet, they can be used to supplement it. For instance, treats with added vitamins, minerals, or specific nutrients can be beneficial for cats with certain dietary deficiencies. However, it’s crucial to ensure that these supplements do not lead to an excess of certain nutrients.

22. What Precautions Should I Take When Introducing New Treats?

When introducing new treats, start with small quantities to monitor how your cat reacts. Look out for any signs of digestive upset or allergic reactions. If your cat has a history of dietary sensitivities, consult your vet before introducing new treats. Gradual introduction is key to avoiding gastrointestinal issues.