Are Freeze-Dried Treats Safe For Cats?

Yes, freeze-dried treats are generally very safe for cats, especially when made from high-quality, single ingredients like chicken or salmon. The freeze-drying process removes moisture while locking in nutrients and flavour, creating a nutritious, shelf-stable treat without the need for preservatives.

Unlike many mass-produced cat treats that rely on fillers, sugars, salts, or artificial flavours to entice cats, freeze-dried treats are often free from those unnecessary extras. This makes them a great option for cats with sensitive stomachs or food intolerances.

However, it's still important to check the label. Not all freeze-dried cat treats are created equal. Look for natural cat treats such as those available at Fuzzball that list a single protein source (e.g., "100% chicken") with no added ingredients.

 

Should You Add Water To Freeze v-Dried Cat Treats?

Generally, no. Freeze-dried treats are meant to be fed as-is. They’re crunchy or chewy depending on the protein source, and most cats enjoy the texture straight from the pack. That said, some owners like to rehydrate them with a splash of warm water, especially for older cats with dental issues or for use as a topper.

Rehydrating doesn’t affect the nutritional content but can make the treat more palatable for cats who prefer softer textures. If you're looking for soft cat treats, rehydrating freeze-dried ones can be a great option.

 

Do Freeze-Dried Cat Treats Go Bad?

Yes, eventually, but they last much longer than fresh or refrigerated treats. Because the freeze-drying process removes moisture (which bacteria need to grow), these healthy treats for cats can typically last up to 12–18 months if stored in a cool, dry place.

Always check the expiry date on the pack, reseal it tightly, and avoid exposure to heat or humidity. If a treat smells off or looks discoloured, it’s best to throw it away.

 

 

 

Do Freeze-Dried Cat Treats Have Artificial Additives?

Most freeze-dried cat treats do not contain artificial additives. That’s one of their biggest selling points. They’re usually made from a single, high-quality protein source and skip the preservatives, artificial colours, and flavourings found in many traditional cat treats.

At Fuzzball, our freeze-dried cat treats are 100% natural pure chicken or salmon, freeze-dried to lock in all the goodness. Nothing artificial. No fillers. No fluff.

That said, always double-check the ingredients list. Some brands might sneak in extras for flavour or shelf life, especially if it’s a blend rather than a single-ingredient treat.

Common artificial additives in standard supermarket cat treats may include:

 

BHA/BHT (Butylated Hydroxyanisole/Butylated Hydroxytoluene): Preservatives linked to health concerns

Propylene Glycol: A moisture-retaining agent that can be harmful in high quantities

Artificial Colours: Such as Red 40, Yellow 5, or Blue 2, which have no nutritional value

Added Sugars or Syrups: These are used to enhance taste but unnecessary for cats

Flavour Enhancers: Artificial meat or fish flavours to make up for low-quality ingredients

These additives are not only unnecessary but can be harmful or disruptive to your cat’s health over time.

 

Freeze-Dried Vs. Other Cat Treats: A Quick Comparison

Can I Use Freeze-Dried Cat Treats As A Meal Topper?

Absolutely! Freeze-dried cat treats make excellent meal toppers. Just crumble a bit over your cat’s regular wet or dry food to boost flavour and protein. This is especially helpful for picky eaters or cats transitioning to a new diet.

At Fuzzball, we often suggest sprinkling crushed freeze-dried chicken treats on top of our wet food during transitions. It makes the meal smell irresistible and helps fussy cats warm up to new flavours. This is one of the best ways to use cat treats effectively for mealtime encouragement.

Are There Allergens In Freeze-Dried Cat Treats?

While many freeze-dried treats are considered hypoallergenic, the potential for allergens still exists. It all depends on your cat’s individual sensitivities.

For example, if your cat has a known chicken allergy, even a single-ingredient chicken treat would be off the menu. But for most cats, freeze-dried treats are a great low-risk option because they contain fewer ingredients, which means fewer chances of a reaction.

Always monitor your cat when introducing a new treat, and if you’re unsure, speak with your vet, especially if your cat has a history of allergies or dietary issues.

 

Our Resident Fuzzball's Final Words

In summary, freeze-dried cat treats are safe, nutritious, and often free from artificial additives. They’re a smart choice for cat parents looking for high-quality, natural cat treats with long shelf lives and zero fluff. Whether you’re after the best cat treats, treats for cats with sensitive stomachs, or simply a healthy addition to their diet, freeze-dried cat treats tick all the boxes.

Looking for the best freeze-dried cat treats? Explore Fuzzball’s 100% chicken treats, pure protein, no additives, and are loved by even the fussiest felines. Perfect for cats of all ages and a staple among top-rated cat treats in the UK.