What Are The Best Treats For Picky Cats?

Ever been excited to spoil your loyal cat companion with a brand-new treat, only to offer it out and be met with a sniff and a look of contempt? If this sounds all too familiar, don’t worry. If your cat’s on the picky side, you already know how tough it can be to find treats for fussy cats

We’ve rounded up everything you need to help you choose the right treats and finally earn that tail flick of approval. 

If your cat turns their nose up at everything, try some of the tactics below. 

Every cat is different 

The reality is that all cats are different, and they can have very specific tastes and preferences when it comes to treats. While one kind of treat can make some kitties chirp with excitement, others might respond with the dreaded snub. When you’ve got a fussy cat, it feels like they’re impossible to please. The trick is to pay attention to your cat’s tastes and pick treats that really appeal to them.

This guide will help you to understand why cats can be fussy, what treats are irresistible to cats, and the different types of picky cat treats you can try.

Why cats can be fussy with treats

Not all cats are created equally. Most are fussy; however, some are far fussier than others, and there’s often more behind those sniff-and-dismiss moments. But why? A lot of it comes down to cats relying more on their sense of smell than taste. If the treat in question doesn’t smell quite right to them, there’s a good chance it will be ignored altogether.

Sensitivity comes into play, too. Elderly cats who have dental issues or lack teeth may struggle to crunch down on tougher treats, while kittens might avoid anything that feels too rough. Cats with delicate stomachs might take a whiff of some treats and decide it’s too rich for them. 

There are many reasons why your cat might be picky with treats, so it’s up to you to play pet detective and figure out what it is they’ll really like. 

What kind of treats do fussy cats like? 

Well, this all depends on your cat. For some, strong fish or meaty aromas will drive them wild, and the smellier, the better! Of course, this isn’t the case for all cats. Others may be obsessed with texture – whether that’s treats that pack a decent crunch, a soft, lickable snack, or a chewy stick they can gnaw on. Or, you might have a cat that rejects pretty much everything unless it’s the exact shape, size and temperature that they’re used to. 

Here are some tips for finding the purrfect treat:

• Trial a few different options and observe. 
• Mix up treat flavours such as fish, meat and poultry. 
• Try different textures, including soft and crunchy treats. 
• Offer treats in various sizes. 
• Try hand feeding if no luck with scattering treats. 

You might find that your cat enjoys nibbling at one treat and walks away from another. It’s worth making a mental note of their likes and dislikes. If you’re likely to forget, write it down on paper or on your phone. 

While it might feel like a bit of a slog to begin with, there are so many different cat treats to try, and we’re confident there’s at least one that your fussy cat will love!

What to do when your cat isn’t motivated by treats

Treats alone aren’t always enough to motivate some picky cats. Don’t worry, though; it might just mean your furry friend needs something extra to pique some curiosity and excitement. 

Cats Protection advises combining dry treats with enrichment like puzzle feeders to give your cat some mental stimulation. It’s also worth looking at treat balls or snuffle mats, which turn snack time into a fun challenge.

If your cat’s in one of those ‘not today, thanks’ moods, patience really is your best friend. It may take a little bit of time to generate some interest, but don’t give up. Offer treats with puzzle feeders, balls or mats during relaxed times and rotate the types of treats you offer until you find one that works.

Types of treats that work for fussy cats 

You adore your cat, of course – but let’s be real, they can be one of the harshest food critics you’ll ever meet. Every cat has a different personality, and when it comes to treats, variety really is the spice of life. What one cat loves may not be a hit with another, so bear in mind that it’s often a bit of trial and error when finding favourite treats for picky cats. 

Check out some of the options below and see what works for your furry fusspot:

Flavours – With chicken, beef, cheese, catnip , salmon, cat grass and yoghurt flavours on offer, there’s something that every cat will love. 

Soft – Super gentle on teeth, soft snacks like Lick-e-Soups and Lick-e-Lix work well for cats of all ages, but especially for seniors who may struggle with tougher treats.  

Crunchy – Some cats just love a good snap. Cheese Flavoured Pocketfuls are a small treat packed with big love – crunchy on the outside, mmmm on the inside. 

Chewy – If your cat enjoys having a gnaw, it’s worth trying them on a chewy treat like Tasty Sticks. 

Freeze-dried – These treats are like little flavour bombs that many cats find irresistible. They’re available in meaty and fishy forms. 

Protein – Real meat or fish treats appeal to a cat’s natural instincts and are usually the easiest way to gauge interest from fussy felines. They might prefer these over fruit or yoghurt flavours. 

Low-calorie – If you’ve got a chonky cat or just want to keep your cat’s diet on track with a healthy occasional snack, low-calorie cat treats are your go-to!

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered what to feed an extremely picky cat, you hopefully now have a few ideas. Think about the flavour, size, texture, and shape of food your cat already enjoys, and if they love a strong aroma, use that to your advantage. Treats are a brilliant way to connect with your cat and create little moments that make them purr again and again. Give it a bit of time and the right treats, and you might be rewarded with a little chirp, a tail flick or that unmistakable bliss face of approval.

FAQs/People Also Ask..

How many treats should I feed my picky cat? 

Treats are exactly what the name suggests. They should be offered as little extras and never in excess or used as a substitute for a main meal. Generally, a couple of treats here and there is more than enough. Too many can cause weight gain, so it’s worth reducing their daily allowance of regular food to compensate for the extra calories. Our best advice? Offer treats sparingly for some special moments with your furry friend. 

Why does my cat lick some treats but not eat them? 

Just like us, your cat has their own likes and dislikes when it comes to food. It’s not unusual for them to lick a treat once or twice before trotting off in an unamused fashion. This is just your cat’s way of taste-testing something to see if it’s worth eating. There are a few things that help cats decide whether to fully commit to the treat in front of them, including aroma, texture, and temperature. While it can feel a little frustrating, it’s a completely normal way for cats to try new treats.

Should I keep offering a treat if my cat doesn’t like it? 

If your fussy feline’s turned its nose up at the latest treats you’ve bought, step back and give them some space. Don’t follow them around the house, beckoning them with the treats. Instead, try offering them again another day when your cat is feeling relaxed. As we all know, cats are notoriously stubborn, but can be easily swayed when the mood strikes! 

Are treats a good way to train my cat? 

Yes, treats are an excellent way to train your cat, especially if they’re fussy. Keep sessions short and relaxed, and remember that cats will always set the pace! Over time, these little treats will help the pair of you develop an unbreakable bond.

What treats are irresistible to cats? 

Most cats won’t be able to resist the temptation of soft, moist treats like Lick-e-Lix. Super creamy, low in calories and full of flavour, they’re a delicious way to spoil fussy felines. They’re also a handy option for senior cats, especially those with fewer teeth who struggle with crunchy treats. 

Will a picky cat eventually eat? 

Yes, but it’s all about finding something your cat enjoys and patience from your side. Even a sniff, nibble, or tiny prod with those cute toe beans counts as progress, and a treat they ignore today might be their new favourite tomorrow. Most picky cats will be won over if you keep experimenting with flavours, textures, and timing.

What happens if my cat stops eating their regular food?

If you notice that your cat has stopped eating completely, has lost weight or doesn’t seem like themselves, make an appointment to see your vet. While fussy eating can be a personality quirk, sudden changes may signal a health issue. 

Get your paws on your cat’s new favourite snack today! Check out Webbox’s top choice of tasty cat treats, with everything from crunchy and soft options to chewy, freeze-dried, low-calorie, and much more.