Open a bag of Temptations cat treats and your kitty will likely come running. These crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside snacks are known for being irresistible. But are they actually safe for your cat?
If you’ve heard warnings about Temptations treats and are wondering whether to keep feeding them, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s really in Temptations, discuss the concerns, and help you make informed choices for your cat’s health and behavior.
Are Temptations Cat Treats Safe?
Temptations cat treats are not toxic, but they can contribute to health and behavior issues if overfed or used improperly. While many cats love them, the ingredients and additives raise valid concerns—especially for cats with sensitivities or special dietary needs.
Let’s take a closer look at what the warnings are all about.
What’s in Temptations Cat Treats?
Temptations treats are manufactured by Mars Petcare and marketed as fun, crunchy snacks with added vitamins and minerals. But a quick glance at the label shows that they’re highly processed.
Common Ingredients Include:
- Chicken by-product meal
- Animal fat preserved with BHA/BHT
- Ground corn and wheat flour
- Natural and artificial flavors
- Color additives
- Added vitamins (e.g., taurine, Vitamin E)
The issue? Many of these ingredients are low-quality or controversial—especially BHA and BHT, which are artificial preservatives linked to health concerns in some studies.
Why Some Cat Owners Are Worried
Over the years, pet forums, reviews, and Facebook groups have shared anecdotal reports of cats getting sick after eating Temptations. These stories range from vomiting and diarrhea to behavior changes and increased food aggression.
Reported Concerns Include:
- Digestive upset (vomiting, loose stools)
- Allergic reactions (itchiness, skin issues)
- Hyperactivity or food obsession
- Refusal to eat regular food
- Spraying or marking around treat areas
While not every cat will react negatively, many of these problems stem from overuse, poor-quality ingredients, or using treats in place of real food.
The BHA and BHT Debate
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are synthetic preservatives used to prevent fat from going rancid. While they are allowed in pet foods in small amounts, they’ve been linked to health risks in lab animals, including potential cancer risk.
The FDA still permits their use in pet treats, but many holistic vets recommend avoiding them when possible—especially in older cats or those with compromised immune systems.
Are Temptations Addictive?
Temptations aren’t chemically addictive, but they are formulated to be hyper-palatable—meaning your cat is likely to crave them more than regular food.
That’s because they contain animal fats, artificial flavors, and high-carb fillers that stimulate your cat’s pleasure receptors. The result? A cat that begs, demands, or even acts out to get more treats.
Is your cat meowing constantly or spraying near the pantry? This may be treat-related stress or territorial behavior.
Click here to discover Cat Spray No More—a powerful solution for cats who spray, mark, or act out due to stress or food obsession.
Can Temptations Cause Health Issues?
Temptations in moderation are unlikely to cause serious harm. But if given daily or in large quantities, they may contribute to:
- Obesity and weight gain
- Urinary issues (due to low moisture content)
- Diabetes risk in older or inactive cats
- Behavioral dependency or food aggression
Some cats also develop stomach sensitivity or allergies over time, especially if treats contain common irritants like corn, wheat, soy, or dairy.
How Many Temptations Treats Is Too Much?
The Temptations package recommends 10–12 treats per 10 lbs. of cat body weight per day—but many owners go way beyond this limit.
If your cat is demanding treats constantly or skipping regular meals, it’s time to cut back. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
Signs You’re Overfeeding Temptations:
- Your cat skips regular meals
- They cry, scratch, or act out near treat storage areas
- They’ve gained weight or have soft stools
- They act irritable or anxious without treats
Moderation and consistency are key—Temptations are meant to be occasional snacks, not meal replacements or emotional pacifiers.
What to Do If Your Cat Gets Sick from Temptations
If your cat experiences vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual behavior after eating Temptations, stop giving them immediately and monitor symptoms.
Steps to Take:
- Discontinue treats for at least 7–10 days
- Offer bland, easily digestible food (like plain boiled chicken)
- Ensure access to fresh water at all times
- Contact your vet if symptoms persist or worsen
Don’t ignore behavioral changes either. If your cat starts spraying or showing territorial stress after developing a treat obsession, they may need a behavior reset.
Cat Spray No More can help you stop the spraying and rebuild calm, balanced behavior—naturally and gently.
Healthier Alternatives to Temptations
If you’re ready to make the switch, there are safer, more nutritious options available:
| Treat | Main Ingredient | Why It’s Better |
|---|---|---|
| Freeze-Dried Chicken | Single-ingredient protein | High in protein, no fillers |
| Dehydrated Salmon | Omega-3-rich fish | Great for coat and joints |
| Homemade Tuna Cubes | Natural, preservative-free | Customizable and clean |
| Dental Treats (Vet-Approved) | Designed for oral health | Supports teeth and gums |
Switch gradually and observe how your cat reacts to new treats. Always look for minimal ingredients, no artificial colors or preservatives, and limited carbs.
When Treats Trigger Behavior Problems
Some cats develop behavioral issues related to treats—especially if they’re used inconsistently or in excess. Spraying, aggression, or food obsession can all trace back to emotional or territorial stress, often worsened by over-reliance on food rewards.
If you notice:
- Spraying near food or treat storage areas
- Protective behavior over treats
- Begging, vocalizing, or anxiety around mealtime
It’s time to step in—before the problem grows.
Cat Spray No More offers a proven framework for eliminating spraying and stress-based behaviors using natural, cat-friendly methods.
Final Thoughts
Temptations cat treats aren’t inherently dangerous—but they’re not ideal either. Like many processed treats, they’re best used occasionally and in strict moderation. Overfeeding or relying on them too heavily can lead to health and behavioral problems you didn’t expect.
If your cat is already showing signs of food obsession, anxiety, or spraying, don’t ignore it. These early signs are your cat’s way of asking for balance and support.
Click here to get Cat Spray No More and help your cat feel safe, secure, and calm—while finally saying goodbye to stress-based marking behaviors.