Nov. 26, 2025
At Wervic, we believe that cat treats are more than just a way to bond with your feline companion—they can be a tool for training, enrichment, and even supplemental nutrition, when used wisely. However, overfeeding or choosing the wrong treats can lead to weight gain, nutritional imbalances, or picky eating habits. Below is our expert guide to feeding cat treats responsibly, ensuring your cat enjoys rewards without compromising their health.
Why Treats Matter (and Where They Fit in Your Cat’s Diet)
Treats play a valuable role in feline care: they reinforce positive behavior (e.g., using a scratching post instead of furniture), provide mental stimulation during play, and strengthen the bond between you and your cat. That said, treats should never replace a complete, balanced main diet. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends that treats make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake—this ensures they still get all essential nutrients from their primary food.
Key Rules for Feeding Cat Treats
1. Stick to a Strict Calorie Limit
Calculate your cat’s daily calorie needs (based on age, weight, and activity level) and cap treats at 10% of this total. For example, a 4.5kg adult indoor cat needs about 250 calories per day—so treats should not exceed 25 calories daily. Avoid "free feeding" treats; instead, portion them out in advance to prevent overindulgence.
2. Choose Nutritionally Sound Options
Opt for treats made with high-quality, cat-specific ingredients (e.g., real meat, fish, or poultry as the first ingredient). Steer clear of treats with artificial preservatives, added sugars, or fillers like corn, wheat, or soy—these offer little nutritional value and may trigger sensitivities. For cats with dietary restrictions (e.g., kidney issues, allergies), select vet-approved therapeutic treats to avoid exacerbating health issues.
3. Time Treats Strategically
Use treats as part of a routine: reward good behavior immediately (e.g., after nail trimming), incorporate them into play (e.g., hiding treats in puzzle feeders), or offer a small piece as a post-meal "dessert" (in moderation). Avoid giving treats right before mealtime, as this can reduce appetite for their nutritionally complete main food and lead to picky eating.
4. Adjust for Special Needs
Kittens under 6 months old have growing bodies and specific nutrient needs—limit treats to small, soft options (e.g., freeze-dried meat bits) and keep portions tiny (1–2 pieces per day). Senior cats or overweight cats may need low-calorie, high-fiber treats to support weight management. Pregnant or nursing cats can have slightly more treats (still within the 10% calorie rule) to meet increased energy demands, but consult your vet first.
Red Flags to Avoid
Never feed your cat human snacks (e.g., chocolate, onions, dairy, or salty foods)—these are toxic or hard to digest. Avoid using treats as a "quick fix" for boredom; pair treat time with interactive play to keep your cat mentally and physically active. If your cat refuses their main food in favor of treats, pause all treats for 1–2 days to reset their appetite.
At Wervic, our range of cat treats is formulated to align with these guidelines—high in protein, low in unnecessary additives, and portioned for controlled feeding. When used mindfully, treats can be a joyful, healthy part of your cat’s daily life.
