When choosing between wet and dry cat food, shelf life is often a key concern for pet owners. Wet cat food is known for its rich moisture content and fresh ingredients, but does that mean it spoils faster than dry kibble? Understanding the differences in storage, preservatives, and packaging can help ensure your cat’s meals stay safe and nutritious for as long as possible.
What Is The Difference Between Wet Cat Food and Dry Food?
The main difference between wet cat food and dry food is the amount of water they contain. Wet cat food has a higher water content, and is usually canned whereas dry cat food has a lower water content, is usually kibble-shaped, and comes in bags.
Is It Better To Feed Cats Wet Or Dry Food?
There is no better option as both dry and wet cat food can provide the nutrition your cat needs if you choose the correct brand. The best option often depends on your cat's individual needs and preferences.
Can I Mix Wet Cat Food With Dry Food?
Mixing dry and wet cat food is perfectly fine for most cats and can be a good way to provide a balanced diet with added moisture.
Does Wet Cat Food Expire Faster Than Dry Food?
Different types of cat food have different instructions to prevent the food from spoiling. Dry cat kibble will last much longer before spoiling than canned cat food. Here’s a breakdown of how long each type lasts:
How Long Can You Store Unopened Wet Cat Food?
Unopened wet cat food can be stored in a cool, dry place for about one year after the food is manufactured. You can check the "best by" date on the package to make sure that it’s still fresh.
How Long Can You Leave Out Opened Wet Cat Food?
Once the can of wet cat food is opened, bacteria can contaminate it meaning it should only be left out for 1-2 hours indoors at room temperature. If you leave wet cat food out for a couple of hours it will dry up, congeal and become less appealing to your furry friend.
If your cat only eats part of a package or tin of wet food, put the leftovers back in a sealed container in the fridge after opening. The next serving can be warmed to room temperature since most cats don't like cold food.
How Long Can You Store Unopened Dry Cat Food?
Dry cat food is very shelf-stable when stored in a cool, dry place. It varies between different cat food brands, but unopened dry cat food retains its nutrients and stays fresh for about 12 to 18 months after being manufactured.
How Long Can You Leave Out Opened Dry Cat Food?
Since dry cat food is processed at higher temperatures when it’s made, the cooking process is likely to kill off any bacteria contaminating the raw ingredients. This means that you can safely leave dry cat food out for a few days and it won’t spoil. However, you need to keep in mind that dry cat food will usually grow stale within a day and won’t be as appealing to your cat once this happens.
