Cat treats are great for bonding, training and giving medicine, but they should stay a small part of the diet: veterinary guidance says treats should make up no more than about 10% of a cat’s daily calories. This guide explains how many cat treats to give, which types suit which moments, and how to use them without upsetting a balanced diet.
How many cat treats per day?
The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) advises keeping treats to no more than about 10% of daily calories, so that the complete food still provides most of the nutrition. In practice, this means a few small treats a day, not a handful. For example, if you give several treats, reduce the main meal slightly. If you are unsure about your cat’s daily calories, ask your vet.
Types of cat treats and when to use them
- Creamy treats: soft and lickable, which makes them useful for bonding, for hiding a tablet, or for cats that find hard treats difficult.
- Bites: small pieces that are easy to portion for training and rewards.
- Sticks: a longer treat that you can break into smaller pieces.
Tips for giving cat treats
First, keep treats small and count them within the day. Second, use them with a purpose, such as rewarding calm behaviour or a vet visit. Third, introduce a new treat gradually and watch how your cat reacts. Finally, always keep fresh water available, and remember that treats do not replace a complete food. Our guide on how to feed a kitten covers the main diet.
Cat treats from RICH
- Rich Excellence Creamy Treat in chicken, tuna, salmon, and tuna & shrimp. The guaranteed analysis per kg lists crude protein of at least 14.2%, plus omega-3 (fish oil) and vitamins A, D3 and E. See the product.
Browse the full treats range for cats, or read dry vs wet pet food for advice on the main diet.
For the veterinary guidance, see WSAVA: feeding treats to your cat.
Shops and distributors can ask for wholesale prices on WhatsApp (+20 111 113 4568) or through the contact page.
Frequently asked questions
How many treats can I give my cat a day?
Keep treats to no more than about 10% of your cat’s daily calories. In practice, that is usually a few small treats a day.
Are cat treats a complete food?
Most cat treats are complementary, not complete. They should be given alongside a complete cat food, not instead of it.
What are creamy cat treats good for?
Creamy, lickable treats are useful for bonding, for hiding a tablet, and for cats that find hard treats difficult to eat.
Can kittens have cat treats?
Yes, in small amounts, as long as most of their nutrition comes from a complete kitten food.
Should I reduce my cat’s food if I give treats?
Yes. If you give several treats in a day, reduce the main meal slightly so the total calories stay balanced.