Healthy Cat Treats: What to Give, How Many and What to Avoid

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Treats are a lovely way to bond with a cat, reward good behavior and make unpleasant tasks easier. They can also quietly add pounds. A little planning keeps treats healthy and fun.

How many treats are too many?

Treats should be about ten percent or less of daily calories. For an average ten-pound adult cat that needs roughly 200 to 250 calories a day, that is only 20 to 25 calories. Many commercial treats contain two to five calories each, but some contain much more. Check the label, and subtract treats from meals if needed. See how much should I feed my cat.

For overweight cats, be even stricter. See how to help an overweight cat lose weight.

Choosing commercial treats

Look for:

• A named protein as the main ingredient
• Few additives and no artificial colors
• Small size, or the ability to break into pieces
• A calorie count on the label
• Freeze-dried or single-ingredient options, which are often low in additives

Dental treats may help reduce plaque, but they add calories. See cat dental disease.

Safe human-food treats

In small amounts, many cats can eat:

• Plain cooked chicken. See can cats eat chicken.
• Plain cooked turkey or lean beef
• Small bits of cooked fish, or tuna in moderation. See can cats eat tuna.
• Cooked egg
• A small piece of cooked pumpkin

Keep portions tiny, skip seasoning, remove bones and offer only occasionally.

Foods to avoid

• Chocolate and caffeine. See is chocolate toxic to cats and is caffeine toxic to cats
• Onions and garlic. See are onions and garlic toxic to cats
• Grapes and raisins. See are grapes and raisins toxic to cats
• Anything with xylitol. See is xylitol toxic to cats
• Alcohol. See is alcohol dangerous for cats
• Raw dough, bones and fatty scraps. See can cats eat bones
• Milk and most dairy, which many cats cannot digest. See can cats drink milk

If your cat eats something toxic, call a vet or poison helpline at once. See the emergency warning signs guide.

Using treats for training

Cats can learn commands, such as sit, come and go into the carrier, using rewards.

1. Choose a tiny, soft, smelly treat.
2. Reward immediately after the behavior.
3. Practice in short sessions.
4. Use a clicker or a word marker.
5. Fade treats gradually as the behavior becomes reliable.

Training builds confidence and strengthens the bond.

Using treats for health care

Treats can make vet visits, nail trims and brushing easier. They can also help with medication, as in how to give a cat a pill. Pair carrier training with treats, as in how to travel with a cat by car.

Using treats for enrichment

Hide treats in puzzle feeders, treat balls and cardboard tubes to encourage natural hunting behavior. Use part of the daily kibble ration instead of extra food. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.

When treats become a problem

Warning signs include weight gain, a cat that refuses meals but begs for treats, begging that escalates and treat use to solve every behavior problem. Replace food with play, attention and routines.

Treats and medical conditions

Cats with diabetes, kidney disease, allergies or urinary problems may need special treats or none at all. Ask your vet. See diabetes in cats and chronic kidney disease in cats.

Making your own treats

Simple homemade treats include tiny pieces of cooked chicken or turkey, a few flakes of cooked fish or a little cooked egg. Cook without oil, salt, onion, garlic or seasoning, and cut pieces smaller than a pea. Freeze small portions and thaw a few at a time. Remember that homemade treats still count toward daily calories, and cats with medical conditions may need approved snacks only.

Treat timing

Give treats at predictable times, such as after play, and avoid giving them in response to begging or meowing. This keeps the treat meaningful and prevents unwanted habits.

Storing treats

Keep treats in sealed containers, away from curious cats, and check expiry dates. Wash hands after handling raw or fresh treats, and discard anything that smells off.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.