How to Choose Tasty and Healthy Cat Treats
By PDSA Pet Store | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: Buying Guides
Learn how to pick cat treats that are both delicious and nutritious. We cover texture, ingredients, calorie content, and special needs like calming or dental care.
Quick Answer
The best cat treat is one your cat loves and that fits their health needs—whether that's a low-calorie lickable snack like Webbox Lick-e-lix, a crunchy Dreamies bite, or a calming option like Feliway Happy Snacks.
Texture Matters: Lickable vs. Crunchy
Cats have strong preferences when it comes to texture. Some adore smooth, lickable purees that are easy to eat and can be used as a food topper or a way to hide medication. Others crave a satisfying crunch from a crispy shell with a soft center.
Lickable treats are also great for cats with dental sensitivities or older felines who struggle to chew. Crunchy treats, on the other hand, can provide a bit of dental scrubbing action, though they are not a substitute for brushing.
Calories and Ingredients: What to Look For
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily calorie intake. Look for options that are low in fat and calories, and free from wheat and grains if your cat has sensitivities. Also, check for added sugars, preservatives, or artificial colorants—many quality treats skip these entirely.
For example, Webbox Lick-e-lix is low in fat and calories, wheat and grain free, and contains 'no nasties.' Dreamies treats are made with natural ingredients and include vitamins and minerals, making them a balanced between-meal snack.
Special Needs: Calming and Beyond
Some treats go beyond simple nutrition. If your cat gets anxious during travel, vet visits, or thunderstorms, a calming treat like Feliway Happy Snacks contains alpha-casozepine, a natural milk protein that helps soothe stress. These are also free from added sugar, preservatives, and colorants.
Always consider your cat's specific health profile. For example, if your cat is on a restricted diet due to allergies or weight management, check the ingredient list carefully and consult your vet if unsure.
Decision Rules for Choosing Cat Treats
- Texture preference: If your cat loves licking and you need versatility, choose lickable treats like Webbox Lick-e-lix. If they enjoy crunching, go for Dreamies with a crispy shell and soft center. Watch how your cat eats: licking vs. chewing can guide your next purchase.
- Calorie and ingredient check: Read the label for calorie content and ingredients. Opt for treats that are low in fat and calories, free from wheat and grains if needed, and without added sugars, preservatives, or artificial colorants. Keep treats to under 10% of daily calories to avoid weight gain.
- Special health needs: If your cat is anxious, consider calming treats like Feliway Happy Snacks. For dental health, crunchy treats can help, but they are not a replacement for brushing. Match the treat to your cat's specific needs, not just taste.
Product Facts
- Webbox Lick-e-lix Cat Treats - Salmon: Webbox Lick-e-lix is a smooth, lickable snack in single-serve sachets that is low in fat and calories, wheat and grain free, and contains no nasties. Perfect for guilt-free daily treats, food toppers, or hiding medication, especially for cats with grain sensitivities.
Webbox Lick-e-lix Cat Treats - Salmon - Dreamies Mix Salmon and Cheese Cat Treats: Dreamies Mix Salmon and Cheese has a crispy shell with a creamy center, made with natural ingredients and enriched with vitamins and minerals. Offers a satisfying crunch and balanced nutrition, making it a great between-meal reward for active cats.
Dreamies Mix Salmon and Cheese Cat Treats
Which Treat Fits Your Cat?
Best for
- Cats who love smooth, lickable snacks and need a low-calorie option
- Cats who enjoy crunchy textures and need a balanced, vitamin-enriched treat
Not for
- Cats with severe dental issues who cannot chew crunchy treats
- Cats on a strict veterinary diet that requires avoiding all treats
