Last Updated on December 10, 2023 by Fumipets
Choosing healthy treats for your feline friend is essential to support their overall well-being and maintain a balanced diet. Opting for nutritious cat treats ensures that your pet receives tasty rewards without compromising their health. Here’s a brief overview of what to consider when selecting healthy cat treats.
If you’re a pet parent who is just now becoming aware of the risks in your furry friend’s feeding bowl, you may be seeking for substitute methods.
Regardless of your level of knowledge or experience, avoiding potentially dangerous meals for your cat is a crucial decision that will eventually provide you more time with your preferred kitty.
As a result, we took the opportunity of gathering some recommendations for some fantastic nutritious snacks for cats if you’re seeking for alternatives. Which one will work best for your cat out of the following ten options?
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
BEST OVERALL | Smalls Giblet Niblets Cat Treats | All-natural Single ingredient High in protien | |
BEST VALUE | Greenies Feline Oven Roasted Chicken Treats | Affordable Freshens breath Naturally flavored | |
PREMIUM CHOICE | Churu Tuna Puree Pack | 50 tubes Aromatic, flavorful recipes Easy to feed | |
Hartz Delectables Variety Cat Treat | Non-GMO No negative additives High protein | ||
Bravo Healthy Cat Bites | Perfect for kittens Single ingredient Great source of extra protein |
The 10 Best Healthy Cat Treats
1. Smalls Giblet Niblets Freeze-Dried Cat Treats – Best Overall
Flavor: | Chicken |
Target Nutrition: | Everyday health |
Treats aren’t often seen as being especially nutritious. In the end, the idea of a treat is an exception to the rule. The Smalls Giblet Niblets, on the other hand, are about as natural and healthful as they get. The only ingredient in these goodies is freeze-dried chicken giblets. They are a great healthy alternative for your cat since they only include one ingredient and are bite-sized. Additionally, they are not too pricey either.
Given that they provide additional minerals and amino acids, the giblets are far healthier than the majority of other alternatives available. Additionally, they are a great source of protein, which is what your cat needs to grow.
The Smalls Giblet Niblets are, in our opinion, the greatest all-around healthy cat treat this year out of all the options available.
Pros
- All-natural
- Single-ingredient
- Freeze-dried
- Bite-sized
Cons
- Requires a subscription
2. Greenies Feline Oven Roasted Chicken Treats – Best Value
Flavor: | Chicken |
Target Nutrition: | Dental health |
Check these Greenies Feline Oven Roasted Chicken Treats if you’re seeking for a bargain and want to save some money. You may be sure that your dog will like the taste and that they will do wonders for their dental requirements. They are among the most cost-effective cat treats available.
Even the stinkiest lips will be perked up by these sweets, which are designed to refresh breath. Each treat has taste enhancers and is dry and crunchy to appeal to any kitty.
Since chicken meal is the first component, the product is guaranteed to be a rich source of protein. Each treat has 1.4 calories. This product has 27% crude protein, 12% crude fat, 10% crude fiber, and 10% moisture according to the guaranteed analysis.
These snacks have been created especially for older cats. Therefore, if you have kittens, another brand could be better for you.
Pros
- Affordable
- Freshens breath
- Naturally flavored
Cons
- Adults only
3. Churu Tuna Puree Variety Cat Treats – Premium Choice
Flavor: | Tuna |
Target Nutrition: | Everyday health |
The Inaba Churu Tuna Purée Variety Pack is what we’d like to present to you. This four-flavor soft locked treat comes in a box of 50 tubes and is ideal for every cat in the house. Although this option may be a bit pricey up front, it is really worth it.
All four of the tastes are unique takes on tuna that any cat will like. There are 20 tubes of normal tuna, 10 tubes of chicken- and scallop-flavored tuna, and 10 tubes of salmon- and scallop-flavored tuna. Simple, simple-to-pronounce substances without any dangerous additions are included in each tube.
Each tube has a total of six calories. This product’s guaranteed analysis shows that it contains 91% moisture, 7% crude protein, 0.20 % crude fat, and 0.30 % crude fiber.
These delectable tubes have the potential to entice any cat. They make the ideal dry kibble supplement or the ideal healthy treat to strengthen your relationship with your cat.
Pros
- 50 tubes
- Aromatic, flavorful recipes
- Easy to feed
Cons
- Pricey
4. Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up Variety Pack Cat Treat
Flavor: | Tuna, chicken |
Target Nutrition: | Everyday health |
Another excellent option is the Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up Variety Pack Cat Treats. From babies to elderly cats, we believe that all cats may benefit from these delectable nibbles that need no chewing. Our kitties adored the texture and range of flavors.
We adore how well these dishes have been created. The health of your cat is unquestionably a concern, and this food is grain-free, non-GMO, by-product-free, and artificial additive-free. This may be given to them as a standalone snack or on top of their preferred kibble.
There are 7.4 calories in each tube. The product’s guaranteed analysis shows that it comprises 90% moisture, 8% crude protein, 0.1% crude fat, and 0.5% crude fiber.
All we can say is that if you’re not cautious, things may turn nasty. In addition, your cat will like the flavor.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- No negative additives
- High protein
- Easy for all life stages
Cons
- Can be messy
5. Bravo Healthy Bites Cat Treats – Best for Kittens
Flavor: | Salmon |
Target Nutrition: | Muscle maintenance |
Bravo Health Bites Cat Treats are beneficial for all cats, but we believe they make a wonderful introduction for kittens. Because it is entirely nutritious and made entirely of meat, it instills good behaviors in your cat while providing their diet with essential protein.
These little bits are perfect for fast snacks or as a garnish for their daily meals. Salmon is the one and only ingredient in them. This product is entirely raw and freeze-dried; it contains neither preservatives nor antibiotics.
There are 100 calories in a serving. This product’s guaranteed analysis shows that it includes 10% moisture, 8% crude fat, 1% crude fiber, and 65% crude protein.
We can only conclude that some of our trial cats really lacked interest. So, given that it differs from conventional nibbles, your cat may or may not like the texture, fragrance, or taste of this. Some people may find it a bit challenging to chew.
Pros
- Perfect for kittens
- Single ingredient
- Great source of extra protein
Cons
- Possibly difficult to chew
6. Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Boost Cat Treat
Flavor: | Chicken and Pumpkin |
Target Nutrition: | Digestion |
The great digestive-helping Instinct Freeze-Dried Raw Boost Cat Treats are a delight. This mixture may be given to them as a snack or as a topping for their regular food.
Since chicken is the first ingredient in this topping, you can be sure that it is a sufficient amount of protein. For simple digestion, it also includes chicory root, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes. Additionally, active probiotics have been included to maintain the healthy flora in your dog’s intestines.
These treats have 18 calories per serving. According to the product’s guaranteed analysis, it has 36% crude protein, 30% fat, 15% crude fiber, and 6% moisture. Additionally, it has 2,000,000 live probiotics.
There isn’t a lot of flavor in these sweets. Some cats could steer clear of this object since it lacks the usual fragrance or feel.
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Kibble additive or snack option
- Smooths digestion
Cons
- Mild scent
7. Orijen Grain-Free Original Cat Treats
Flavor: | Chicken |
Target Nutrition: | Everyday health |
For your older kittens, Orijen Grain-Free Original Cat Treats are a nutritious choice. Real monkfish and chicken, as well as other ethical foods, are used to make these snacks. The goods are created in the United States, and all of the protein sources are sourced from nearby farms.
This snack contains a variety of animal products, including organs that are high in nutrients. Since these treats were gently frozen-dried, cats will still find their texture and aroma to be highly enticing. All of these treats are suitable for cats, which we adore, physiologically speaking.
Each treat has only one calorie, making it an ideal snack for anyone looking to gain weight. This product’s guaranteed analysis shows that it contains 2% moisture, 1% crude fiber, 45% crude fat, and 35% crude fat.
The pricing is the only issue we identified that may be problematic for certain people. Even if they are not the most costly snacks, it looks like you get a little bit for the money.
Pros
- Includes organs
- Calorie-friendly
- Responsible farming
Cons
- A bit pricey
8. Get Naked Urinary Health Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats
Flavor: | Chicken and cranberry |
Target Nutrition: | Urinary Health |
The Get Naked Urinary Health Grain-Free Crunchy Cat Treats are great for cats that need a beneficial urinary tract supplement. This delectable, crispy, and cat-friendly chicken nibble is made with antioxidant-rich cranberries.
Because of their tremendous healing capabilities, cranberries are particularly good in reducing the risk of urinary infections. They also help to freshen breath. While your cat nibbles, the crunchy texture of these fruity snacks cleans its teeth.
These snacks have less than one calorie per serving, which is advantageous if your cat is keeping an eye on their weight. This product’s guaranteed analysis shows that it includes 10% moisture, 5.5% crude fat, 3.5% crude fiber, and 20% crude protein.
In the end, they are truly great treats for cats that have bladder problems. But not every cat will need the same advantages. Therefore, even while it won’t harm any cats, it may not be the ideal choice for them.
Pros
- Improves urinary health
- Freshens breath and cleans teeth
- Contains powerful antioxidants
Cons
- Doesn’t have the same benefit for every cat
9. Nulo Freestyle Perfect Puree Variety Pack Cat Treat
Flavor: | Beef & salmon, tuna & scallop, chicken, tuna & crab, tuna & crab |
Target Nutrition: | Digestion support |
Nulo Freestyle Perfect Purée Variety Pack Cat Treat is another another fantastic lickable treat. With no strange additives that can hurt your cat, it’s a fantastic product that cats go gaga about. Not to mention, isn’t the packaging’s visual design adorable?
These squeezables are incredibly hydrating and nutrient-dense. Each pouch contains a prebiotic mix that promotes the growth of beneficial gut flora and helps with gut health. Tapioca, carrageenan, artificial flavors, and preservatives are not used in the recipes.
There are seven to nine calories in one serving. This product’s guaranteed analysis shows that it comprises 87% moisture, 1% fat, 0.8% crude fiber, and 8% crude protein.
Some of the flavor packets were a touch runny, but our kitties still enjoyed them. If you use this consistency as a food topping, things can become messy.
Pros
- Delicious recipes
- Improve gut bacteria
- Free of harmful ingredients
Cons
- Slightly watery
10. Cat Ladies Organic Cat Grass Grow Kit
Flavor: | Grass |
Target Nutrition: | Digestive health |
Want to give your cat some eco-friendly treats every day? The Cat Ladies Organic Cat Grass Grow Kit is a great alternative for cats that can’t resist your indoor plants, even if it may not be a typical treat per se.
Cat grass has its own advantages in addition to being an excellent substitute for nibbling on succulent leaves. Despite being obligate carnivores, cats nevertheless benefit from eating roughage.
Although this treat choice will involve some effort from you, we believe it will be worthwhile. Simply adhere to the directions, assembling the plant pouches and watering as necessary. You’ll see sprouts in four to six days.
These seeds provide your cat a variety of flavors and textures in a small serving by including wheat, oats, barley, rye, and flax. However, if your cat isn’t very fond of plants, this choice can end up costing you money.
Pros
- Good option if your cat eats your houseplants
- Good for digestion
- Grows quickly
Cons
- Only for cats interested in plants
Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Best Healthy Cat Treats
If you want to purchase your cat a nutritious treat but aren’t sure where to begin, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Here are some things to think about while introducing a healthier lifestyle for your cat.
Types of Treats
You could be confused by the many treat textures. Here are some nutritious choices for you to consider.
Freeze-Dried
There are several companies nowadays that sell freeze-dried foods. Some of them are uncooked, moisture-free chunks of beef protein. Another option is a mix of freeze-dried fruits, vegetables, and protein.
These snacks have not been subjected to high heat, which would have diminished their nutrients, which is advantageous nutritionally.
Dry Kibble
As some of the first commercial cat treats available, dry kibble treats are rather prevalent. Kibble that is dry might aid in tooth cleaning. However, try to avoid items that include a lot of fillers and fake or synthetic substances.
Moist Snacks
Moist treats are great for kittens and cats with dental problems since they are so simple for your felines to chew. These snacks include a little amount of wetness and are often saltier than dry kibble snacks.
Puree
Because puree treats are lickable, your cat can actually extend their shelf life. This kind of food is popular with cats since it is tasty and simple to consume. There are several puree snacks available that are healthy and devoid of additives.
Broths
A excellent source of hydration for your cat’s diet is broth. Cats often don’t get enough water on their own. Thus, these delicious beverages may increase their fluid intake while providing them with a wealth of essential nutrients.
Choosing Healthy Treats
What actually makes a treat healthy when you examine it? As this might signify various things to different cats, let’s take a look at some distinct elements.
Free of Fillers
Science has shown throughout time that food fillers are unhealthy. They could not only lack nutrients but also be improper physiologically for your dogs. A excellent approach to prevent this is to purchase treats that are devoid of ingredients like maize, wheat, soy, and by-products.
Farm-Raised Meats
Steroids, antibiotics, and other potentially dangerous substances are often absent from farm-raised meats and protein sources. Additionally, they are often more compassionate in their farming, which is a major comfort for owners who care about the environment.
Free of GMOs
It has been shown that pet food often contains ingredients that are genetically engineered. The natural health of your cat is improved with wholesome, GMO-free food.
Low-Calorie Recipes
Choosing low-calorie alternatives is a great approach to offer your cat something enjoyable while watching intake if you’re attempting to manage their weight. In order to cut calories that are superfluous or empty, several commercial snacks have been particularly created.
Conclusion
Again, the fact that Smalls Giblet Niblets only include one ingredient and are wonderfully beneficial for people of all ages is why we enjoyed them so much. They look to taste very delicious, and your cat will benefit from having a healthy snack.
Try the Greenies Feline Oven Roasted Chicken treats if you want to save costs. Your cat will enjoy a yummy treat while getting a breath freshener.
We hope you’ve narrowed down your alternatives a bit to save some time, regardless of what you think is the greatest choice.