If you’ve ever wanted one product you can use three different ways—as a treat, a meal topper, or a full meal—Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Nibs are the definition of “easy button.”

They’re bite-size, protein-forward, and ridiculously motivating for pets (you’ll know the second you open the bag). Even better: Vital Essentials gives you two textures—Soft Nibs and Crunchy Nibs—so you can match your pet’s preference and chewing style.

What are “Nibs,” exactly?

Vital Essentials Nibs are freeze-dried, raw entrées made to be:

  • served as a complete meal (follow the feeding guide on the bag)

  • used as a topper (crumble a few over food for instant upgrades)

  • given as high-value treats (training, enrichment, reward moments)

Freeze-drying removes moisture while keeping the ingredients appealing and convenient—so you get a shelf-stable option that still feels like real food.

Soft vs. Crunchy: pick the texture your pet loves

Soft Nibs (tender + easy to chew) Also $7 off for March!

Perfect for:

  • cats who prefer softer bites

  • small dogs

  • senior pets

  • training sessions (easy to break into smaller rewards)

Crunchy Nibs (crisp + satisfying texture)

Perfect for:

  • pets who love a crunch

  • enrichment games (snuffle mats, treat hunts)

  • using as a topper without getting mushy

Pro tip: For full meals, you can serve Nibs dry or rehydrate with warm water to boost aroma and make the texture even gentler—especially helpful for cats and seniors.

Our current Vital Essentials Nibs lineup

For Cats — Crunchy Nibs (Entrées)

  • Beef & Chicken

  • Chicken

  • Pork

For Cats — Soft Nibs (Entrées)

  • Pork

For Dogs — Soft Nibs (Entrées)

  • Beef

  • Beef & Salmon

  • Pork

  • Lamb & Whitefish

  • Duck

For Dogs — Crunchy Nibs (Entrées)

  • Beef

  • Duck

  • Turkey

How customers use Nibs (real-life simple)

1) Full meal (yes—these are entrées)

Great for:

  • busy days when you need something fast

  • travel/camping/overnights

  • picky pets who do best with “real food” style feeding
    Just portion per the bag’s feeding guide and you’re set.

2) Topper for picky eaters

Crumble a few pieces over kibble or wet food to add aroma, texture, and instant excitement.

3) Training + rewards

These are high-value without being greasy. Break Soft Nibs into smaller bits for rapid-fire rewards, or use Crunchy Nibs for “jackpot” moments.

Not sure where to start?

  • Cats: start with Crunchy Chicken or Soft Pork (especially for picky or older cats).

  • Dogs: if your dog loves fishy aromas, Soft Beef & Salmon is a favorite; if they love rich protein, Duck is a strong pick; if you want classic, go Beef.

Want help choosing? Tell us your pet’s age and vibe (picky, sensitive tummy, allergy concerns, senior, etc.) and we’ll point you to the best match.