Cats can be selective about food, so finding a treat they love feels like a small victory. Treats are a lovely way to bond, reward calm behaviour and make vet visits or grooming a little easier. The key is choosing the right treat and keeping portions small.
Key Takeaways
- Treats should make up less than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
- Choose treats made for pets, with a short, clear ingredient list.
- Break treats into small pieces — cats prefer small bites.
- Introduce new treats one at a time and in small amounts.
- Treats add variety; they never replace a complete and balanced cat food.
What Makes a Good Cat Treat?
Cats are meat-eaters, and most cats are drawn to treats with a strong meaty aroma. When you compare treats, look for:
- Clear ingredients. You should be able to tell exactly what is inside. Single-ingredient treats make this easy.
- No added salt, spices, onion or garlic. Seasonings meant for people have no place in a cat treat.
- The right size and texture. Pieces should be small enough for your cat to eat comfortably.
- Easy portioning. Treats you can crumble or break are easier to keep within a sensible daily amount.
Not sure how to compare products? Our guide on reading pet food labels walks you through what to check.
How Many Treats Can a Cat Have Per Day?
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) advises that treats make up less than 10% of a cat’s daily calorie intake. Cats are small, so that is not much — WSAVA’s own figures put it at roughly 18–28 kcal of treats a day for an average healthy adult cat weighing 2.5–7 kg.
| Cat weight | Approximate treat allowance per day* |
|---|---|
| 2.5 kg | about 18 kcal |
| 7 kg | about 28 kcal |
*From WSAVA guidance on feeding treats to cats, for healthy adult cats at an ideal weight. Your vet can help if your cat needs to lose weight.
In practice, that means a few small pieces rather than a handful. Check the feeding guide on the pack, and remember to count every extra — including treats used to hide tablets.
🐾 Quick Tip Crumble a freeze-dried treat over your cat’s usual meal. You get the excitement of a treat with only a few pieces.
Treat Ideas Cats Enjoy
Freeze-dried single-ingredient treats
Freeze-drying removes moisture while keeping the natural aroma of the meat, which many cats find hard to resist. Savanna™ Chicken Liver and Kuku Bites™ can be broken into tiny pieces that suit a cat’s small mouth.
A sprinkle of bone broth
A little Kuku Broth™ Powder mixed with warm water and poured over food adds aroma and moisture to a meal. Use a small amount and include it in your cat’s daily extras. Read more in our bone broth guide.
Plain cooked chicken
Small pieces of plain, boneless cooked chicken can be an occasional treat. Leave out the salt, spices and sauces, and never give cooked bones.
Using Treats for Bonding and Training
Cats can learn with rewards too. Treats can help your cat become comfortable with being handled, sitting in a carrier or coming when called.
- Reward the behaviour you want straight away.
- Keep sessions very short — a minute or two is plenty.
- Stop if your cat seems stressed or loses interest.
- Mix in other rewards your cat enjoys, such as play or a gentle chin scratch.
Introducing a New Treat
Offer one new treat at a time, starting with a small piece. If it doesn’t agree with your cat, stop giving it. If your cat turns down a new treat, don’t force it — try again another day. A cat that suddenly stops eating its regular meals, though, should be checked by your vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats eat chicken treats every day? Yes, in small amounts that stay within the 10% guideline, alongside a complete and balanced cat food.
Can I give my cat dog treats? It is best to choose treats labelled for cats, or single-ingredient treats suitable for both dogs and cats, so the size and ingredients suit your cat.
Are freeze-dried treats good for cats? Freeze-dried single-ingredient treats are a popular choice because they are aromatic, light and easy to break into small pieces.
Can treats replace my cat’s food? No. Treats add variety and fun, but your cat’s main diet should be a complete and balanced food.
Continue Learning
- How Many Treats Can I Give My Dog Per Day?
- Bone Broth for Dogs and Cats: Benefits, How Much to Give & How to Serve It
- Chicken Liver for Dogs: Benefits, Risks & How Much to Feed
- How to Read a Pet Food Label: 10 Things Every Kenyan Pet Parent Should Check
Treat with Care
A small, well-chosen treat goes a long way with a cat. Keep portions modest, choose simple ingredients, and enjoy the moments it creates.
Treat allowances are based on WSAVA guidance on feeding treats to cats. This article is educational and not a substitute for individualised veterinary advice.