- Quick list
- 1. Best overall wet cat food
- 2. Best budget wet cat food
- 3. Best wet cat food twin pack
- 4. Best wet cat food for easy feeding
- 5. Best grain-free wet cat food
- 6. Best wet cat food for urinary tract health
- 7. Best wet cat food for senior cats
- 8. Best wet cat food for flavor variety
- How to choose
- Wet vs dry
- Canned vs homemade
1. Best overall wet cat food: Ziwipeak Daily Cat Cuisine Tins Lamb
2. Best budget wet cat food: Purina Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Poultry & Beef Variety Pack Wet Cat Food
3. Best wet cat food twin pack: IAMS Perfect Portions Healthy Grain Free Wet Cat Food
4. Best wet cat food for easy feeding: BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless Singles Paté
5. Best grain-free wet cat food: Wellness Complete Health Minced Grain Free Cat Food
6. Best wet cat food for urinary tract health: Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health
7. Best wet cat food for senior cats: Royal Canin Aging 12+ Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food
8. Best wet cat food for flavor variety: Friskies Gravy Stuf'd & Sauc'd
How to choose
Frequently asked questions
As a cat parent, you’ve probably been stuck in the pet food aisle at least once trying to figure out which of the dozens of options is the best wet cat food. Don’t worry: we’ve got you covered with our list of picks}.
While choosing one of the best dry cat food options might be good for some cats, wet food has some big advantages. “Wet cat food has a higher water content than dry food. It is more palatable, especially for cats that are picky,” explains Dr. Georgina Ushi, DVM. “Canned food can be beneficial for cats that struggle to drink enough water throughout the day.”
The high moisture content helps keep your cat hydrated, which is important for their kidneys. (Pet water fountains, too, can ensure your kitty stays hydrated!) Wet cat food is also typically low in carbs, which supports your cat in maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, canned food is easier to eat for cats with dental issues because it’s softer than kibble.
Below, we share our recommendations for the best wet cat food — suitable for a range of budgets and featuring high-quality ingredients that provide the nutrients your cat needs. We also dish up advice from vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt on picking the right food for your kitty.
A 2009 graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Georgina Ushi works in the Tampa Bay area, providing compassionate care to dogs and cats. Alongside her clinical work, she consults for pet well-being brands and writes for her blog, Pet Health Love. Dr. Ushi is passionate about sharing her knowledge to educate and inspire pet owners, and her professional interests include emergency and critical care, wildlife medicine, nutrition, and hospice and palliative care.
Dr Joanna Woodnutt qualified as a veterinarian from the University of Nottingham where she then went on to practice companion animal medicine in the Midlands. She really took to the consulting side of things and helping clients with medical problems such as dermatology, behaviour and nutrition - anything that involved helping clients understand their pets better.
The quick list
The best overall wet cat food
Ziwi Peak's premium cat food is 92% meat and animal content, with no fillers or additives. While we've highlighted lamb, it also comes in a variety of flavors.
Best budget wet cat food
This affordable cat food is comes in a variety of flavors, packed full of nutrients, and covered in delicious gravy for a feline feast.
Best wet cat food twin pack
This cat food comes in "perfect portions" to reduce waste and keep food fresh, while the softer texture makes it ideal for senior cats too.
Read more below
Best wet cat food for easy feeding
The premium ingredients and paté texture of this cat food makes it perfect for discerning older cats, or felines with dental issues.
Best grain-free wet cat food
This wet cat food's grain-free formula makes it ideal for cats with allergies or digestive issues, and it comes with loads of flavor options.
Best wet cat food for urinary tract health
This wet food has a specially-formulated, low magnesium recipe that's ideal for cats with urinary tract issues.
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Best wet cat food for senior cats
This wet food contains all the nutrients that older cats need, served up as thin slices in gravy to make it easier for them to chew and eat.
Best wet cat food for flavor variety
This affordable and tasty cat food comes with a variety of flavors and textures to provide cats with a delicious meal that doesn't break the bank.
Read more below
The best wet cat foods we recommend in 2024
Why you can trust PetsRadar Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Best overall wet cat food
✅ You want a high quality, low-ingredient cat food: Ziwi Peak is a premium cat food that uses only the finest ingredients.
❌ You’re looking for a budget option: As we said, Ziwi Peak is a premium option, and you're going to be paying for that quality.
🔎 Ziwipeak Daily Cat Cuisine Tins Lamb: This is our top pick because it offers unbeatable quality in ingredients, packed with real meat, and with no grains or fillers. It's not cheap, but you get what you pay for.
If you have a little four-legged fine-dining connoisseur on your hands, then Ziwi Peak has you covered with its gourmet canned cat cuisine. This New Zealand-based brand is enjoying a meteoric rise in popularity and it’s easy to see why.
Ziwi Peak sets itself apart with its ethical, humane, and sustainable sourcing methods, as well as its strict quality standards. With Ziwi Peak, you can trust that you're feeding your cat a brand that prioritizes responsible practices.
The pros of Ziwi Peak cat food are abundant. Cats thrive on a meat-based diet, and Ziwi Peak understands this well. Their cat food contains at least 92% fresh meat, organs, seafood, and bone, ensuring your cat receives all the essential nutrients for a happy and healthy life. They use real, wholesome, and natural ingredients, completely free from additives and fillers. This commitment to high-quality ingredients guarantees that you're providing your cat with the best possible nutrition.
Another advantage of Ziwi Peak is the variety of flavors available. If you're not sure where to start, we highly recommend their lamb recipe. Made with 100% single-sourced, grass-fed, free-range lamb, this nutrient-dense loaf-style dish is sure to delight your feline companion. Cats love its meaty and juicy texture. Additionally, Ziwi Peak offers other flavors like lamb and mackerel, catering to different taste preferences.
However, there are a few cons to consider. The price point of Ziwi Peak is higher compared to other brands. While the investment in quality ingredients is worthwhile, it may not fit everyone's budget as a daily staple. It might be more suitable as an occasional treat for some cat owners. Additionally, the inclusion of green-lipped mussel in Ziwi Peak's food, while beneficial for joint health, may not appeal to cats with discerning tastes.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Ziwi Peak remains the clear winner when it comes to high-quality and nutrient-dense cat food. Trust Ziwi Peak to provide your cat with exceptional meals that prioritize their health and satisfaction.
Best budget wet cat food
✅ You want an affordable, nutritional option: This is a cheaper alternative that still puts an emphasis on real ingredients, steering clear of grains, artificial colors & preservatives.
❌ You’re want to avoid animal by-products: The cheaper price has to come with sacrifices, and while it avoids many other fillers, this cat food does us animal by-products.
🔎 Purina Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Poultry & Beef Variety Pack Wet Cat Food: This wet food offers tremendous value while only making a few small sacrifices to the overall quality. It's packed with meat, has no grains, and comes with loads of flavor options for curious kitties.
If you're seeking a cat food variety pack that can appease even the pickiest feline eaters, Purina Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Poultry and Beef Gourmet Wet Cat Food is here to save the day. This assortment offers a delightful mix of beef, chicken, and turkey dishes, ensuring your cat experiences a delectable range of flavors.
The small and delicate bites are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a tempting texture that is suitable for all cats, especially those with dental challenges who struggle with chewing. With high protein and moisture content, this cat food promotes overall well-being.
Purina's commitment to providing essential nutrition shines through in this product. Biotin supports healthy skin and coat, taurine maintains heart and vision health, while a range of vitamins and minerals contribute to strong bones, teeth, and muscles.
While these dishes have garnered popularity among cats, some pet parents have observed a higher gravy-to-meat ratio. Additionally, it's important to note that this product contains animal by-products, which may be a consideration for those seeking more ethical and sustainable farming practices.
Customers who have tried Purina Fancy Feast noted their cats enjoyed the texture and flavors, though they do note it is priced similarly to higher-quality options. Some people also found their cat did not enjoy the larger meat chunks. One reviewer experienced vomiting from their cat, potentially due to transitioning from organic brands - things to consider if you're currently feeding them an organic diet, or a smooth texture food.
Considering all these factors, the affordability of this multipack makes it an efficient and effective choice. It allows your cat to indulge in a diet rich in variety, taste, and texture, all while being gentle on your wallet. Treat your feline companion to the enticing world of Purina Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers, where mealtime excitement awaits.
Best wet cat food twin pack
✅ You want to avoid wastage: The twin-pack design helps you avoid wasting food or losing freshness with large tins, and it's especially perfect for cats who eat two wet meals per day.
❌ Your cat is fussy about texture: The soft paté texture might not be to your cat's taste, so be sure to try them out on it before buying in bulk.
🔎 IAMS Perfect Portions Healthy Grain Free Wet Cat Food: This wet food is grain-free, making it ideal for cats with allergies or digestive issues. While there are limited flavor options, you can be sure your cat is getting a healthy, delicious, and appropriately portioned meal.
When it comes to finding a cat food that offers convenience, nutrition, and flavor variety, IAMS Perfect Portions Healthy Grain Free Wet Cat Food hits the mark. The number of portions you receive depends on where you buy from. Chewy currently offers 12 twin packs, providing your moggy with 24 servings in total.
What sets IAMS Perfect Portions apart is its grain-free recipe, making it an excellent choice for cats with allergies or digestive sensitivities. By eliminating grains, this cat food offers a diet that is closer to a cat's natural nutritional needs. The soft paté texture is particularly beneficial for senior cats or those with dental issues, allowing them to savor their meal without discomfort.
Each portion is carefully portioned to provide your cat with a complete and balanced meal. This not only ensures your kitty is adequately nourished but also minimizes wastage. The individual seals on each portion guarantee freshness, ensuring that every serving is as flavorful and appealing as the last.
Customers on Chewy found relief for their cats' upset stomachs with IAMS Perfect Portions. The "perfect portions" format reduces waste and satisfies cats, though some struggled with peel-back foil lids. There were also a few complaints about punctured lids which affected product freshness. Overall, the indoor and adult pate cat food received positive feedback, with cats enjoying the flavors and the perfect portion size for older cats.
With IAMS Perfect Portions Healthy Grain Free Wet Cat Food, you can confidently provide your feline companion with a nutritious and delicious meal. The convenience, value for money, and thoughtfully portioned servings make it a top choice for cat owners seeking a high-quality wet cat food option.
Best wet cat food for easy feeding
✅ Your have an older cat: The paté texture makes this cat food easier to for senior cats to enjoy, as they don't have to worry about breaking up large chunks of meat.
❌ Your cat is fussy about texture: Another cat food with a pate texture, and again, this might not be what your cat is looking for.
🔎 BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless Singles Paté: This wet food has a smoother texture that makes it ideal for older cats with dental issues. Beyond that, it's a high quality food made with premium ingredients.
When it comes to providing a delectable and convenient wet cat food option, BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless Singles Paté stands out. While paté may not suit every cat's preferences, many cats, especially older ones with dental concerns, enjoy its smooth texture.
What sets BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless apart is its easy-to-serve packaging. With a built-in divider, you can effortlessly portion the paté without the need for utensils. However, if you prefer traditional cans, they are also available. This versatility ensures that serving your feline companion a delicious meal is a hassle-free experience.
BLUE Tastefuls offers a range of flavors, including whitefish, chicken, salmon, turkey, and beef. With no artificial flavors or preservatives, you can feel confident that you're providing your cat with a natural and wholesome meal. Each flavor is carefully formulated to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for your cat's overall health.
In addition to its palatability, BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless Singles Paté has a high moisture content, contributing to your cat's hydration. This is especially beneficial for cats who may not drink enough water on their own, promoting their well-being and supporting proper urinary tract function.
However, it's important to consider a couple of drawbacks. First, paté may not be the preferred texture for all cats. Some cats may prefer chunkier or flakier textures, and BLUE Tastefuls may not cater to their individual preferences. Additionally, while BLUE Tastefuls offers a variety of flavors, the selection may not be as extensive as other cat food brands, which could limit options for cats with specific flavor preferences.
In customer reviews, BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless Singles Paté is praised for its convenience and reasonable price, though packaging issues with odor and leaks have been reported. Some cats, particularly overweight ones, showed disinterest in the taste and gelatin-like texture. Nevertheless, this is mostly likely down to the cat’s individual tastes as another owner said, “My cat isn’t usually crazy about pate but will eat this. I like the 1/2 portion containers."
Despite these considerations, BLUE Tastefuls Spoonless Singles Paté remains a convenient and nutritionally balanced option for cats who enjoy paté. With its easy portioning, natural ingredients, hydrating qualities, and the inclusion of some cons, BLUE Tastefuls provides a reliable choice for cat owners seeking a tasty and practical wet cat food option.
Best grain-free wet cat food
✅ Your cat has grain allergies: Many cats can be allergic to grain, and this grain-free formula is perfect for them.
❌ Your cat is fussy about texture: And again, this is another cat food with a distinct texture that some cats might find unpleasant.
🔎 Wellness Complete Health Minced Grain Free Cat Food: The grain-free formula keeps allergens out of your pet's meals, but it also means a higher quality of food in general. That does come at a higher price too though.
Made with high-quality ingredients, Wellness Complete Health Minced Grain Free Cat Food offers a nutritious and flavorful option for your feline companion. With a grain-free formula, it is suitable for cats with allergies or sensitive digestive systems, promoting better overall health.
One of the standout features of this cat food is its wide range of flavors. Whether your cat prefers chicken, turkey, salmon, or other delicious options, Wellness Complete Health Minced offers a variety of flavors to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
The minced texture of this cat food is generally well-received by cats, making it a suitable choice for those with dental issues or senior cats who may find chewing a challenge. However, it's important to note that not all cats may enjoy the minced texture, as individual preferences can vary.
While Wellness Complete Health Minced Grain Free Cat Food offers exceptional quality, it's worth considering that it falls on the higher end of the price spectrum. However, the investment in this premium cat food is justified by the high-quality ingredients and the overall health benefits it provides.
Cat owners dealing with dietary problems highly praise Wellness Complete Health Minced Grain Free Cat Food's. Some experienced issues with faulty cans, such as inconsistent moisture levels. However, many still trust the brand and prefer it over dry food alternatives.
In summary, Wellness Complete Health Minced Grain Free Cat Food is a top choice for cat owners looking for a grain-free formula with high-quality ingredients and a wide variety of flavors. It provides the nutrition cats need while being suitable for those with allergies or sensitive stomachs. Just keep in mind that not all cats may enjoy the minced texture, and the price point may be higher compared to some other options on the market.
Best wet cat food for urinary tract health
✅ Your cat a history of urinary issues: This is a specialized cat food targeted at felines that suffer from urinary health issues. If that's your cat, this is the one for them.
❌ You're looking for value for money: Unless your cat needs this food for health reasons, you'll get better bang for your buck elsewhere.
🔎 Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health: If your cat has urinary issues, there is no better choice. The formula helps promote healthy urinary pH and reduces the risk of urinary stone formation, while also containing all the nutrients they need to keep the rest of their body healthy.
If your feline friend requires special care for their urinary tract health, look no further than Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health cat food. Designed to minimize the risk of urinary issues, this formula is a reliable choice for cat owners who prioritize their pet's well-being.
Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health contains low levels of dietary magnesium, which helps promote a healthy urinary pH and reduces the risk of urinary stone formation. This targeted approach provides peace of mind and ensures your cat's urinary tract is supported.
Formulated with real ocean whitefish and other high-quality ingredients, this wet food not only delivers on taste but also packs a punch when it comes to essential vitamins and minerals. With 25 essential nutrients, including taurine for overall health and wellness, you can be confident that your cat is receiving a well-rounded and balanced diet.
While the premium quality and specialized formula of Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health cat food make it a standout choice, it's important to consider a couple of potential drawbacks. Firstly, this formula may be on the pricier side compared to regular cat food options. However, the added benefits and peace of mind it provides make it worth the investment for the health of your furry companion.
Additionally, the flavor options within this formula may be limited compared to other cat food brands. It's important to ensure that your cat enjoys and accepts the available flavors to avoid any mealtime challenges.
One buyer's cat rejected an expensive vet-recommended brand but loved Purina's Pro Plan Urinary Formula, especially the gravy version. Commenting on the price, a reviewer on Amazon said, this food is "reasonably priced when compared to other suppliers." However, a different owner mentioned their cat no longer eats Purina wet food due to a formula change.
All in all, Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health cat food offers targeted support for urinary health, incorporating high-quality ingredients and essential nutrients. While it may be a bit more expensive and have limited flavor options, the benefits it brings to your cat's well-being make it a wise choice for cat owners seeking to prioritize their pet's urinary tract health.
Best wet cat food for senior cats
✅ You have a senior cat: Just like kittens need special foods, older cats also have different needs too. This food will help maintain their weight, joint health, and immune system better than regular cat food.
❌ You have a multi-cat household: While this food is perfect for older cats, it won't be much good for younger cats who happen to share the food bowl.
🔎 Royal Canin Aging 12+ Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food: Cat's needs change as they get older, and this wet food offers a balanced diet with senior cats in mind. It's easy to eat and packed with nutrients, helping them maintain a healthy weight and keeping their joints in top condition.
Royal Canin Aging 12+ Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food is a fantastic choice for senior cats. Tailored to support healthy aging, this wet cat food offers a balanced and delicious diet. With thin slices of meat in savory gravy, it's easy for older cats to chew and digest.
Packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants, it promotes overall vitality and supports the immune system. The formula is specifically designed to address the changing nutritional needs of aging cats, including joint support, digestive health, and maintaining a healthy weight.
However, it's important to consider the dynamics of your household before choosing this food. While it's ideal for senior cats, it may not be suitable for multi-cat households where younger cats are present. The thin slices in gravy texture may pose challenges for younger cats with different dietary requirements.
"Nothing to dislike. Wonderful food. My male wasn’t eating much and then I gave him this food and now he eats twice as much as he did!", said one enthusiastic Amazon reviewer. Another reviewer praised the convenience of Royal Canin pouches, with their cat enjoying the flavor and moistness. With a 4.8 out of 5 star rating on Amazon, this food is very popular, but there have been some complaints about its suitability for sensitive stomachs, and some owners felt it didn't suit their cats' tastes.
Always consult with your veterinarian to ensure that this food is appropriate for your senior cat and to discuss any specific concerns or dietary needs. Royal Canin Aging 12+ Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Cat Food provides targeted nutrition for aging cats and can be an excellent addition to their diet, supporting their overall well-being in their golden years.
Best wet cat food for flavor variety
✅ You cat likes to mix up food flavors: Some cats get bored of eating the same flavor every day, and this food offers a lot of variety to keep them intrigued at meal times.
❌ You cat needs a high meat content diet: Compared to other options on this list, this food has less meat and more filler grains like wheat and corn.
🔎 Friskies Gravy Stuf'd & Sauc'd: Variety is the spice of life. and this cat food offers it in droves. Not only does it have a lot of flavor options, but even within each meal there are different textures and types of meat for your kitty to enjoy, and all at a very reasonable price.
Looking to add a burst of flavor to your cat's mealtime? Friskies Gravy Stuf'd & Sauc'd wet cat food might be just what you need. With a variety of flavors and a rich gravy, it's sure to please your feline friend's taste buds. The affordable price tag makes it a budget-friendly option without compromising on taste.
However, it's important to note that Friskies Gravy Stuf'd & Sauc'd may have a lower meat content compared to some premium brands, and some variants may contain artificial ingredients. While generally safe, these additives might not be preferred by all pet owners seeking a more natural option.
Ultimately, individual preferences play a role in determining if this food is a hit or miss for your cat. While many cats enjoy the enticing flavors and saucy texture, some may have different tastes. As with any cat food, it's crucial to consider your cat's specific dietary needs and consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
Friskies Gravy Stuf'd & Sauc'd offers a flavorful and budget-friendly choice for cat owners seeking variety and moisture in their cat's diet. Give it a try and see if it becomes your cat's new mealtime favorite.
How to choose a wet cat food
Veterinarian, Dr Joanna Woodnutt, shares the key things to look out for when deciding on the best wet cat food:
Brand
Try to choose foods made by well-known and established brands. Diets should be formulated by an experienced pet food formulator and should have quality control procedures in place – this is more likely with established brands than new companies.
Nutritional Adequacy Statement
A wet cat food that’s going to be more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories should be formulated to be ‘complete and balanced’ and specific to your cat’s life stage (kitten or adult).
Tin size compared to calorific value
Wet cat food goes off quickly. If your cat is small, you might want to buy wet food that comes in smaller tins to reduce the risk of it going off. This is especially true if you’re using wet alongside dry food.
Consistency
Your cat will likely have developed preferences for consistency from a young age. If you don’t know whether your cat prefers gravy, jelly, or mousse-like textures, it’s best to buy one or two tins to start with!
Environment
Tins are easy to recycle and generally considered better for the environment than pouches, but if your cat prefers a particular type of food at least find out how best to recycle the pouches.
Should I feed my cats wet food or dry food?
When it comes to choosing between wet and dry cat food, there are several factors to consider. Wet food, offers numerous benefits. It has a higher moisture content, which helps keep cats hydrated, especially those who don't drink much water. Wet food is also often more palatable, making it an excellent option for finicky eaters. Additionally, it can be easier to chew, making it suitable for kittens, senior cats, or those with dental issues.
On the other hand, dry food, also called kibble, has its advantages. It is convenient to store, serve, and can be left out for longer periods without spoiling. Dry food can help maintain dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup due to its crunchy texture. It is also more cost-effective compared to wet food.
When comparing different cat food options, including wet and dry, it's crucial to consider the dry matter basis. This is especially emphasized by veterinarian Dr Jo Woodnutt, who cautions against directly comparing percentages of protein and fats without accounting for the water content. By converting percentages into dry matter basis, you can accurately compare nutritional values across different types of cat food. If you don't know how to do this, there are online tools which can help. Woodnut helped with the medical checking of this dry matter & calorie calculator.
Ultimately, the decision between wet and dry food depends on your cat's individual needs, preferences, and any specific health considerations. It can also be beneficial to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable option for your feline companion.
Is canned cat food better than a homemade diet?
There are several reasons why choosing one of the best wet cat foods available is better than making your own cat food at home. While you can find many recipes for homemade cat food, not all have the necessary nutrients (including protein) cats require to stay healthy. The Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery notes that homemade cat food should include supplements for calcium, taurine, and Vitamin D, or else your cat could face medical complications due to nutrient deficiencies.
Making your own cat food can be expensive, too. It requires you to purchase supplements and high-quality meat, which costs more than buying pre-made wet food. Plus, cooking your cat's food every day takes more time than opening a can or packet. In addition, store-bought wet food goes through rigorous quality control and nutrient-level testing, which isn’t possible with homemade diets.
For these reasons, it’s a good idea to stick with one of the wet cat foods from our list and consult your vet about the best choice for your kitty’s diet.
