Do Cats Need Wet Food? The Pros of Including it in Their Diet

Do Cats Need Wet Food? The Pros of Including it in Their Diet

Fuzz's Insight:

"Yes - I need as much food as I can get".

Thanks Fuzz, you can go back to sleep now.

The Top (Fe)Line

Whilst cats don't necessarily need wet food, some vets recommend it as a solution to their naturally low thirst drive. Cats are often not as hydrated as they should be simply because they're not aware of its importance. In a sense, wet food can be viewed as a workaround to this issue. Here are its general benefits:

1. Easier to Eat

For kittens, seniors, and cats with dental issues, wet food is much easier to chew and digest than dry kibble.

2. Higher Protein, Lower Carbs

Many wet foods are higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates compared to dry food. This aligns better with a cat’s natural carnivorous diet.

3. Weight & Obesity Control

Wet food has fewer calories per gram due to its high moisture content, making it easier to control portion sizes and prevent overeating.

4. Helps with Urinary & Kidney Health

Increased moisture intake can reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney disease, which are common in cats.

5. Hydration

Wet food provides fuzzballs with essential moisture, which helps prevent dehydration and supports kidney and urinary health.

So, Is Dry Food Bad Then?

No, cats can live long, healthy lives on a dry food option! A high-quality dry food (like Fuzzball’s) can be a good option, especially when paired with fresh water. Some cats prefer kibble or graze throughout the day.

1. Dental Health

There’s a common belief that dry food helps clean teeth, but this is only partly true—most kibble is too small or soft to provide real cleaning benefits. Regular dental care is still needed.

2. Higher Energy Density

Dry food is more calorie-dense than wet food, which can be useful for very active or underweight cats that need extra nutrition.

3. Enrichment & Grazing

Some cats enjoy working for their food, and dry kibble can be used in puzzle feeders or treat dispensers to provide mental stimulation.

4. More affordable

 Dry food is easier to store, lasts longer, and is generally more affordable than wet food. It’s also convenient for free-feeding, so cats can eat small portions throughout the day.

The Bottom (Fe)Line

Wet food has its inherent benefits, but ultimately you should be more concerned about the food's nutritional value than whether it is wet or dry. Both types of food should preferably be grain-free and high in protein to ensure your Fuzzball has a complete diet.