Natural Cat Treats: The Complete Guide to Choosing Wisely

Treats represent 5 to 10% of your cat's caloric intake. Poorly chosen, they can unbalance their diet. Well-chosen, they strengthen your bond and support their health.

The Cat: An Obligate Carnivore

Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesize certain essential amino acids (taurine, arginine) and are entirely dependent on animal proteins. Treats based on cereals or sugars provide them with empty calories and can promote obesity and and diabetes.

Ingredients to Prioritize

• Identified animal proteins as the first ingredient (chicken, tuna, salmon, duck)
• Protein content greater than 60%
• Carbohydrate content less than 10%
• Short ingredient list (5-8 ingredients maximum)

Ingredients to Avoid

• Added sugars or glucose syrup
• Unidentified animal by-products
• Artificial colors and flavors
• Propylene glycol (common in semi-moist treats)

The Best Categories

Freeze-dried snacks: pure chicken or duck, 90% protein, 0% additives. Meat puree tubes (like Churu): hydration + protein, ideal for administering medication. Freeze-dried single-protein kibble: pure salmon, tuna, or shrimp.