We all love spoiling our cats. The head nudges, the chirpy meows, the zoomies from one end of the house to the other — how can you not want to give them a little something extra?
But here’s the truth no one tells you when you become a cat parent: too many treats can derail your cat’s diet faster than you think.
Back when we first started raising Bengals, we learned this lesson quickly. These cats are smart, active, and eager to snack — and when you’re training, bonding, or just showing affection, it’s easy to slip them one too many. What began as a sweet reward turned into sneaky weight gain and some sluggish energy.
That was our cue to clean up our treat game.
Here’s what we now recommend — vet-approved, Bengal-tested, and perfectly aligned with the balanced nutrition principles we share in Feed the Cat Better 🐾
What Makes a Cat Treat Healthy?
When we talk about healthy cat treats, we’re looking for:
- ✅ Real animal protein (cats are obligate carnivores)
- ✅ Low-calorie content per serving
- ✅ No corn, soy, wheat, or fillers
- ✅ No artificial flavors or colors
- ✅ Bonus points for functional benefits (hydration, dental health, etc.)
And remember: treats should never make up more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
1. PureBites Freeze-Dried Chicken
The verdict: Clean, simple, and wildly popular
Made with one ingredient — 100% chicken — these treats are our go-to for training sessions and rewarding good behavior.
Pros:
- High in protein
- Grain-free and additive-free
- Great for cats with sensitivities
Cons:
- A little crumbly — we keep them in a glass jar to contain the mess
🌟 These are our default treat in the cattery when kittens are learning recall.
2. Greenies Dental Treats
The verdict: A crunchy treat with a side of dental support
While they don’t replace brushing, Greenies help reduce tartar and give your cat something satisfying to bite into.
Pros:
- Promotes oral hygiene
- Easy to portion
- Cats love the crunch
Cons:
- Not all cats take to them right away
- Some formulas contain grains (always check labels)
🦷 We use these in moderation — usually once a day, post-meal, when cats are winding down.
3. Inaba Churu Lickable Treats
The verdict: Messy, but magical
These soft purée treats are packed with flavor and hydration. Excellent for picky eaters or for sneaking in supplements.
Pros:
- Great hydration boost
- Low in calories
- No artificial preservatives
Cons:
- Can get messy if your cat likes to “paint” with their food
- Not ideal for daily use (they’re addictive!)
💧 We often recommend Churus for cats recovering from illness or with low water intake.
4. Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnows
The verdict: Whole-prey style, high-protein payoff
These tiny, crunchy minnows are as close to a wild snack as it gets — but they’re definitely an acquired taste (and smell).
Pros:
- Single-ingredient
- High-protein and biologically appropriate
- Encourages natural chewing instincts
Cons:
- Strong fish smell
- Not a favorite for every cat
🐟 Our Bengals either love these or give us the side-eye. But for the fans, nothing else compares.
5. Wellness Kittles Crunchy Treats
The verdict: Balanced and easy
A crowd-pleasing everyday treat made with real meat and low calories.
Pros:
- Grain-free options
- Real meat as the first ingredient
- Widely available and affordable
Cons:
- More ingredients than our other picks
- Slightly less protein-dense
🍗 These are ideal for rotating into the treat jar when you’re trying to add variety.
Treating Tips from the Cattery
- 🍽️ Measure your portions. Don’t eyeball — especially if your cat is already on a feeding plan.
- 🐾 Use treats intentionally. Training, crate practice, travel prep, bonding — not boredom or guilt.
- ❄️ Store smart. Freeze-dried treats can lose quality if left open. Transfer to airtight jars when possible.
And if you’re ever unsure what fits into your cat’s broader diet? That’s exactly what we cover in Feed the Cat Better — from choosing the right base meals to integrating treats in a way that supports your cat’s health and habits.
Final Thoughts: Spoil Smart
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with giving your cat a treat — especially when it’s one that supports their well-being.
With just a few smart swaps, you can move from empty-calorie snacks to protein-packed bites that fuel energy, improve digestion, and keep those mealtime zoomies going strong.
Because at Brigite’s Bengals, we don’t believe in skipping treats. We believe in treating better.