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are cat treats healthy? a veterinarian’s guide to treating safely
Giving your cat a treat is one of the simplest ways to show love, and most cat owners want to be sure they’re doing it right. Cat treats can be safe, enjoyable, and even beneficial when they’re chosen thoughtfully and used in moderation.
Treats aren’t a required part of feline nutrition, but when used responsibly, they can support bonding, enrichment, and positive daily routines. Understanding what’s in your cat’s treats — and how often to offer them — makes all the difference. Your Banfield veterinary team can recommend treat options for your cat’s age, lifestyle, and health needs. Make an appointment
The role of treats in a cat’s diet
From a nutrition point of view, cats don’t need treats to stay healthy; their regular food already provides everything they need. But let’s be honest — treats are a great way to bond, add a little excitement to the day, and make life more fun for your cat.
A good rule of thumb: treats should make up no more than about 10% of your cat’s daily calories. Many adult cats need somewhere around 180–220 calories a day, though that can shift based on age, size, and activity level. If you’re unsure what’s right for your cat, your veterinarian can give you guidance.
What makes a cat treat healthy or unhealthy?
Not all treats are created equal. Understanding quality ingredients can help you choose healthier treats for your kitten.
Signs of healthier cat treats include:
- High protein content with meat listed first
- Limited fillers (grains/starches, sugars, thickeners)
- No artificial colors or preservatives
- Clear, transparent ingredient lists
- Optional functional benefits, such as hairball support
- Sourced from a reputable company with high standards for quality control
Potential red flags to watch for:
- Excess sodium or added sugars
- Artificial dyes
- High carbohydrate content
Ingredient transparency matters. When labels are clear and specific, it’s easier to know what you’re feeding your cat.
Understanding calories and portion control
Treat calories can add up faster than many owners expect, especially for smaller cats. Even a few extra calories a day can contribute to weight gain over time.
For example, a typical 10-pound adult cat may need about 200 calories per day. Many commercial treats contain 2–5 calories per piece, so just a handful can quickly go over the recommended amount.
Tip: Keep a small portion of your cat’s regular kibble to use as treats to avoid feeding them too much.
Types of cat treats (and how to choose)
Crunchy and dry treats
These are often marketed for dental health, but only treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) have demonstrated dental benefits. Others may still be enjoyable but shouldn’t be relied on for oral care.
Soft and chewy treats
A good option for senior cats or those with dental discomfort. These treats are easier to chew and often more appealing for cats with sensitive mouths.
Lickable treats
Highly palatable and helpful for bonding or hydration. Because cats may consume these quickly, it’s important to watch portion sizes and sodium content.
Freeze-dried and single-ingredient treats
Often simple and protein-rich, these treats can be a healthy choice but should never replace a balanced diet. Avoid raw products, as they can carry harmful bacteria.
Dental treats
Choose only VOHC-approved products. While helpful, dental treats are not a substitute for brushing or professional dental care.
Functional treats (calming, hairball, etc.)
These may support wellness, but they don’t replace prescribed diets or medications. Always check with your veterinarian if your cat has an underlying condition.
Treats for different cats: tailored recommendations
For kittens
Kittens can usually begin having treats once they’re eating solid food, but keep portions very small. Choose soft textures and avoid ones that could be a choking hazard. Treats should complement, not replace, a balanced kitten diet.
For senior cats
Older cats may enjoy softer treats that are easier to chew. Depending on weight and activity level, your veterinarian may recommend higher-calorie options for underweight cats or lower-calorie options for less active cats.
For cats with health conditions
- Weight management: Low-calorie, high-protein treats
- Kidney disease: Avoid high-phosphorus treats
- Food allergies: Limited-ingredient or hydrolyzed options
- Diabetes: Avoid high-carbohydrate treats and consult your veterinarian
Remember that for any cat, moderation is important. Your veterinarian can help you find yummy and healthy options for your furry friend.
Can I give my cat human food as a treat?
We don’t recommend sharing human food with your cat, but if they sneak some of these, know they aren’t toxic to your pet.
| Generally safe if they get their paws on | Human foods cats should never eat | |
| Plain cooked chicken or turkey | ||
| Fully cooked, plain scrambled eggs | ||
| Cheese in very small amounts, if tolerated | ||
| Onions and garlic | ||
| Chocolate | ||
| Grapes and raisins | ||
| Alcohol and caffeine | ||
| High-fat meats | ||
Human-grade foods can be unsafe if they contain excess salt, fat, seasonings, or allergens. Read more about what foods your pet should avoid. If your cat ate some human food, and you’re not sure if it’s safe, check with your vet. Or you can ping Pet Chat™ (available in most states), which gives you 24/7 access to a veterinary professional. It’s included with all Optimum Wellness Plans®. Explore kitten plans
How many treats are too many?
Signs that your kitty is getting too many treats may include:
- Weight gain
- Less interest in regular meals
- Increased begging
- Loose stool or vomiting after certain treats
Consistently giving your cat too many treats puts them at a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and nutritional imbalances.
How treats support positive interactions
Treats can help support bonding, enrichment, and positive daily interactions. When used thoughtfully, they reinforce trust and help create enjoyable routines. Your veterinary team can help you choose treats that align with both your cat’s nutritional needs and personality.
How to read a cat treat label
A cat treat label can look confusing at first, but a few key details can tell you a lot about what you’re feeding your cat.
The ingredient list is a good place to start. Ingredients are listed in order by weight, so the first few items make up most of the treat. Seeing a named protein, like chicken or salmon, near the top is usually a better sign than vague ingredients listed first.
"Meat first" means a specific animal protein is the main ingredient by weight before processing. This can be helpful for cats, who are natural carnivores and do best with protein-forward foods. However, it’s still important to look at the rest of the ingredient list to make sure the treat isn’t padded with unnecessary fillers or additives.
The guaranteed analysis provides basic information about the treat’s nutrient content, including protein, fat, fiber, and moisture. While it doesn’t show the full nutritional picture, it can help you compare options — especially if you’re managing weight, digestion, or specific health needs. For example, higher protein and lower carbohydrate levels are often more appropriate for cats.
Artificial additives are things to watch out for. Artificial colors and flavors may be harder for some cats to tolerate. Clear, transparent labeling is usually easier to trust.
“Human grade” can sound reassuring, but it doesn't automatically mean a treat is healthy or nutritionally appropriate for cats. Even human-quality ingredients can be too salty, fatty, or unbalanced for felines.
When in doubt, your veterinary team can help you interpret labels and choose treats that fit your cat’s overall diet and health.
Healthy treat alternatives
If you want to treat your cat without adding a lot of extra calories or unnecessary ingredients, there are plenty of simple, cat-friendly options to choose from. Many healthy alternatives focus on protein, portion control, and keeping things as close to your cat’s regular diet as possible. These options can be especially helpful for cats who need to watch their weight, have sensitive stomachs, or just prefer familiar flavors.
- Small portions of regular kibble can work well as treats, especially if you set a few pieces aside from your cat’s daily meals.
- Plain, cooked meats like chicken or turkey can be offered occasionally, without seasoning, oils, or added salt.
- Hydration-focused treats, such as lickable options or broths made for cats, can support fluid intake while still feeling special.
- Home-prepared treats, when made with veterinary guidance, can be a good option for cats with allergies or specific medical needs.
For safety, it’s best to avoid raw meats, which can carry bacteria that may be harmful to both cats and people. When you’re unsure which option is best, your veterinary team can help you choose treats that fit your cat’s health and lifestyle.
Important Notice: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this page.
Cat treat FAQs
What makes a cat treat healthy or unhealthy?
A healthy treat has things simple: high protein, clear ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers or artificial colors. Treats that are heavy on sugar, salt, or vague ingredients are best saved for rare occasions, if at all.
Can kittens have treats?
Yes, but only once they’re old enough and consistently eating solid food. Stick to tiny portions, soft textures, and treats made specifically for kittens, since their bodies are still growing.
Are lickable treats safe every day?
They can be, as long as they fit into your cat’s daily calorie needs. Because they’re tasty and easy to overdo, it’s best to use them mindfully and check the sodium and calorie content.
Do dental treats really help with tartar?
Some do, but not all. Dental treats that are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) have been shown to help reduce plaque or tartar, while others are more like regular treats with good marketing.
Are over-the-counter cat treats healthy?
Many are perfectly fine, but quality varies a lot. Reading the ingredient list and calorie content can help you spot better options, and your veterinarian can help you choose treats that fit your cat’s health needs.
What should I look for on a treat label?
Look for real, recognizable protein sources listed first and avoid vague terms like “animal digest.” Fewer ingredients and clear labeling usually make it easier to know what you’re feeding.
What if my cat begs constantly for treats?
Begging is common (and can be quite convincing). Try offering treats at predictable times, using play or affection as alternatives, and making sure treats aren’t replacing balanced meals.
Can I use treats to hide medication?
Sometimes, yes. Soft or lickable treats can work well for pills, but not all medications can be given with food, so it’s best to check with your veterinarian first.
Are human foods okay as treats?
Avoid giving pets human food, as many human foods contain too much salt, fat, or seasoning for cats. Plain cooked chicken or turkey can be given occasionally. When in doubt, skip it or ask your vet.
How many treats are too many?
A good rule of thumb is to keep treats under 10% of your cat’s daily calories. If treats start affecting your cat’s weight, appetite, or digestion, it’s time to scale back.
Are lickable treats bad for cats?
Not at all — cats usually love them. Just keep an eye on portion size and frequency so they don’t crowd out more balanced nutrition.
Are dental treats good for cats?
They can be a helpful add-on for oral health, especially VOHC-approved options, but they shouldn’t replace brushing or professional dental care.
Can cat treats cause obesity?
They can if portions creep up over time. Even small treats add calories quickly, which is why moderation matters so much.
Are freeze-dried treats healthy?
No, freeze-dried treats are essentially raw meat that hasn’t been cooked to kill bacteria. Pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli can still survive the freeze-drying process, posing risks to pets and people.
Not sure what’s best for your cat?
Talk with your veterinary team about healthy treat options and how to use treats safely in your cat’s routine.
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