Can cats eat dry food only? This is a common question amongst concerned cat owners who want to ensure their pets are receiving the best nutrition.

As a vet with over 13 years of experience working with cats and their owners, I’m here to guide you through this topic and provide a professional perspective. Below, I've discussed the benefits and drawbacks of feeding cats a dry food-only diet and offered insights into why some cats and owners may prefer it.

If you’re looking for recommendations on top-quality options, don’t miss our guide on the best dry cat food. Let’s dive in to determine if this feeding method is right for your feline friend.

Can cats eat dry food only?

Yes, cats can be fed exclusively on dry food, but it’s vital to ensure that the chosen food is nutritionally complete and balanced to meet their dietary needs. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies require certain nutrients, such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A. These are primarily derived from animal products. High-quality dry cat foods are specially formulated to include these essential nutrients, making them a suitable option for sustaining your cat's overall health and wellbeing.

That said, there are important considerations when feeding cats a diet consisting solely of dry food. One significant factor is hydration. Unlike wet or canned cat food, dry kibble contains little moisture, which can lead to lower overall water intake in cats.

Since most cats naturally have a low thirst drive, this can increase the risk of dehydration and urinary tract issues, such as urinary crystals or infections. To help mitigate this, you can encourage your cat to drink more water by providing fresh water in multiple locations, using the best pet water fountain, or even offering wet food as an occasional supplement to their dry food diet.

Additionally, monitoring your cat’s health, including their weight, coat condition, and energy levels, is essential when relying on a dry food-only regimen. Regular check-ups with a vet can help ensure that your feline friend is thriving on this type of diet.

Pros of of dry cat food

Dry cat food offers a range of benefits that make it a popular choice among cat owners. Below are some key advantages:

1. Convenience
Dry cat food is easy to store, measure, and serve, requiring minimal preparation compared to wet food. It’s also less messy, which is especially helpful for busy cat owners who may not have time for frequent clean-ups after every meal. It is easily portable which makes it ideal for travel or for keeping food accessible during the day.

2. Long shelf life
Does cat food expire? Yes! However, unlike wet food, which must be consumed quickly once opened, dry kibble has a significantly longer shelf life. This reduces waste and allows owners to buy in bulk, making it both economical and practical for households with multiple cats or for those who like to plan ahead. Proper storage in an airtight container can further extend its freshness once the packet is opened.

3. Cost-effective
Dry food is often more affordable than wet food on a per-serving basis, making it a budget-friendly option for people on a lower income or those feeding multiple cats, including outdoor or stray cats. This affordability ensures that high-quality nutrition is still accessible without straining people’s finances.

4. Dental benefits
Some types of dry food are specially designed to promote dental health. These formulas are crafted with kibble shapes and textures that can help mechanically debride plaque and tartar from your cat's teeth during chewing. While this can be beneficial, it should complement – rather than replace – regular dental care, such as regular brushing and veterinary check-ups. If you want to learn how to brush cat teeth, we have a vet's guide that can help!

5. Free feeding
Dry food is highly suitable for free feeding cats, which is when food is left out for them to graze on throughout the day. This method is particularly helpful for cats with irregular eating habits or those who prefer small, frequent meals. However, portion control and monitoring are essential to avoid overfeeding.

6. Puzzle toys
Dry food works exceptionally well in the best cat puzzle feeders, providing an excellent feeding option and an opportunity for mental stimulation. These interactive feeders can help prevent boredom, encourage natural hunting instincts, and even slow down cats that tend to eat too quickly.

Cons of dry cat food

1. Low moisture content
Dry cat food generally contains only about 10 to 12% moisture, which is significantly less than what cats would naturally consume from prey in the wild, which consists of around 70 to 80% water.

This low moisture content means that cats relying solely on dry food may not get adequate hydration, especially if they don't drink enough water on their own. Over time, this lack of hydration can cause problems for our cat's urinary system, increasing the likelihood of urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or kidney disease, which are common health concerns in cats.

2. Risk of overeating and obesity
Dry cat food is often served in bowls that are left out for free feeding, allowing cats to nibble throughout the day. While this might seem convenient, it can lead to overeating, particularly in less active cats or indoor cats that don't burn many calories.

The high calorie density of dry kibble means that even small amounts can contribute to weight gain. Obesity in cats is associated with numerous health problems, such as diabetes, arthritis in cats, and heart disease, making portion control critical when feeding dry food. If you are not sure how much your furry friend should eat, read our handy guide on how much should you feed a cat.

3. Palatability issues for some cats
Worried that your cat’s not eating? Cats can be picky eaters, and some may find the texture and taste of dry kibble less appealing compared to wet food. Wet food, with its soft texture and strong aroma, often mimics the natural diet of cats more closely, making it more enticing. Cats that refuse to eat dry food exclusively may not get the balanced diet they need unless other food options are provided.

4. Concerns about quality
Not all dry cat foods are made to the same standards. Lower-quality brands may use fillers such as corn, wheat, or soy, which provide little nutritional value and can even trigger allergies or digestive issues in some cats.

Additionally, these products might lack sufficient levels of high-quality proteins, essential vitamins, and minerals that cats need to thrive. On the other hand, premium dry foods often prioritize better ingredients but can be more expensive, making it important for pet owners to carefully read ingredient labels and choose products that meet their cat's nutritional needs.

Why does my cat suddenly prefer dry food?

There are several reasons why your cat might suddenly prefer dry food or reject wet food:

• Texture preference: Cats are known for their finicky eating habits, and some may develop a preference for the crunchiness of dry kibble.
• Dental issues: Surprisingly, some cats with dental problems might find dry food easier to eat than wet food. It’s essential to have your cat’s teeth checked if you notice changes in their eating habits.
• Change in appetite: Stress, illness, or environmental changes can influence a cat’s eating preferences. Observing your cat’s behavior and consulting with a vet can help identify the underlying cause.
• Flavor fatigue: Cats can get bored with the same type of food. Switching up flavors or brands might rekindle their interest in wet food.

If you decide to feed your cat dry food exclusively, choose a high-quality option and monitor their water intake closely. For more tips on ensuring your cat is being fed the best nutrition possible, check out our guide on how to improve your cat’s diet. Your cat’s health and happiness start with a well-balanced diet – and you’re their best advocate.

If your cat won't eat dry food, be sure to check out our helpful vet's guide.

Choosing the best dry cat food can feel like an overwhelming decision, given the sheer number of products on the market. From air-dried and steam-dried, to raw cat food and grain-free – it’s tricky enough to understand what all these terms mean, let alone make an informed choice! So, I don’t blame you if you’re feeling a little bit lost.

To make this decision easier for you, I've rounded up the best options below, all of which have been approved by vets and tested by us (real pet parents, by the way). I didn’t just select any random food; I sifted through hundreds of products, filtering out any options with subpar ingredients.

I also consulted expert vets Dr. Hannah Godfrey and Dr. Joanna Woodnutt to understand what makes the best dry cat food, using their advice to compile my top picks. All of these products feature a high-quality protein source as the first ingredient and have nutritious recipes to keep your cat healthy – here's what we recommend in 2026:

The quick list

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The best dry cat food we recommend in 2026

The best raw dry cat food

As those of you who have cats that like to bring in the occasional woodland creature will testify, cats love the taste of raw meat, and this is the next best thing—especially if your cat dwells indoors. Proudly boasting organic credentials, it’s free from grain, gluten, and any other artificial preservatives you care to name.

Freeze-dried cat foods lock in the nutrients while preserving those tasty natural flavors, ensuring your cat gets all the goodness. The recipe lists meat as the first ingredient (meaning it’s the highest quantity) and uses a single-source protein, which could be good news for cats with allergies. Since rabbit is a novel protein (meaning it’s not commonly found in cat food), this is another reason why it’s a strong contender for allergy-prone cats.

However, you need to be careful when considering whether it’s the right food for your cat—some cats don’t do too well with raw meat diets, even if you only intend to use this as a meal topper.

Dr. Godfrey says: "Perhaps the major benefit of this dry cat food is that you can choose to add water to it or not. While dry cat food is great for keeping a cat’s teeth clean and healthy for longer, cats need to drink more than they would on wet food, and there are potential links between cats being chronically slightly dehydrated and kidney disease."

This product is currently with our tester; we'll be adding our full verdict soon.

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The best grain-free dry cat food

This tasty chicken recipe has GMO-free protein as the number one ingredient, along with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that help keep your cat at their healthiest. It also contains prebiotics and probiotics, which are helpful for digestion, the immune system, nutrient absorption, and gut health.

If your cat has any intolerances, you'll be pleased to hear that this food is free from grain, corn, wheat, rice, soy, or oats, and there are six different flavors to suit their requirements. You also won't find any artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, fillers, or animal by-products, which is always good to see.

As well as being a highly nutritious option, this food is one of the most affordable dry cat foods in this guide, costing 27 cents per ounce. Considering I and Love You is a premium brand that uses high-quality ingredients, we think this is excellent value for money compared to some of its competitors.

Dr. Godfrey says: "This recipe is balanced and nutritionally complete, containing lots of protein, which cats need for growth and repair of their tissues. It’s grain-free, which is beneficial for those with a specific allergy, but actually, grains aren’t inherently bad for cats, and some can be a good source of nutrition, as long as meat is the main ingredient. It also contains prebiotics and probiotics, which are great for maintaining gut health and supporting the immune system."

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The best premium dry cat food

When it comes to quality ingredients, ZIWI is a brand that never lets us down, and their air-dried cat food is no exception. The first seven (yes, seven!) ingredients are a protein source, all of which are ethically sourced from New Zealand and are free-range or wild-caught. If this is particularly important to you, have a read of ZIWI's farming policy.

The recipe contains green mussels, which are an excellent source of omega-3s, supporting skin, coat, eye, and brain health. The formula also includes organic kelp, which contains vitamins like iodine, excellent for thyroid regulation. You won't find any grains, potatoes, glycerin, or rendered meat or meals inside.

While we believe the price tag is justified by the quality, but if you want a more affordable option, we recommend choosing the Blue Buffalo food instead.

Our tester, Diana, says: "My cats loved it! Moving forward, I’ll use it as a food topper. It seals easily to keep its freshness. It's great value – packed with natural ingredients, and you recognize at least 90% without Googling. Plus, loads of protein, which is perfect for cats!"

Dr. Godfrey says: "While air-drying might be a safer alternative to feeding raw, reducing some of the risks like gut damage, blockages from bones, or illness caused by bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, air drying can, in some instances, reduce the nutritional value.

"However, ZIWI specifies that the cat food is gently air-dried, retaining nutrients that could be destroyed during more vigorous processing. It also contains more moisture than some other dry cat food brands, which may reduce the risk of kidney disease."

This product is currently with our tester; we'll be adding our full verdict soon

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The best dry cat food for sensitive stomachs

Has your cat got a sensitive stomach? If the answer is yes, this dry food is an excellent choice, thanks to the prebiotics that support a healthy gut and better digestion.

Take a look at the ingredients list, and you'll find chicken as the first ingredient, which means there's a decent amount of protein inside, important for muscle growth. You'll also see essential amino acids (like taurine and DL-methionine), as well as vitamins and minerals (like calcium carbonate and potassium chloride) to support your cat's overall health.

This food is also the most affordable option in this guide, costing only 24 cents per ounce. So, if you're after something a bit more affordable (without compromising on quality), this is your go-to choice.

Dr. Godfrey says: "Chicken and rice are ingredients that are easy to digest, making this a good choice for cats who are prone to vomiting and diarrhea. It also contains prebiotics, which can help promote a healthy gut and support the immune system."

This product is currently with our tester; we'll be adding our full verdict soon

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The best dry cat food for mature cats

Lily's Kitchen is another brand I know and trust – my cats seem to like every product they try. During my search for the best cat food for senior cats, this clean and healthy recipe caught my eye, and I just had to try it out. After five months of testing, I can confirm that this is still the best dry food for seniors, and my cats, Chilli and Nala, are obsessed with it!

The formula contains protein sources as the first three ingredients, along with vitamins A, D3, and E, plus taurine and L-carnitine. It also includes glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which help support joint health and are particularly beneficial for older cats.

The only downside is that the kibble has quite a potent fish smell, which isn't the nicest thing if you use your hands to take it out of the bag. However, the packaging conceals this smell, and it's never an issue once the food is in the bowl. It definitely hasn't stopped me from using it! While the packaging isn't resealable, due to the material, you can easily fold it and scrunch it up, and it will stay in place.

Dr. Godfrey says: "This recipe contains essential fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6, which support overall health and reduce inflammation of the skin and joints, making it a great choice for cats with sensitive skin or arthritis. It also contains supplemented ingredients like prebiotics, glucosamine, and chondroitin to promote a healthy gut and immune system and improve joint health."

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The best dry cat food for kittens

It might be tempting to feed your kitten adult food, but it's super important to provide them with a diet that's appropriate for their life stage – especially since little ones require three times more calories!

If you're searching for high-quality kitten food, this offering by Blue Buffalo won't disappoint and contains all the nutrients your fur baby needs for a good start in life. From omega-3 and omega-6 for skin and coat health to antioxidants for the immune system, this formula is packed with goodness and has the right amount of protein and fats.

The recipe is free from meat by-products, corn, wheat, and soy, as well as artificial colors and flavoring.

Dr. Godfrey says: "This dry cat food recipe contains the essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6, as well as being rich in antioxidants. These ingredients are great for a cat’s overall health. The nutrients are protected during production, using only gentle heating to avoid nutrient breakdown."

This product is currently with our tester; we'll be adding our full verdict soon

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How we tested the best dry cat food

During the research phase, I found the best dry cat food by checking the following:

Is the formula vet-approved? I consulted our team of in-house vets to determine if the food is a good choice.

Are the ingredients healthy, safe, and nutritional? I researched every single ingredient on the label to decide whether it's something you'd want to put into your cat's body. If we had any concerns, it was removed from the list!

I trolled through hundreds of products and was very particular about the quality of ingredients, narrowing it down to just six options. During the testing procedure, I asked pet parents the following questions:

• Did your cat enjoy the food?
• Do you think the food offers good value for money?
• Is the packaging easy to store?
• Does your cat seem satiated after eating, compared to their regular food?

Our review panel

For more information, check out our page on how we test.

How to choose the best dry cat food

Finding the best dry cat food to suit your feline friend can be challenging. If you're not sure which is the right choice for your kitty, there are a few important things to consider when purchasing.

Age: First, consider your cat’s age. Dry cat foods are often formulated and specifically designed for the age and size of your kitty. So whether you have older or younger cats, you’ll need a formula to provide the right amount of nourishment. If you're still not convinced, check out our feature that compares kitten food vs cat food.

Protein and fat sources: Look for quality first ingredients such as real chicken, lamb, turkey, salmon, and tuna, which are all rich in protein. Chicken liver and heart are both rich in taurine, an amino acid that humans produce but cats cannot. Generally, focus on foods that contain calcium, fats, and essential vitamins. And try to avoid those with artificial fillers designed to make your cat feel full, and lack any nutritional value.

Dr. MacMillan says: "Ingredients are listed in order of weight, so having a good-quality protein source higher up that list is desirable."

Dietary restrictions: Consider your cat’s dietary restrictions, needs, or conditions, such as allergies or weight issues. There are some dry cat food brands tailored to specific dietary needs to help maintain optimal health.

Value for money: Cost and value for money are other factors, as cat food can often be expensive. Choose a suitable quality brand within your budget and avoid the latest expensive trends. Of course, you need to consider your cat’s tastes and preferences as to what they like and dislike. Whether they prefer chicken or tuna, or large or smaller-sized kibbles, this will influence what you purchase. Plus it will make your beloved cat more happy, healthy, and content in the long run!

Food standards: Dr. MacMillan says: "When choosing a dry cat food there are a few things to look out for. Firstly, when shopping in the US, you should check that the diet meets standards set by The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). An AAFCO-approved diet will give you confidence that the food has been properly formulated to meet all your pet’s nutritional needs. Look for this approval on the packaging."

You should also check if the brand has a veterinary nutritionist on their team, clear feeding guidelines, and a comprehensive ingredients list.

How much dry food should I feed my cat?

How much should I feed my cat? As a rule of thumb, you should always be checking the product packaging guidelines for how much of it you should feed to your cat as this can depend on their weight and build.

But you are safest to consult a vet on this if you want to feel extra confident that your moggy is being fed the right amount and that the food fits your pet’s unique dietary requirements. A vet will also be able to advise on a good wet-to-dry food ratio for your cat’s diet.

Should you add water to your cat's dry food?

One of the biggest concerns that pet owners have around dry cat food is the lower moisture content when compared to wet food. In the wild, cats don’t drink a lot of water, instead getting most of it through their diet. This behavior has carried over to domesticated cats, which is why you’ll rarely see your furry friend drinking from their water bowl.

One of the best ways to help your kitty up their water intake is by adding water to your cat's dry food, and there is plenty of evidence out there to support adding water to your cat’s dry kibble. A study in the British Journal of Nutrition showed that cats who were given hydrated dry cat food had higher daily water intakes than those who relied on drinking water alone, so it really does work.

As an added benefit, adding water to your cat’s food will keep them full for longer, reducing their appetites and aiding with weight loss for cats. Research published in the Journal of Nutritional Science showed that cats fed on purely dry food diets had higher weight gain when compared to those fed on hydrated dry food diets. So, as long as your feline doesn’t turn their nose up at wetted food, it’s definitely something you should consider.

Dr. Rebecca MacMillan says: "In most cases, it is not necessary to add water to dry cat food unless your cat prefers their food a little softer. Young kittens may need their kibble soaked when it is first introduced, as well as cats recovering from oral surgery or dental treatment.

"Adding water to dry food can be helpful for cats suffering from cystitis or kidney issues, to help increase their water intake. However, most healthy cats will not need water added to their dry kibble."

Is dry cat food better than wet cat food?

Is dry cat food best? Woodnutt tells us that both wet and dry food can provide complete nutrition for your cat, and either is a suitable choice.

“However,” she says, “A wild cat’s diet is about 80% moisture, and this means they don’t need to drink much. Our domestic cats retain this low thirst drive, even when being fed a dry diet that’s just 10% moisture. This could theoretically lead to problems, and it’s true that dry diets are sometimes associated with obesity and urinary tract disease.”

“Nonetheless, dry food has the benefit of being easier to leave down or hide in puzzle feeders, and some dry foods benefit dental health. For this reason, I advise that cats are fed a combination of wet and dry food, with the majority being wet food,” Woodnutt advises. Dry food should be a high-quality dental diet in order to get the best benefits for dental health.

Is dry cat food good for your cat's dental health?

Is dry food the best choice for your cat's teeth? Dr. Woodnutt says that it’s a myth that dry food in general is good for dental health – there’s no solid evidence that either type of food is better or worse for your cat’s teeth. However, some diets have been developed that are specifically designed to be better for the teeth.

“These ‘dental diets’ are dry cat foods that have been designed to break in such a way as to ‘clean’ the teeth. They may also include ingredients that prevent the formation of tartar. A list of the dry diets that have proven themselves to be better for the teeth can be found on the Veterinary Oral Health Council website,” notes Woodnutt.

Does dry cat food go stale?

As you should with any pet food, check the 'best by' date on the packaging because the answer to this is yes. Often the product packaging will also recommend how best to store the cat food to help it keep fresher for longer.

The packaging is made to help keep the food fresh but sealing it properly after use and not leaving it out in the sun or somewhere particularly warm in your home will avoid it spoiling.

What are the benefits of feeding dry cat food?

Feeding the best dry cat food, also known as kibble, can have several benefits, but it's important to consider your cat's individual needs and preferences. Here are five advantages:

Convenience: Dry cat food is convenient. It has a longer shelf life, doesn't require refrigeration, and is easy to measure, weigh and store.

Cost-effective: Kibble is often more cost-effective than wet cat food, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious pet owners, especially in current times.

Portion control: It's easier to control portions and it can be particularly beneficial for cats prone to overeating and weight gain.

Convenient for free-feeding: Dry cat food is suitable for free-feeding, where you leave a bowl of kibble for your cat to eat at their convenience. This can be helpful for cats that prefer grazing throughout the day.

No refrigeration required: Unlike wet/canned cat food, dry cat food doesn't require refrigeration once the bag or box is opened, making it easier to manage, transport, and store.

If you are uncertain about any aspect of your cat‘s diet—the type, quantity, or frequency of feeding, consult with your vet to ensure that the chosen diet meets your cat's specific nutritional needs and gives you peace of mind.

If you're wondering, 'Can cats eat dry food only?' our vet's guide can help. Or, if your cat won't eat dry food, we have a few reasons why...

Pet food can be very expensive these days, so it’s important to keep it stored properly with the best pet food containers. Airtight containers can extend the life of your pet’s food, keeping it from going stale and saving you money in the long run.

Whatever size or shape you need, there are some excellent storage options out there. Larger tubs to store the best dry dog food, smaller options for the best dry cat food, portable containers on wheels, and plenty that come with convenient food scoops to help you portion out meals.

There are other benefits to pet food containers too — decanting a big, bulky bag of kibble into a sturdy, stackable box makes it much easier to store away in the cupboard. This makes feeding time a lot easier, as you can simply lift up the tub, scoop out the kibble, and slot it back onto the shelf. No more fighting with cumbersome bags and food bag clips that refuse to stay attached.

You can also store your pet food container next to the best automatic pet feeders, making the process of reloading these clever gadgets even easier.

The best pet food containers 2024

How to choose the best pet food container

Selecting the best pet food container really comes down to the space you’re working with, and the pet you have. Smaller spaces and smaller pets will require less space, but you may want something a little larger so that you can store several months’ worth of food in a single place. Equally, larger pets may require more food, so you should look for a pet food container that's big and stackable, unless space really isn’t an issue. Certain pet food containers can be stored outside but you need to be confident that they are sturdy enough to withstand the elements, and their airtight seal is strong enough to not degrade quickly.

In terms of materials, we would always suggest plastic, and always recommend that you check it is PBA-free and comes with some kind of assurance from a government agency. While you’re unlikely to get chemicals leaking into your pet’s food, it just isn’t worth the risk, and while you may save a few bucks on a cheaper container… you’ll spend big when it comes to veterinarian bills if your dog or cat does get sick.

If you want metal, always make sure that you’re storing it in a cool, dry area (because few come with airtight seals) and that you get a steel container with no harmful chemicals or elements that can rust. Rusted iron or lead in your pet’s food really, really isn’t good for them. Metal bins are often more attractive and expensive, so be sure they suit your practical needs when you buy one.

Does dry pet food need to be kept in airtight containers?

Pet food is just like human food — it needs to be stored properly in order to extend its life. As our expert vet Dr. Hannah Godfrey explains, “keeping dry food in sealable Tupperware or similar will help to keep it fresh and more palatable and prevent contamination from bacteria or molds, meaning it will last longer.”

Tupperware, or other airtight containers, also keep out air and moisture that would cause the food to spoil quicker. On top of this, they keep out bugs called storage mites, which Dr Godfrey warns can cause problems if your pet is allergic. 

“Storage mite allergies can cause your pet to have itchy and irritated skin, recurring ear infections, hair loss, and other symptoms” warns Dr Godfrey. Prevention is the best cure here, so she advises you “avoid their exposure by storing dry food in an airtight, sealed container, somewhere cool.” 

Finally, Dr Godfrey has a handy tip to preserve pet food for longer — portion your dog’s food into separate containers for each week, so that you’re not exposing the entire volume of food to the air at every meal time. This should keep the later half of the kibble bag tasting almost as fresh as the first bowl.

Airtight containers aren’t a magic preservative solution though. Pet food will go bad eventually, even if properly stored, so be sure to check the best before dates on the packaging. You should always store pet food in a cool, dry place, regardless of what container you’re using to hold it.

If you’re considering a change to your cat’s diet, you might be wondering, ‘Is dry cat food best?’ As fellow pet parents, we understand how overwhelming the sheer number of options can feel, which is why we’ve called in vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt to share her expert advice.

The good news is that both the best dry cat food and the best wet cat food are complete, balanced, and provide excellent nutrition for your cat. So, if you’ve been feeding them one and feeling unsure, you can rest easy. While both types are suitable, each comes with its own pros and cons, and your choice ultimately depends on your cat’s health, preferences, and individual needs.

Dry food is often more affordable and convenient, while wet food adds moisture to your cat’s diet, helping to reduce strain on their bladder and kidneys while keeping them hydrated. Below, Dr. Woodnutt compares the advantages and disadvantages to help you make the best choice for your furry friend.

What is dry cat food?

Dry cat food, also known as ‘kibble’ or ‘cat biscuits’ is a type of processed food that has had moisture removed to help to preserve it. It’s a very commonly fed type of cat food owing to its easy availability – you’ll find it in every supermarket and corner store across the country.

Calorie for calorie, it’s also cheaper than other types of cat food, because you aren’t paying for water. Dry cat food usually comes in bags, from 1kg in size right up to 15kg or more. However, it does go stale, and unless you have lots of cats, it’s advisable not to go for such a big bag – no more than your cat can eat in three months.

Pros of dry cat food

It’s commonly thought that dry cat food is better for your cat’s teeth. There is some evidence that a dry diet may keep the teeth looking cleaner, but it doesn’t appear to prevent periodontitis, which is the most common type of dental disease in cats.

Some specific diets have been evaluated by the Veterinary Oral Health Council for their ability to reduce plaque and tartar, and for those looking for a dry diet to help dental health, these are a better place to start than the average supermarket brand. Dry cat foods are also safe to leave down if your cat is a grazer. Unlike wet food, they do not spoil quickly and are unlikely to attract flies.

However, this can only be done in cats that can moderate their food intake – greedy cats quickly put on weight when left to eat all they like. The good news is that dry foods are also easy to portion – you can adjust right down to the individual kibble to make sure your cat is taking in what they need.

Kibble is also great for putting in slow-feeders, which allow your pet to ‘hunt’ and complete tasks to get their feed – great for mental and physical health.

Allowing your cat to express their hunting instinct is important, so feeding with the best cat puzzle feeder allows them to ‘hunt’ their prey and is an ideal way to keep them occupied for longer than the five minutes it takes them to finish a bowl of food.

Cons of dry cat food

Of course, dry cat food isn’t ideal for every cat, and it does have some major downsides. The biggest problem with dry food is that it contains 10-20% moisture, considerably less than the 75% that feline prey would contain.

So cats need to drink to make up for this – and they’re not great drinkers. Some of this can be overcome by investing in the best pet water fountains and novel water bowls, but for many cats, dry food doesn’t meet their water-intake requirements.

Dry cat food: The verdict

Some dry foods have been proven to reduce plaque and tartar, but not all. If you’re going to feed dry for this benefit, you’d be better off picking one of the VOHC accepted products.

It’s easier to portion and leave down for cats that like to graze. However, it doesn’t meet cats’ water intake requirements, which can cause urinary problems in some cats.

What is wet cat food?

Wet cat food comes in cans, pouches, or tins. It can also have a variety of textures; pate, chunks in gravy, chunks in jelly, or soup. Wet food is easily found at all supermarkets and pet stores. It can vary wildly in quality and price, but on the whole is more expensive than dry food.

Pros of wet cat food

Most cats prefer wet food to dry food, although there are always exceptions. Wet cat food is closer to the natural diet of cats in texture and water content, which is good for cats that don’t drink enough water.

Wet cat food contains about 75% moisture, and has been proven to increase urinary output compared to dry cat food. It’s great for cats that are fussy eaters and cats that have gone off their food. It can also be good for cats with dental pain – particularly the ‘pate’ types.

Cons of wet cat food

Unfortunately, feeding your cat wet cat food is likely to cost you more than feeding dry food. It’s also more difficult to portion your cat’s food (it’s hard to get three-quarters of a tin right!), and cats are prone to becoming overweight when pet parents consistently over-feed.

It also can’t be left out for your cat for longer than an hour or two, as it quickly goes off and attracts flies. Open cans should be stored in the fridge, but you might find you have to warm the food before feeding if your cat is particularly fussy. Un-homogenized wet cat foods (i.e. anything with distinct chunks) can allow cats to pick out their favorite bits, which means they aren’t necessarily getting a balanced diet.

Many owners say that their cat just licks off the gravy and they end up throwing the rest away, but these cats are missing out on vital nutrients. Wet cat food also can’t be used with most enrichment feeders, such as treat balls and mazes, and since enrichment is thought to be extremely important for your cat’s mental health, they might be missing out.

Wet cat food: The verdict

Wet cat food is ideal for cats with urinary or kidney issues, as the extra water helps these systems to function properly. It’s also great for fussy cats or those that have few teeth. However, it’s more expensive and harder to store than dry food, and some wet cat foods allow cats to pick their favorite bits and leave the rest.

Dry cat food vs wet: Which is best?

Ultimately, the choice between dry and wet cat food comes down to your cat and you. Does your cat prefer dry or wet food? Which option is best for your budget and lifestyle? Cats are very texture-based eaters, so if possible, introducing kittens to both dry and wet food from a young age is best so that they learn to like both options.

Both dry and wet food offer complete and balanced nutrition for your cat, so you can rest assured that whichever option you choose, your cat is getting all the nutrients he or she needs. Offering your cat a combination of wet food along with some dental dry food (look for products labeled with the Veterinary Oral Health Council Seal!) in a puzzle feeder is a great option to get the best of both worlds while also giving your cat some much-needed mental and physical stimulation!

You might also want to read our guides: Is wet food bad for cats? and Can cats eat dry food only?

It can feel very frustrating when your cat won’t eat dry food – and confusing if it’s what they normally eat! Not only is the best dry cat food a more affordable option compared to wet food, but it also lasts longer and is unlikely to attract flies, making it a suitable choice for free feeding and cat puzzle feeders.

If your cat isn’t eating completely, it could be caused by a number of health conditions (like pancreatitis or dental disease), so it’s super important to have them checked over by a vet. They’ll be able to provide a diagnosis and help you make the best decision going forward.

From dental pain to stress, there are many reasons why your cat may have gone off their kibble, and Dr. Rebecca MacMillan is here to help you work it out. Below, she’s explained five potential reasons for this change in appetite, whether it’s a cause for concern, and how to encourage them to eat it again.

Why won't my cat eat dry food? 

First of all, ask yourself this: is your cat only refusing to eat dry food, or is your cat not eating any food at all? If it’s the latter, then there may be something more serious going on such as:

1. An underlying health issue
Several conditions could cause a general lack of appetite. These include medical complaints, such as dental disease, upset stomach, infections, kidney disease, liver problems or cancer. Visit a vet who will examine your cat for obvious signs of disease and potentially suggest some further tests such as blood samples if they have concerns.

2. Behavioral issues such as stress
Stress and anxiety in cats need to be addressed. New pets or people in the home could put your cat on edge, or events such as fireworks or a recent house move. Identify the issue and eliminate them to potentially get cats eating again.

3. Issues with texture or kibble size
Kibble comes in various sizes and shapes and some of which may be more appealing to your cat than others. Naturally, kitten kibble will be quite small and easier for tiny teeth to manage. Adult cat food may be uniform, or it could contain a variety of shapes and your cat may have a preference for one over the other. Some cats just don’t enjoy the texture of dry food. Cats are carnivores (meat-eaters) by nature so might show a preference for moist, meaty foods instead of dry, crumbly kibbles.

4. A poor quality diet
Always feed cats a good quality, complete diet appropriate to their life stage (that is, kitten, adult, or senior). Some poorer quality commercial diets may contain less meat or meat derivatives, leading to issues with palatability.

5.Being fussy
Cats are notorious for being fussy eaters: what works for them one day, doesn’t always work the next! Some cats like variety, and receiving the same kibble each day might be boring. Other cats like familiarity and if you’ve recently changed the brand of their diet from the one they’ve always been happy with, this could also be the cause.

Changes to their food bowl could put them off too, or perhaps the location of their bowl. If your cat is getting lots of treats and titbits, then don’t forget this may be curbing his appetite and he could be developing a preference for these over his boring everyday kibbles

Is it bad if my cat won't eat dry food? 

There are some advantages to feeding dry food over wet food. It is easier to measure and weigh a cat’s daily rations, it’s less smelly and messy (which is particularly great in the summer) and some people claim that dry foods are better for a cat’s teeth (however, a study published in the journal Microbiome comparing bacterial levels and oral health between proved inconclusive – learning how to brush your cat’s teeth is better).

Overall, though, don’t worry. It’s not bad if your cat won’t eat dry food. As long as your cat is on a complete diet appropriate for his or her age, it doesn’t matter if it is wet or dry food. It is far more important to monitor your pet’s weight and make sure you are feeding the correct amount.

Why has my cat stopped eating dry food but eats treats? 

Maybe your cat feels poorly and can only be tempted to eat something really tasty, like a special treat. Or maybe your cat knows to hold out for the good stuff! Try to avoid feeding cats lots of treats because it will curb their appetite for their main meal and lead to a nutritionally unbalanced diet.

How to tell if your cat doesn't like their food 

Cats may explore their food bowl but take a sniff and walk away if they don’t like it. Others may have a few bites before giving up. It can be hard to tell the difference between your cat being unwell or just not liking their food, so take them to the vet for a check-up if their appetite seems off to you.

How to encourage a cat to eat dry food 

If you want your cat to eat dry food:

• Get them checked out by a vet. Dental or jaw pain can be off-putting for cats
• Try swapping brands for an alternative good quality cat food, with a different kibble size or shape
• Try moistening the kibbles. Soaking them in a bit of warm water before feeding can help give them a softer, meatier texture
• Make sure you give fresh biscuits each day and keep your cat’s food in an airtight container to stop it from going stale, making it unappetizing
• Always provide plenty of fresh water, as cats are thirstier on dry food diets

And remember, if your cat shows a general preference for wet over dry, this is not necessarily an issue so long as he is maintaining a healthy weight.

Want to learn more about wet food and whether it can make a nutritious alternative meal for your kitty? Then be sure to take a look at our vet’s guide to ‘Is wet food bad for cats?’ where we break down everything you need to know. Or, check out our feature that answers, 'Can cats eat dry food only? and 'Why won't my cat eat wet food?'

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food is an instantly recognizable product: If you haven’t heard of Whiskas you must have been living in a cave (at least if you’re from the UK). It’s among the best dry cat foods available. However, popularity doesn’t necessarily denote quality, so it’s okay to be suspicious of such brands. If you’re someone who is attempting to keep your cat healthy while on a budget, you may gravitate towards cheaper brands, which is where Whiskas comes in. Although there’s nothing wrong with looking at brands that cost less, you want to be sure that this doesn’t come at the expense of your cat’s health. Here, we examine whether Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food for adult cats with chicken offers the best of both worlds.

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Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food for adult cats with chicken: Features

Looking at the components of Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food, the primary ingredients are listed as cereals. Alongside this, there are meat and animal derivatives, oils and fats, derivatives of vegetable origin, minerals, vegetable protein extracts, vegetables (either peas or carrots, depending on the type), antioxidants and colourants.

When you break this down, it’s noticeable that there are fewer nutrients like protein (which comprised about 32% of its analytical constituents) in Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food, so inevitably it’s perhaps less nutritious than other, more expensive brands of cat food. Even so, among its included additives are vitamins D3 and E, so all in all, there’s enough here to keep your cat happy and healthy.

Not everyone that can afford the most expensive brands. But as long as Whiskas is healthy enough for your cat, then that should be okay. And we think that unless your cat has some very specific dietary needs, it most likely is.

The ingredients breakdown shows a variety of different ingredients, combining to hopefully produce something that will keep your cat happy. While the chicken flavor is the one we’ve reviewed here, we recommend combining different types – tuna and salmon are also offered by Whiskas, so why not pick up a few of each?

Moreover, in case you were in any doubt as to Whiskas’ credentials, the recipe contained within their food is endorsed by the Waltham Petcare Science Institute, in the process giving it a satisfying seal of quality.

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Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food for adult cats with chicken: User reviews

Overall, the customer reviews for Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food for adult cats with chicken seem generally positive, with (at the time of writing) 87% of its over 3,000 reviews on Amazon being 5 stars, and another 9% giving 4 stars.

The most common positive traits appeared to be the flavor and value for money – and we can see why this proved to be appealing for many customers

But Whiskas’ appeal isn’t solely due to it being cheap. One review reported that their cat preferred Whiskas even to treats, and numerous others said only positive things about the flavors.

Additionally, a lot of people like the convenience factor. The 7kg bags can be purchased in bulk from Amazon, making it a much easier process than carrying around huge bags of the stuff from the pet shop. If you like, you can even subscribe to a regular delivery, making this even more of a goer.

Whiskas seems particularly popular among households that have multiple cats. Again, this relates back to the affordability factor, but with no adverse effects recorded among this reviewer’s pets, it is no bad thing.

Inevitably, some cats will react in different ways, and not everyone found Whiskas to their liking. One well-informed customer pointed out the high level of carbs present in the food, at the expense of nutrients like protein. A select few recorded their cats turning their noses up at it, and even experiencing symptoms like diarrhea, although this could be put down to a quick switch in diet.

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Should you buy Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food for adult cats with chicken?

Ultimately, whether or not you should buy Whiskas 1+ Dry Cat Food will depend on your circumstances and what you can afford. There are undoubtedly more nutritious types of cat food out there, but ultimately this comes at a price. While Whiskas’ food is less ‘healthy’, this isn’t to the point where it would pose any kind of danger to your cat. There are enough positive reviews to testify to its effectiveness, both in keeping cats happy and making the care of pets more affordable for numerous households. While there may be healthier brands around, having Whiskas as your cat’s primary food source is no bad thing.