๐Ÿ† Complete Buyer's Guide ยท Cat Food

5 Smart Cat Treats for Apartment Dwellers

Apartment cats need low-calorie, high-moisture treats with hairball control. We compared 5 options including Hill's Science Diet Indoor to keep your feline healthy.

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Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor โ˜… Top Pick: Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Treats, Chickeโ€ฆ Check Price on Amazon →
2-3
Recommended treats per day for a 10 lb cat
1.5-2 kcal
Average calories per treat for weight management
5-10%
Treats should not exceed this percentage of daily calories
85%
Moisture content in wet treats to support urinary health
โšก Key takeaways
  • Best Overall: Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor. These treats are specifically formulated for indoor cats, with low calories and natural fi.
  • Best for Sensitive Stomach: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Cat Treats, Salmon Flavor. These treats are designed for cats with digestive sensitivities, using salmon as a single.
  • Best Budget: Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats, Tuna Flavor. These affordable treats feature real tuna as the first ingredient and are free from artifi.
  • Best for Dental Health: Blue Buffalo Wilderness Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor. These crunchy treats help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which is beneficial for indoor.
  • Best Wet Treat: Tiki Cat Stix, Chicken & Salmon Recipe. These soft, puree-style treats are perfect for apartment cats who need extra hydration.
At a Glance

Quick Comparison

Quick answer

The best cat treat for apartment cats is Hill’s Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Treats. They are low-calorie, support weight management, and contain natural fiber for hairball control. For cats with sensitive stomachs, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Treats are a great alternative. If you need a budget-friendly option, Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats offer quality ingredients at a lower price.

What to consider for Cat Treats For Cats In Apartments

Apartment cats often have less space to roam, which can lead to weight gain and boredom. Treats should be low in calories to prevent obesity, and they should provide enrichment, such as crunchy textures for dental health or interactive treat dispensers. Hairball control is also important because indoor cats groom more and can accumulate hairballs. Look for treats with added fiber like psyllium or cellulose. Additionally, consider treats that support urinary health, as reduced activity can increase the risk of urinary issues.

What to look for in a cat food

When choosing cat food, ensure it has an AAFCO statement confirming it is complete and balanced for your cat’s life stage. The first ingredient should be a named meat (e.g., chicken, salmon) to guarantee high animal protein. Taurine is an essential amino acid that must be present, as cats cannot produce it. For wet food, higher moisture content (75-85%) supports urinary health. Dry food should have moderate fat and fiber for weight control. Always select a formula appropriate for kittens, adults, or seniors.

How we chose these picks

  • Evaluated ingredient lists for named meat sources and absence of artificial additives.
  • Checked calorie content per treat to ensure they are suitable for indoor cats.
  • Reviewed customer feedback for palatability and digestive tolerance.
  • Considered treats that offer additional benefits like dental health, hairball control, or urinary support.
  • Selected products from reputable brands with AAFCO-compliant recipes.
  • Compared price per treat to provide options for different budgets.
  • Ensured treats are appropriately sized for apartment cats to prevent overfeeding.
  • Never ranked a product higher just because it pays a commission.

What to avoid

  • Avoid treats with unnamed meat or by-products as the first ingredient, as they may lack quality protein.
  • Steer clear of treats with excessive carbohydrates or fillers like corn, wheat, or soy.
  • Do not choose treats that lack taurine supplementation, as deficiency can cause serious health issues.
  • Avoid all-life-stage treats for kittens or seniors without checking if they meet specific nutritional needs.
  • Never switch your cat’s diet abruptly; introduce new treats gradually over 7-10 days.

For more guidance, visit our cat guides, cat food, and cat health sections.

Why this matters

Apartment cats are more prone to obesity and urinary issues due to reduced activity, making low-calorie, high-moisture treats with hairball control a smart choice.

The Options

Types Explained

Crunchy Treats

Hard, baked or extruded treats that provide a satisfying crunch. They help clean teeth and are often lower in moisture. Ideal for adult cats who enjoy chewing.

Best for: Dental health and weight management

Soft Treats

Chewy or tender treats that are easy to eat, suitable for kittens, seniors, or cats with dental issues. They often have a strong aroma to entice picky eaters.

Best for: Senior cats and picky eaters

Freeze-Dried Treats

Raw meat or fish that is freeze-dried to preserve nutrients. They are high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Must be rehydrated or served as is.

Best for: High-protein, low-carb diets

Puree or Stix Treats

Smooth, semi-liquid treats in tubes or pouches. They are high in moisture and great for hydration. Often used as a topper or for hiding medication.

Best for: Hydration and medication administration
The Rankings

Top 5 Picks

#1
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor
Best Overall

Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor

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These treats are specifically formulated for indoor cats, with low calories and natural fiber to control hairballs. They support weight management and are made with high-quality chicken. However, some cats may find the texture too hard, and they are not suitable for kittens or seniors with dental issues.

#2
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Cat Treats, Salmon Flavor
Best for Sensitive Stomach

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Cat Treats, Salmon Flavor

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These treats are designed for cats with digestive sensitivities, using salmon as a single animal protein source. They are easily digestible and contain probiotics for gut health. A limitation is that they are higher in fat than some alternatives, so portion control is important for weight management.

#3
Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats, Tuna Flavor
Best Budget

Fancy Feast Natural Cat Treats, Tuna Flavor

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These affordable treats feature real tuna as the first ingredient and are free from artificial flavors and preservatives. They are low in calories and suitable for adult cats. The downside is that they are not formulated for hairball control or dental health, and some cats may prefer crunchier textures.

#4
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor
Best for Dental Health

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Cat Treats, Chicken Flavor

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These crunchy treats help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, which is beneficial for indoor cats with limited activity. They are grain-free and high in protein. However, they are slightly higher in calories, so they should be fed sparingly, and they may not be ideal for cats with sensitive teeth.

#5
Tiki Cat Stix, Chicken & Salmon Recipe
Best Wet Treat

Tiki Cat Stix, Chicken & Salmon Recipe

View on Amazon

These soft, puree-style treats are perfect for apartment cats who need extra hydration. They are made with real chicken and salmon, and have a smooth texture that picky eaters love. A drawback is that they are messy to serve and have a strong fishy smell, which some owners may find off-putting.

Before You Buy

Key Buying Factors

01

Calorie Content

Apartment cats are prone to obesity due to limited space. Choose treats with fewer than 2 calories each to avoid overfeeding. Check the package for kcal per treat and adjust your cat's main meal accordingly.

02

Hairball Control

Indoor cats groom more and can develop hairballs. Look for treats with natural fiber sources like psyllium or cellulose to help move hair through the digestive tract. Some treats also include omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.

03

Dental Health

Crunchy treats can help reduce plaque and tartar. Look for treats with a texture that promotes chewing, or those with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal. However, dental treats should not replace regular brushing.

04

Ingredient Quality

The first ingredient should be a named meat (e.g., chicken, salmon). Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Grain-free options are available but ensure they still contain taurine and are not just fillers.

05

Life Stage Appropriateness

Kittens, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs. Choose treats formulated for your cat's life stage. Senior cats may need softer treats, while kittens require higher protein and calories for growth.

Living With It

Care, Cost and Maintenance

Portion Control

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. For a 10 lb cat, that's about 20-30 calories from treats. Measure treats carefully and reduce main meals if needed to prevent weight gain.

Introducing New Treats

When switching to a new treat, introduce it gradually over 5-7 days. Start with one treat per day and monitor for any digestive upset. If your cat has a sensitive stomach, choose treats with limited ingredients.

Storage and Freshness

Store treats in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Freeze-dried and soft treats are more perishable; check expiration dates. Discard any treats that smell rancid or show mold.

Pro tip

Use treat-dispensing puzzle toys to combine mental stimulation with reward, helping your apartment cat stay active and engaged.

Frequently asked questions

How many treats should I give my cat per day?
The general guideline is that treats should not exceed 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. For an average 10 lb adult cat, that equates to about 20-30 calories from treats, which is roughly 2-3 small treats per day. Adjust based on your cat's activity level and weight goals. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, especially if your cat has health conditions like diabetes or obesity.
Are wet treats better than dry treats for cats?
Both have benefits. Wet treats (like purees or stix) provide extra hydration, which is beneficial for urinary health, especially for cats that don't drink enough water. Dry treats (crunchy or baked) can help with dental health by reducing plaque. The choice depends on your cat's needs. For apartment cats prone to urinary issues, wet treats may be preferable, but dry treats can be used for training. A mix of both can offer variety.
Should I choose grain-free treats for my cat?
Grain-free treats are not necessary for most cats, but they can be a good option for cats with grain allergies or sensitivities. However, recent studies have linked grain-free diets to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs, though the risk in cats is less clear. Ensure that any grain-free treat still contains adequate taurine, as some grain-free recipes may have lower taurine levels. Consult your vet before switching to a grain-free diet.
Can kittens eat adult cat treats?
Kittens have different nutritional needs, requiring higher protein, fat, and certain nutrients like DHA for brain development. Adult cat treats may not provide these in the right balance. It's best to choose treats specifically formulated for kittens. If you must give an adult treat, ensure it is soft and small to prevent choking, and only in very small amounts. Always check the label for age recommendations.
What treats are best for senior cats?
Senior cats (age 7+) often have dental issues, reduced kidney function, and may need joint support. Soft treats or purees are easier to eat. Look for treats with added glucosamine and chondroitin for joints, and lower phosphorus for kidney health. Also, ensure treats are low in sodium. Consult your vet for specific recommendations based on your senior cat's health conditions.
How can treats support urinary health in cats?
Urinary health treats often contain ingredients that promote a healthy urinary tract, such as cranberry extract, low magnesium, and increased moisture. Wet treats help dilute urine and reduce the risk of crystals. Some treats are formulated to maintain an optimal urine pH. However, treats alone cannot prevent or treat urinary issues; ensure your cat has access to fresh water and a balanced diet. If your cat has a history of urinary problems, consult your vet.
What treats are good for weight management in indoor cats?
For weight management, choose low-calorie treats (under 2 kcal each) with high protein and low fat. Treats with added fiber can help your cat feel full. Avoid treats with high carbohydrate content. Measure portions strictly and consider using part of your cat's daily kibble as treats. Interactive treat puzzles can also help burn extra calories while providing mental stimulation.
My cat is a picky eater; what treats might work?
Picky cats often respond to strong-smelling, high-protein treats like freeze-dried chicken, salmon, or tuna. Puree-style treats with a smooth texture and intense flavor are also appealing. Try a variety of textures and flavors to see what your cat prefers. Avoid treats with artificial flavors, as they may be less appealing. Sometimes, warming the treat slightly can enhance the aroma.
Are there treats that help with hairballs in indoor cats?
Yes, many treats are formulated to reduce hairballs. They typically contain natural fiber (like psyllium, cellulose, or beet pulp) to help move hair through the digestive tract, and often include oils (like omega-3 fatty acids) to lubricate the system. These treats should be given daily as directed. However, if hairballs persist, consult your vet to rule out underlying issues.
A note on advice: This guide is general information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Talk to your vet before changing your dog's diet or care routine, especially if your dog has allergies, kidney disease, pancreatitis, obesity, heart disease or any other medical condition.
Transparency

How we made this guide

How we chose. We compared the options on the factors that matter most for Cat Food, using manufacturer specifications, aggregated verified owner reviews and editorial comparison. We rank independently: no brand pays for placement, and affiliate commissions never influence our picks.

How it was written. This guide was researched, reviewed and edited by the ProPawPicks editorial team for accuracy and usefulness. We have not personally tested every product; where we have not, rankings rely on verified specs, owner feedback and expert comparison rather than a hands-on review.

Affiliate disclosure. ProPawPicks is reader-supported. If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. See our affiliate disclosure.

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Sources and further reading

Some links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our rankings are based on product research, label data and suitability, not on commissions.