Are you searching for the purr-fect way to pamper your feline friend beyond the usual crunchy bites? Step into the world of Cat Squeeze Treats, a delightful innovation in pet snacks that’s adding excitement and nourishment to cats’ lives. These creamy indulgences are not just a novel way to treat your cat’s taste buds; they also bring a range of health and behavioral advantages.
After careful consideration of ingredient quality, ease of serving, and, most importantly, my own cats’ enthusiastic responses, Tiki Cat Stix Chicken & Shrimp in Creamy Gravy emerges as the top choice for the best cat squeeze treats available.
Discover the Best Cat Squeeze Treats: Top 7 Picks
Want a quick guide to the best cat squeeze treats featured in this article? Below is a snapshot highlighting key features of each product. Keep reading for detailed insights on each treat later in the article.
Overall Best
Tiki Cat Stix Chicken & Shrimp in Creamy Gravy
Tiki Cat Stix Chicken & Shrimp in Creamy Gravy
- High moisture and protein content
- Irresistible flavor for cats
Runner-Up
Inaba Churu Chicken with Crab Puree
Inaba Churu Chicken with Crab Puree
- Enriched with Taurine & Vitamin E
- Grain-free, no artificial additives
- High in protein and moisture
Best Human-Grade Treat
Cafe Nära Tuna Flavored Lickable Treats for Cats
Cafe Nära Tuna Flavored Lickable Treats for Cats
- Made with wild-caught salmon
- Free from artificial preservatives and colors
- No wheat, corn, or soy
Best For Freezing
Nulo Freestyle Perfect Puree Variety Pack
Nulo Freestyle Perfect Puree Variety Pack
- Ideal as meal toppers due to thinner consistency
- High protein and moisture levels
Best Value
Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up Variety Pack
Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up Variety Pack
- Budget-friendly
- Contains real chicken and tuna
- Perfect texture for hand-feeding
Best For Picky Eaters
Catit Creamy Salmon Flavor Lickable Treat
Catit Creamy Salmon Flavor Lickable Treat
- Grain-free formula
- No by-products
- Affordable option
Deep Dive into Our Top Cat Squeeze Treat Picks
Why Cats.com is Your Trusted Source
At Cats.com, our dedication to feline well-being drives us to conduct thorough reviews of cat food brands and formulas. With over 200 brands and countless formulas examined, our expertise is built upon hours of researching feline nutrition, direct communication with pet food companies, and meticulous analysis of product labels. Our insights are further enriched by feedback from our own feline testers.
My selection of the following seven best cat squeeze treats is rooted in extensive research and practical experience. Each product was evaluated based on crucial factors such as protein and moisture content, ingredient appropriateness for cats, texture, and, of course, palatability.
Remember, every cat is unique, and their preferences might differ from my cats, Amber and Floyd. This guide is designed to help you consider your cat’s individual tastes and nutritional needs. With a variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients, these selected squeeze treats aim to cater to a wide range of feline preferences.
After personally purchasing and testing numerous squeeze treats with Amber and Floyd, I narrowed down the selection to seven stand-out products that meet the Cats.com Standard. My priorities were centered on high-quality ingredients and taste appeal – because even the healthiest treat is useless if your cat refuses to eat it.
While each brand presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages, I leaned towards squeeze treats with high moisture and protein levels, concise ingredient lists, and overwhelmingly positive feedback from fellow cat parents.
It’s important to note that our reviews are unbiased; we purchased these products ourselves and did not receive any compensation for favorable reviews.
Intrigued to learn how cat squeeze treats can enhance your cat’s diet? Let’s explore the benefits, key features to look for, and which cats can gain the most from these delectable treats.
What Exactly Are Cat Squeeze Treats?
Variety of cat squeeze treats tested for review
Often likened to “Go-Gurt” for felines, squeeze treats are essentially creamy, moist treats packaged in individual tubes that you squeeze to dispense. Their broad appeal comes from their adaptability – serve them as standalone treats or as a tempting addition to your cat’s regular meals. For strengthening your bond with your cat, these handheld treats are exceptional: simply open a tube and let your kitty enjoy directly from the pouch.
Cat squeeze treats are naturally high in moisture, making them an enjoyable way to help keep cats hydrated. During warmer weather, try freezing them for a refreshing, meaty “cat-sicle.” Their delicious taste and smooth texture also make them excellent for concealing medications or for training your cat. Moreover, they can be a great distraction for cats during potentially stressful situations like visits to the vet or nail trims.
Key Features of Quality Cat Squeeze Treats
Palatability and nutritional value are always paramount when choosing cat treats. However, with squeeze treats, texture becomes particularly important.
You’ll notice a spectrum of consistencies across different brands. Some are very liquid or watery, while others are thicker, almost like peanut butter. The ideal texture for you will depend on how you intend to use these treats. For direct feeding from the tube, thicker purees are generally better. For use as food toppers or when served in a dish, creamier textures work perfectly well.
Which Cats Benefit Most from Squeeze Treats?
Cat enjoying Tiki Cat Stix squeeze treat
While all cats can enjoy squeeze treats, certain cats will find them especially beneficial:
- Cats with dental issues: For cats that have difficulty with hard, crunchy treats, squeeze treats offer a soft, easy-to-eat alternative.
- Cats on dry food diets: These treats can significantly boost hydration for cats primarily eating dry kibble.
- Cats with reduced appetite or illness: The enticing flavor can encourage sick or finicky cats to eat.
- Picky eaters: Squeeze treats can be used as a flavorful topper to make regular meals more appealing.
- Underweight cats: They provide a calorie-dense snack to help cats gain weight.
- Cats who spend time alone: The interactive feeding experience provides valuable human interaction and bonding.
#1 Overall Best: Tiki Cat Stix Chicken & Shrimp in Creamy Gravy
Tiki Cat Stix Chicken & Shrimp in Creamy Gravy
Explore Our Brand Review of Tiki Cat
- Brand Name: Tiki Cat
- Made In: Thailand
- Calories per tube: 8 kcal
- Approximate cost per tube: $0.92
Getting a finicky cat to eat their meal can be a real challenge. However, Tiki Cat Stix might just be the solution. Usually, my cats patiently wait their turn for treats, but these Chicken & Shrimp squeeze treats sparked an immediate frenzy in our household. Numerous Amazon reviews echo this sentiment, with cat owners reporting their cats are equally obsessed with Tiki Stix.
Their savory flavor profile makes these squeeze treats an excellent option for cats needing encouragement to eat, whether due to age, sickness, or stress. We also believe they are ideal for masking the taste of medications.
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken broth, chicken, dried egg, shrimp, natural tuna flavor, natural chicken flavor, xanthan gum, fish extract, salt.
Ingredients We Appreciate: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Dried Egg, Shrimp
Ingredient of Concern: Salt
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 8%
Crude Fat: 1%
Crude Fiber: 0.5%
Moisture: 89%
Dry Matter Analysis
Protein: 72.73%
Fat: 9.09%
Fiber: 4.55%
Carbs: 13.64%
Caloric Distribution
Protein: 67.07%
Fat: 20.36%
Carbs: 12.57%
Pros
- High moisture and protein content
- Cats are highly attracted to the taste
Cons
- Relatively higher in calories
- Contains xanthan gum
#2 Runner-Up: Inaba Churu Chicken with Crab Puree
Inaba Churu Chicken with Crab Puree
Read Our Detailed Review of Inaba Churu Treats
- Brand Name: Inaba
- Made In: Thailand
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories per tube: 6.0 kcal
- Approximate cost per tube: $1.00
Nutritionally, Inaba Churu squeeze treats are outstanding. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, and rich in moisture and protein. Additionally, they are fortified with Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, and taurine, an essential amino acid for cats.
The consistency of these treats is perfect for mess-free, direct-from-tube feeding. My cats were particularly fond of the chicken with crab flavor, but Inaba offers a wide array of flavors to suit any feline palate. At about $1.00 per tube, they are a pricier option, especially for daily treating. However, many cat owners find the nutritional benefits justify the cost.
Ingredient Analysis
Water, Chicken, Tapioca starch, Natural Flavors, Natural Crab Flavor, Guar Gum, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Green Tea Extract.
Ingredients We Like: Chicken, Taurine
Ingredient of Concern: Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 7%
Crude Fat: 2%
Crude Fiber: 0.1%
Moisture: 91%
Dry Matter Basis
Protein: 77.78%
Fat: 22.22%
Fiber: 1.11%
Caloric Weight Basis
Protein: 59.04%
Fat: 40.96%
Pros
- Enhanced with Taurine and Vitamin E
- Made without grains, preservatives, or artificial colors
- High protein and moisture levels
Cons
- More expensive compared to other options
#3 Best Human-Grade Treat: Cafe Nära Tuna Flavored Lickable Treats for Cats
Cafe Nära Tuna Flavored Lickable Treats for Cats
- Brand Name: Cafe Nära
- Made In: Thailand
- Age Range: All life stages
- Calories per tube: 4.4 kcal
- Approximate cost per tube: $1.00
Nära, meaning “nourish” in Swedish, perfectly reflects this family-run company’s dedication to using human-grade ingredients. Cafe Nära Squeeze Treats are a wholesome, low-calorie snack packed with protein and moisture.
Cafe Nära is an excellent choice for cats with sensitivities or allergies. They are formulated without wheat, corn, and soy, and feature recipes with limited ingredients.
Ingredient Composition
Water, Tuna, Tapioca Starch, Yeast Extract, Sunflower Oil, Guar Gum.
Ingredients We Appreciate: Tuna, Sunflower Oil
Ingredient of Concern: Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 7%
Crude Fat: 1%
Moisture: 1.5%
Ash: 90%
Dry Matter Basis
Protein: 7.11%
Fat: 1.02%
Carbs: 0.51%
Caloric Weight Basis
Protein: 70.5%
Fat: 24.46%
Carbs: 5.04%
Pros
- Made with wild-caught salmon
- No artificial preservatives or colors
- Free from wheat, corn, and soy
- No added sugar or salt
Cons
- Pricier option
- Contains guar gum
#4 Best for Freezing: Nulo Freestyle Perfect Puree Variety Pack
Nulo Freestyle Perfect Puree Variety Pack
Explore Our Brand Review of Nulo
- Brand Name: Nulo
- Made In: Thailand
- Age Range: All ages
- Calories per tube: 7-9 kcal (varies by flavor)
- Approximate cost per tube: $1.00
Nulo Perfect Purees have a thinner consistency right out of the tube, making them less ideal for hand-feeding but perfect for freezing. They outperformed other squeeze treats in freezing tests, maintaining a solid, smooth texture that my cats relished as a frozen treat.
Besides making excellent “cat-sicles,” these squeeze treats are great for adding extra moisture to meals or serving in a bowl as a special snack. Added prebiotics and low-fat content are additional benefits.
Ingredient List
- Beef & Sardine: Beef Broth, Beef, Sardine, Chickpeas, Guar Gum, Tuna Extract, Inulin, Natural Flavor.
- Chicken: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chickpeas, Guar Gum, Tuna Extract, Inulin, Natural Flavor.
- Tuna & Scallop: Tuna Broth, Tuna, Chickpeas, Scallop, Guar Gum, Tuna Extract, Inulin, Natural Flavor.
- Chicken & Salmon: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Chickpeas, Salmon, Guar Gum, Tuna Extract, Inulin, Natural Flavor.
- Tuna & Crab: Tuna Broth, Tuna, Chickpeas, Crab, Guar Gum, Tuna Extract, Inulin, Natural Flavor.
Ingredients We Appreciate: Chicken, Chicken Broth
Ingredients of Concern: Guar Gum, Chickpeas
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 8%
Crude Fat: 0.2%
Crude Fiber: 0.8%
Moisture: 90%
Dry Matter Basis
Protein: 80%
Fat: 2%
Fiber: 8%
Carbs: 10%
Caloric Weight Basis
Protein: 84.34%
Fat: 5.12%
Carbs: 10.54%
Pros
- Thinner consistency makes them perfect as meal toppers
- High in protein and moisture
Cons
- “Natural Flavor” is vaguely defined
- More expensive option
#5 Best as a Topper: Fussie Cat Chicken with Duck Puree
Fussie Cat Chicken with Duck Puree squeeze treats
Read Our Brand Review of Fussie Cat
- Brand Name: Fussie Cat
- Made In: Thailand
- Age Range: Adult
- Calories per tube: 7.7 kcal
- Approximate cost per tube: $0.88
While my feline testers enjoyed Fussie Cat squeeze treats, they were a bit messy for direct feeding, leaving some adorable but slightly inconvenient soupiness around their faces. However, as a cat food topper, Fussie Cat performs exceptionally well.
These treats are moisture-rich but contain slightly less protein compared to other squeeze treat options.
Ingredient Composition
Water, Chicken, Duck, Potato, Sunflower Oil, Natural Flavors, Xanthan Gum, Taurine, Vitamin E Supplement.
Ingredients We Appreciate: Chicken, Duck, Sunflower Oil
Ingredient of Concern: Potato
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 6%
Crude Fat: 1.5%
Crude Fiber: 0.6%
Moisture: 87%
Dry Matter Basis
Protein: 46.15%
Fat: 11.54%
Fiber: 4.62%
Carbs: 37.69%
Caloric Weight Basis
Protein: 41.26%
Fat: 25.05%
Carbs: 33.69%
Pros
- Includes taurine and Vitamin E
- Wide variety of flavors available
- Consistency is ideal as a food topper
Cons
- Lower protein content
- Contains potato
#6 Best Value: Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up Variety Pack
Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up Variety Pack
Explore Our Brand Review of Hartz Delectables Squeeze Up
- Brand Name: Hartz
- Made In: Thailand
- Age Range: Adult cats
- Calories per tube: 7.4 kcal
- Approximate cost per tube: $0.61
For households with multiple cats or those mindful of budget, Hartz Delectables offer a cost-effective option that still delivers quality comparable to pricier brands. These squeeze treats have a rich, thick texture, giving you better control over dispensing speed and portion size.
Delectables are hydrating and protein-rich. Both of my cats enjoyed the taste, and I found them exceptionally easy to serve by hand.
Ingredient Analysis
Chicken Recipe: Water, Tuna, Chicken, Tapioca Starch, Natural and Artificial Flavor, Guar Gum, Natural Tuna Flavor.
Tuna Recipe: Water, Tuna, Tapioca Starch, Natural and Artificial Flavor, Guar Gum, Natural Tuna Flavor.
Ingredients We Appreciate: Chicken, Tuna
Ingredients of Concern: Guar Gum, Artificial Flavor
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 8%
Crude Fat: 0.1%
Crude Fiber: 5%
Moisture: 14%
Dry Matter Basis
Protein: 9.3%
Fat: 0.12%
Fiber: 5.81%
Carbs: 84.77%
Caloric Weight Basis
Protein: 9.86%
Fat: 0.3%
Carbs: 89.84%
Pros
- Economical choice
- Features real chicken and tuna
- Ideal consistency for hand-feeding
Cons
- “Natural flavors” is an undefined ingredient
#7 Best for Picky Eaters: Catit Creamy Salmon Flavor Lickable Treat
Catit Creamy Salmon Flavor Lickable Treat
Read Our Brand Review of Catit
- Brand Name: Catit
- Made In: Quebec, Canada
- Age Range: All life stages
- Calories per ounce/serving: 4.6 kcal/tube
- Approximate cost per tube: $0.64
Leading our list of top squeeze treats is Catit Creamy Treats. These treats stand out for several reasons. First, they boast a high moisture content. They also include beneficial ingredients like salmon oil, a rich source of omega fatty acids, and taurine, a vital amino acid for heart health.
Taste-wise, both cats gave enthusiastic approval – they couldn’t get enough! Serving these treats was also incredibly easy. The formula has a thick texture that maintains its shape well as you squeeze it out, making for a cleaner feeding experience.
If there’s one minor drawback, it’s the slightly lower protein content. However, overall, Catit was a major hit in our home.
Ingredient List
Water Sufficient For Processing, Salmon, Modified Tapioca Starch, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil, Taurine.
Ingredients We Appreciate: Salmon Oil, Taurine
Ingredient of Concern: Tapioca Starch
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 5%
Crude Fat: 1%
Crude Fiber: 2%
Moisture: 90%
Dry Matter Basis
Protein: 50%
Fat: 10%
Fiber: 20%
Carbs: 20%
Caloric Weight Basis
Protein: 53.03%
Fat: 25.76%
Carbs: 21.21%
Pros
- Grain-free formula
- No by-products
- Affordable price
- Thicker consistency is excellent for hand-held feeding
Cons
- Lower protein content
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do cats adore squeeze treats?
Squeeze treats, with their soft, creamy, or liquid textures, offer a unique sensory experience that cats find highly appealing. Their palatability stems from cats’ specialized taste receptors that are particularly responsive to these textures.
Are squeeze treats a healthy option for cats?
Squeeze treats can be a healthy treat option when given in moderation. They can contribute to hydration, especially for cats that don’t drink water often. They can also provide beneficial nutrients like protein and taurine. The key is to choose squeeze treats made with high-quality ingredients and that are low in added sugars and excessive calories.
