FAQ: Treats for cats

Many treats suit kittens too, but only if the pack does not say otherwise and the pieces are not too large or hard. Functional and senior-cat treats are best given to kittens only after asking a vet.

Older cats often do better with soft, lickable or easy-to-chew treats, especially if they have dental problems. If a senior cat has kidney disease or another chronic illness, discuss which treats are suitable with a vet.

Strong-smelling or lickable treats sometimes stimulate appetite, but a lasting drop in appetite in an older cat should be checked by a vet. Treats cannot replace a complete food.

Cats with kidney disease are often put on a special diet, so ordinary treats may not be suitable because of their protein or phosphorus content. Decide with the vet which treats can be given and how many.

Veterinary diets only work when followed strictly, so even small treats can get in the way. Ask the vet whether treats made for that diet, or a portion of the diet food itself, can be used as a reward.

Yes, but in smaller amounts and with their calories counted in the daily allowance. Low-calorie treats can be broken into tiny pieces, and part of the usual dry food can be used as a reward.

Signs of too many treats include weight gain, refusing its usual food and constant begging. Add up how many treats the cat gets per day from all family members and stick to the amount stated on the pack.

Low-calorie treats help avoid exceeding the calorie allowance, but they do not slim a cat on their own. The key to weight loss is the right amount of food and activity, and major excess weight should only be reduced on a vet's plan.

Neutered cats often gain weight more easily, so lower-calorie treats and smaller amounts suit them. Special treats are not essential as long as the amounts stay moderate.

Stop giving that treat and watch the cat: a one-off upset often passes on its own. If vomiting or diarrhoea keeps happening, or the cat is lethargic, not eating or not drinking, see a vet without delay.

Yes, some cats develop a sensitivity to certain proteins, such as chicken, beef or fish. Itching, skin problems or frequent digestive upsets are a reason to see a vet, who can help find the cause.

The first time, give just one small piece and watch the next day for any digestive upset. If all is well, you can gradually increase the amount up to what the pack states.

A sensitive stomach often does better with treats that have a short ingredient list and a single protein, such as freeze-dried meat. Introduce new treats a little at a time and discuss ongoing digestive problems with a vet.

Cats with diabetes need consistent feeding and carbohydrate intake, so treats can affect treatment. Always check with a vet whether treats can be given and which ones.

Cats with urinary problems are often put on a special diet whose mineral balance treats can upset. Only give such a cat treats the vet recommends and follow their instructions.

First check what is listed first: ideally a specific meat or fish. It is also worth looking at sugar, artificial colours, the calorie content and the recommended daily amount.

It is a general term a manufacturer uses for various animal raw materials without necessarily naming which ones. If you need to know the exact meat, for example because of a cat's sensitivity, choose treats with specifically named ingredients.

Sugar or caramel is sometimes added for texture, colour or preservation, even though cats cannot taste sweetness. Cats do not need it, so if you have the choice, pick treats without added sugar.

Permitted colours are used within the rules, but colour means nothing to a cat, which chooses by smell. Colourful treats are mostly for the owner's eye, so simpler products may suit sensitive cats better.

The pack often gives the energy value in kilocalories per kilogram or per treat. Compare how many calories the cat gets from the whole amount you give, because a small but fatty treat can have more calories than a larger one.