Churu vs. Delectables: A Cat Lover’s Guide to Choosing the Perfect Lickable Treat

As a cat parent, I’m always on the hunt for treats that make my feline friends purr with delight. When it comes to lickable cat treats, Inaba Churu and Hartz Delectables dominate the shelves, each promising to win over even the pickiest kitties.

My goal here is to compare these two popular brands, breaking down their pros, cons, and key features to help you decide which is best for your cat. From ingredients to price, texture to health benefits, I’ll share my experience and insights to guide you in treating your furry companion right.

Comparison Table: Churu Vs. Delectables

My Journey With Cat Treats

I’ve been a cat mom for over a decade, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that cats are the ultimate food critics. My two cats, Luna and Milo, have wildly different tastes. Luna will devour anything fishy, while Milo turns his nose up at anything that isn’t chicken.

When I first discovered lickable treats, it was a game-changer. No more coaxing them to eat or hiding pills in kibble—these treats had them running to me like I was their personal chef. But with so many options, I needed to figure out which brand—Churu or Delectables—was worth my money and my cats’ health.

Understanding Lickable Treats

Lickable treats are pureed delights packaged in squeezable tubes, perfect for hand-feeding, topping food, or sneaking in medications. Both Churu and Delectables have mastered this format, offering creamy textures that cats can’t resist.

They’re high in moisture, low in calories, and designed to be a fun, interactive way to bond with your cat. But while they share these basics, the differences in ingredients, pricing, and suitability for specific needs set them apart. Let’s break it down.

Inaba Churu: The Premium Pick

What I Love About Churu

Churu, made by Inaba, is like catnip in a tube. The first time I squeezed out a bit of the tuna-flavored puree for Luna, she went wild, licking it straight from the tube with a fervor I’d never seen. The high moisture content—91%—is a huge plus, especially for Milo, who’s notorious for skipping his water bowl. Each tube is about 6 calories, so I don’t worry about overindulging them. The ingredient list is impressively clean: water, tuna or chicken, tapioca starch, natural flavors, and often taurine, which supports heart and eye health.

Churu’s variety is another win. With flavors like tuna with salmon, chicken with scallop, and even kitten-specific recipes, there’s something for every cat. I’ve used Churu to disguise Luna’s allergy meds, and she doesn’t suspect a thing. The tubes are easy to tear open, and the creamy consistency is perfect for slow feeding, which helps me control portions. Plus, Churu is grain-free and free of artificial preservatives, making it a wholesome choice.

Also read: My Thoughts on Weruva Vs. Tiki Cat Wet Cat Food.

The Downsides of Churu

Nothing’s perfect, and Churu has its flaws. The price is a big one—tubes typically cost $0.60 to $0.80 each, which adds up if you’re giving them daily. I’ve also heard from other cat owners that some batches can be inconsistent, with occasional oily or thin textures. Once, I got a pack from an online retailer that was near its expiration date, and the consistency was off—more like glue than creamy puree. Another concern is that some cats, especially those with sensitive stomachs, might get diarrhea from certain flavors. Lastly, the packaging can be tricky to differentiate between flavors at a glance, which is annoying when you’re juggling multiple varieties.

Key Features of Churu

• High Moisture Content: 91%, ideal for hydration.
• Low Calorie: ~6 kcal per tube, great for weight-conscious cats.
• Taurine Boost: Some varieties include taurine for added health benefits.
• Variety of Flavors: Wide range, including kitten and adult options.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for hand-feeding, food topping, or medication delivery.

Hartz Delectables: The Budget-Friendly Choice

What I Love About Delectables

Delectables, produced by Hartz, are the wallet-friendly cousin of Churu. At around $0.40 to $0.55 per tube, they’re a steal compared to Churu. My cats don’t love them quite as much as Churu, but they still go crazy for the tuna and chicken varieties. The 90% moisture content is nearly as good as Churu’s, making it a solid choice for keeping cats hydrated. I’ve found the thick, creamy texture easier to control when squeezing, which is great for slow-feeding Milo, who tends to inhale treats.

Delectables also shine in their variety packs, offering flavors like tuna, chicken, and tuna with shrimp. They have a senior-specific line, which I haven’t tried since my cats are still young, but it’s a thoughtful option for older felines with dental issues or reduced appetites. Like Churu, Delectables are grain-free and free of preservatives, which gives me peace of mind. I’ve used them as a food topper when Luna’s been picky, and it’s worked like a charm to get her eating again.

The Downsides of Delectables

Hartz’s reputation is a sticking point for me. The brand has a history of safety concerns with other products, like flea treatments, which makes me hesitant. While I haven’t had issues with Delectables specifically, some cat owners on forums report their cats getting sick from them, though it’s unclear if it’s the treats or other factors. The ingredient list, while simple, sometimes includes artificial flavors, which I’m not thrilled about, though they avoid by-products and fillers. I also noticed that some tubes can arrive damaged or burst, especially when ordered online. Lastly, Delectables don’t include taurine, which is a missed opportunity for added nutrition.

Key Features of Delectables

• Affordable Price: ~$0.40-$0.55 per tube, budget-friendly.
• High Moisture Content: 90%, excellent for hydration.
• Variety Packs: Includes tuna, chicken, and senior-specific options.
• Thick Texture: Easy to control for portioning.
• Widely Available: Found in most grocery stores and pet retailers.

Read More: My Thoughts on Science Diet Kitten Vs. Indoor Kitten.

Comparing Ingredients And Nutrition

When I look at the ingredient lists, both brands keep things simple, starting with water, followed by tuna or chicken, and tapioca starch for texture. Churu edges out slightly with its taurine inclusion in some recipes, which is a big deal for cats, as this amino acid supports vital functions like vision and heart health. Delectables, however, occasionally use artificial flavors, which I’m not thrilled about, though they avoid by-products and fillers.

Nutritionally, both are low-calorie—Churu at ~6 kcal per tube and Delectables at ~7 kcal. This makes them great for occasional treats without packing on the pounds. Both are high in moisture (91% for Churu, 90% for Delectables), which is a lifesaver for cats like Milo who don’t drink enough water. However, neither is a complete meal replacement, as they lack the full spectrum of nutrients cats need daily. I stick to the 10% rule: treats should make up no more than 10% of a cat’s daily calories, with the rest coming from a balanced diet.

Price and Value

Price is where Delectables pulls ahead. At roughly half the cost of Churu, they’re a no-brainer for budget-conscious cat parents. A 24-pack of Delectables might run you $10-$13, while a 20-pack of Churu can cost $12-$16. If you’re treating multiple cats or using these daily, the savings with Delectables add up. That said, Churu’s premium ingredients and taurine addition might justify the higher price for some, especially if your cat has specific health needs or you’re using treats for medication delivery.

Texture and Consistency

Texture is a big deal for cats, and both brands deliver a creamy puree that’s easy to lick. Churu’s consistency is slightly smoother, which Luna prefers for quick lapping. Delectables, on the other hand, is thicker, which I find easier to dispense slowly, especially when I’m trying to stretch out the treat during bonding time. However, I’ve read complaints about both brands having occasional batch inconsistencies—Churu can sometimes be oily, and Delectables can feel too thick or lumpy. In my experience, these issues are rare but worth noting.

Flavor Variety and Cat Appeal

Cats are picky, and flavor variety matters. Churu offers a dizzying array of options, from tuna with bonito flakes to chicken with cheese, which keeps things exciting for Luna and Milo. Delectables has fewer flavors but covers the basics well—tuna, chicken, and shrimp combos. Both brands are hits with my cats, though Churu seems to have a slight edge in palatability. I’ve seen Milo literally sprint across the room for a Churu tube, while Delectables gets a more leisurely response. Online reviews echo this, with Churu often called “cat crack” for its irresistible appeal.

Suitability for Special Needs

If your cat has specific needs, like dental issues or kidney disease, both brands have their strengths. Delectables’ senior line, with its softer textures, is tailored for older cats who struggle with chewing. I haven’t needed these yet, but reviews suggest they’re a hit for enticing picky seniors. Churu’s kitten-specific recipes are great for younger cats, with added DHA for brain development. For cats with kidney issues, neither brand is specifically formulated for low phosphorus, but Delectables’ senior bisque (tuna and chicken) is lower in phosphorus than some Churu flavors, though you’d need to check with your vet.

Practical Uses

Both treats shine in versatility. I’ve used Churu and Delectables for:

• Bonding: Hand-feeding builds trust and makes treat time special.
• Medication Delivery: Mixing pills with the puree is a lifesaver.
• Food Topping: Adds flavor to kibble or wet food for picky eaters.
• Hydration: High moisture content helps cats who don’t drink enough.

Churu’s smoother texture makes it slightly better for sneaking in meds, while Delectables’ thicker consistency works well as a food topper. I’ve also used both to distract Luna during nail trims, and they work like magic.

Safety and Brand Reputation

Hartz’s history gives me pause. The brand has faced criticism for safety issues with products like flea treatments, leading some cat owners to avoid Delectables altogether. I haven’t had problems with Delectables, but the concern lingers. Churu, by contrast, has a cleaner reputation, with Inaba being a trusted name in pet treats. That said, some cats have reported digestive issues with Churu, so it’s not perfect either. Always start with small amounts to see how your cat reacts.

My Cats’ Verdict

Luna and Milo are the real judges here. Luna, my fish-loving diva, goes nuts for Churu’s tuna varieties, while Milo, the chicken enthusiast, happily licks both brands but seems to prefer Churu’s smoother texture. Delectables gets the job done when I’m on a budget, but Churu feels like a special treat that never fails to excite them. If I had to pick, Churu’s premium ingredients and taurine edge out slightly, but Delectables’ affordability makes it a close contender.

Making Your Choice

So, which should you choose? If you want a premium treat with top-notch ingredients and your cat loves variety, Churu is your go-to. It’s pricier, but the taurine boost and high palatability make it worth it for special occasions or health-conscious cats. If you’re watching your wallet or have a senior cat, Delectables offers great value and versatility without sacrificing too much quality. Either way, you can’t go wrong—both will have your cat purring for more. Try a small pack of each and see which one your feline friend votes for!

Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)

Conclusion

Choosing between Churu and Delectables comes down to your cat’s preferences and your budget. I’ve shared my experience with Luna and Milo, and I hope it helps you find the perfect treat for your furry friend. Whether you go for Churu’s premium punch or Delectables’ budget-friendly charm, you’re giving your cat a moment of joy. Try both, see what makes your cat’s tail twitch, and enjoy the bonding time that comes with these lickable delights!