Which Is More Suitable for Cats: Dry Food or Wet Food?

Imagine you are visiting a cat food store and there are several different food options all around you. You would find various choices, from dry food options like Purina Pro Plan to wet food like Sheba and Fancy Feast.

However, with multiple options, the chances are high that you will get confused. The choice you make would directly impact your cat’s overall well-being. Make sure you choose the right type of food, whether it’s dry or wet.

This blog will help you make the right choice of food. So, let us look at the pros and cons of dry and wet food and see which one suits your cat.

Dry Cat Food

Dry food is usually a popular choice when choosing the proper cat diet. Let’s find out what makes it so popular, along with its benefits and drawbacks.

Benefits of Dry Cat Food

1. Convenient and Easy to Store

According to the National Library of Medicine, more than 40% of cat owners feed their cats with dry food. The reason for this is its convenience. All you have to do is scoop a portion of dry cat food, pour it into a small bowl, and that’s it. Your cat’s food is ready to be served!

At the same time, you can store it with relative ease. However, remember to store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Ideally, in an original bag or an airtight container that will keep the moisture and pests free.

2. It is Less Expensive

Budget is always a constraint for pet owners who spend tons of money on their pets monthly. But not in this case, though!

Dry food for cats is more affordable as compared to wet foods. This can come in really handy when you have multiple cats to feed.  

3. Promotes Dental Health

Dry food for cats promotes dental health in the form of cleaning teeth and reducing plaque buildup. There are many reasons for that.

The texture of dry cat food for your feline friend is typically harder, and the food’s surface is abrasive compared to wet cat food. Some foods also contain zinc, which naturally keeps the breath fresh and reduces plaque buildup.

Drawbacks of Dry Cat Food

1. Lower Water Content

One of the major drawbacks of dry cat food is the lower moisture content in wet cat food. Cats, in general, are built in such a way that they need a specific portion of water for their body through food. 

But with less water in the food, your cats are prone to getting dehydrated, having urinary tract problems, and kidney diseases. This is especially true with cats who don’t drink enough water daily.

2. Risk of Obesity

Dry cat foods generally contain more concentrated nutrients and high carbohydrate content. This is one of the main reasons for the risk of obesity in cats eating dry cat food. 

The other reason is excessive eating. Dry food for cats is less filling than wet cat food. So, cats tend to overeat dry food to fill their tummies. 

Wet Cat Food

Wet cat food (also known as canned food), on the other hand, is less preferred than dry food. Let us look at some reasons why it’s less preferred and a few benefits.

Benefits of Wet Cat Food

1. Higher Moisture Content

Wet cat food, in general, contains a higher percentage of water content as compared to its counterpart. This is a significant factor if your cat doesn’t prefer drinking much water.  

It ensures that your pet is hydrated enough and, in return, reduces the risk of kidney issues and other health-related problems.

2. Perfect for Picky Eaters

This type of food is like a perfect savior for those pet owners whose cat doesn’t like dry food. Its unique aroma and soft texture often attract cats.  

If your cat is a selective eater, then you must give this a try. 

Drawbacks of Wet Cat Food

1. Shorter Shelf Life

One of the most significant drawbacks of wet cat food is its shorter shelf life. This, unlike dry food, spoils quickly when exposed to air. 

So, you need to be very careful with the portion sizes and storage to prevent wastage of food.

2. Dental Health Concerns

Wet cat food doesn’t offer the same health benefits as compared to dry cat food. You can look at it this way: less chewing and breaking down the food means insufficient help removing plaque and tartar from the cat’s teeth.

3.  It Creates a Lot of Mess

Feeding wet food to your cats can create a lot of mess. They may step on their food and scatter it around, which may require regular clean-ups now and then.

Find the Right Balance

An ideal diet for your cat should be between the dry and the wet food. There has to be a proper balance. 

A healthy cat needs a diet that takes care of hydration and nutrition, as well as the dental health side of things. Make sure the transition is gradual and smooth so that there is no question of stomach upset taking place.

Final Thoughts

As a cat owner, you need to take a call and make a wise decision. Your one decision can significantly impact the overall health of your feline friend. So be responsible and make sure you are balancing both diets. Most importantly, take a piece of advice from an expert veterinarian.  

They provide personalized recommendations according to your cat’s overall health condition.