Cats are known to be picky eaters. If you have ever noticed your feline friend turning their nose up at dry food but devouring a portion of wet food, you are not alone. Understandably, many cat owners are puzzled by the pet’s refusal to eat dry food and their enthusiasm towards eating wet food. Let’s take a look at the reasons behind these behaviours and go through some tips to cultivate better balanced eating habits.

Is Wet Food Better For Cats Than Dry Food? 

Wet food helps with hydration, especially for cats with urinary tract or kidney problems. On the other hand, dry food is easily prepared, budget-friendly and is beneficial for dental health. Often, a blend of both provides the best balance.

Why Is My Cat Not Eating Dry Food But Eats Wet Food?

There are a number of reasons why your fuzzball might prefer eating wet food over dry food, including the moisture content, smell and simplicity to ingest for older cats:

Wet food is more palatable for cats as it has a stronger aroma and flavour, which appeals to their keen sense of smell.

Wet food is easier to ingest since it has a softer texture and is more moist than dry food.

Cats do not drink much water, which is why they might prefer wet food that helps them stay hydrated.

Wet food triggers a stronger natural feeding response because it closely resembles the texture and composition of fresh prey.

Older felines appreciate soft food due to dental issues or sensitive gums.

 

That is not to say that dry food does not have its own benefits as well. It is much easier to store, spoil less when left out and helps with dental hygiene when mixed with other foods in your cat’s diet. 

The overall consensus is that cat owners who offer their cats a combination of wet and dry food have a happy balance. Wet food is a significant source of hydration, whereas dry food offers its ease of storage and longer shelf life.

How to Get a Cat to Eat Dry Food

There are some simple methods that could encourage your cat to switch over to dry food.

Combine Wet and Dry Food 

Cat owners can try blending a bit of dry food with wet food that your cat enjoys to introduce dry food. 

Stick to a Schedule For Feeding

Leaving dry food accessible all the time may reduce its attractiveness. Provide meals at specific times to keep your furr-baby interested in their meals.

Use High-Quality Dry Food

Fuzzball offers dry cat food options that are nutritionally balanced and come in flavours cats actually enjoy, such as Chicken and Chicken with Salmon and Tuna. 

Gradually Increase the Proportion of Dry Kibble Over Time

Add warm water or toppers: Kibble softened with warm water or a small portion of wet food may entice some cats.

Guide on Wet vs Dry Cat Food

Dry food can cause your cat to become dehydrated much quicker, and wet food might be too smooth for your cat's taste; there is no right or wrong way to feed your purr-fect friend, as long as their diet is nutritious and balanced.

Here is a simple guide to wet and dry cat food for simplicity: 

Can a Cat Eat Only Wet Food? 

Yes, cats can have a balanced diet with just wet food, as long as the diet is complete. Cats can thrive on a diet of only wet food. Brands like Fuzzball offer wet food flavours like Chicken, Hearty Beef, Chicken and Duck and Tuna and Salmon, which are nutritionally balanced and delicious. 

Do Cats Get Bored of Dry Food? 

It isn’t new that cats can become fussy eaters. With most cats, over time they may lose interest in the same food. 

TIP: A rotation of flavours and different textures can be helpful. This is one more reason wet food is popular. It has a richer aroma and texture than dry food.

Are Some Cats Just Pickier Pets?

Much like humans, pets have their specific preferences and tastes. For cats, some may be sensitive to smells and some to textures. Factors such as age, breed and previous feeding habits can affect a cat’s preference when it comes to food.

Final Thoughts from Our Resident Fuzzball 

“Hi there! I’m the resident Fuzzball and as the Chief Taste Tester here at Fuzzball HQ, I’d like to share my take. As a picky eater, let me share something that I indeed believe in — my kitty friends and I all agree that texture and flavour is very important. Cats do prefer some foods over the other, but it makes perfect sense why. For those furry friends of yours, if they prefer wet food, it is because it mimics the diet of cats in nature. Just don’t go changing everything at once. Try gradual changes and make sure it’s delicious. We are more observant than you think. 

Until the next time mealtime arrives, stay purr-sistent!”