Welcoming a new bundle of fluff into your family is such an exciting time, but you may be wondering when can a kitten eat wet food? Being a pet parent can raise all sorts of questions, and trying to get to grips with what to feed our fur friends can feel like a bit of a minefield.

The best kitten food is available in both wet and dry formulas — but you'll want to start your little one off on wet food first. Once they're happy and comfortable eating soft food, you'll be able to start testing them out on some kibble.

If you're unsure how much food a kitten should eat, we recommend checking the label on the side of the tin which will provide you with some rough guidelines based on your kitten's age and weight. You can also speak with your vet who will be happy to advise you.

And speaking of expert vets, we drew on the extensive knowledge of Dr. Rebecca MacMillan to pull this piece together. Below, she explains exactly when a kitten can eat wet and dry food, whether one is better than the other and how to safely transitions your feline friend from wet to dry. Let's take a look...

When can a kitten eat wet kitten food?

The best time to introduce kittens to wet food is when they're still nursing but can start to incorporate other foods alongside their mother's milk.

"It is safe to start weaning kittens at around four weeks of age," says Dr. MacMillan. "They will usually begin by having wet food, or dry kibbles that have been soaked first in warm water to soften them."

If a kitten is bottle-fed, you can adopt the same rule as if they were feeding from their mother. Begin to replace some of their formula with wet food once they've reached four weeks of age.

Be sure to take a look at our guide for how often to feed a kitten for advice on creating a feeding schedule from the day your kitten is born through to their first birthday.

When can a kitten eat dry kitten food?

When can kittens eat dry food we hear you ask? Well, according to Dr. MacMillan, you won't have to wait too long before you can start trialing your kitten on kibble.

"Once kittens are happy eating soft foods, they can then safely explore dry food," she explains. "They may start by just playing with the kibbles, but most will soon get the hang of it."

Kittens tend to inherit their food preferences from their mother so this will likely inform whether they prefer wet food or dry food. If their mother loved dry food and ate that while she was pregnant with them, they will probably follow suit. The same goes for wet food.

Is wet or dry food better for kittens?

Is dry cat food best for kittens or is wet food the way to go? There's an ongoing debate around which kitten food is best but the reality is that there are pros and cons to both wet and dry foods.

"The decision may come down to owner preference, with many considering dry food to be easier and more convenient to store, as well as less prone to spoiling and odor compared to wet," Dr. MacMillan explains.

Is wet food bad for cats, then? Absolutely not. As Dr. MacMillan points out, many kittens and adult cats prefer the texture of wet food and find it more palatable.

"As long as your chosen diet is good quality and appropriate for their life stage, your kitten will be receiving all of the nutrition they need from either wet or dry," she says. "Of course, you could choose to feed a mixture, which many owners do. This can make working out feeding amounts trickier, however."

What happens if a kitten eats food too early?

"Weaning often takes place naturally, with young kittens exploring their mother’s food once their baby teeth have emerged at around three to four weeks. Therefore, it is very unlikely that your kitten will start eating ‘too early’," says Dr. MacMillan.

"Problems can arise if a kitten is taken from their mother too soon and weaned too quickly, however. A kitten should stay with its mother until it is eight to 12 weeks of age, by which time it will be fully weaned."

How to transition from wet food to dry food for kittens

Changing cat food is something that should always be done slowly, so if you're wanting to transition your kitten from wet to dry food, you'll want to do this over a period of days rather than simply removing the wet food and replacing it with dry.

"If your kitten has never had dry food before then you should introduce this to them gradually," Dr. MacMillan confirms. "Some kittens will start crunching on dry kibbles with no issues, whereas others may need them soaked initially to make them softer. You could also try mixing a few into their wet kitten food too.

Just remember that diet transitions should take place slowly over several days to avoid any stomach upsets. Also, some cats do seem to have a strong personal preference for wet or dry food, so it may be trickier to make the transition in some individuals."

You might also want to read: Why is my kitten hungry all of the time?

Is wet food bad for cats? This is a common question that many pet parents have, but it isn’t a straightforward ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Both the best wet cat food and the best dry cat food have pros and cons, and it ultimately boils down to the individual cat and their needs.

Since wet food promotes hydration, some vets recommend it for cats with a history of kidney or urinary tract disease, as it can help reduce strain on the kidneys and bladder.

However, most of the best automatic pet feeders are only compatible with dry food, so you won’t be able to schedule mealtimes using these devices. Wet food also spoils more quickly and doesn’t stay fresh when left out at room temperature, which is an important factor to consider.

Below, vet Dr. Elizabeth Racine outlines the pros and cons of wet food and explains how to choose the best option for your cat. She also uncovers whether it can really cause dental disease and if it’s too rich.

Benefits of wet food for cats

There are several benefits to feeding wet food to your cat. One of the biggest benefits is that wet food has a very high moisture content, making it the best cat food when it comes to helping your cat stay hydrated.

This is especially important for senior cats and those with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease or urinary problems. It can be difficult to convince a cat to drink more water, so transitioning to a canned food diet is an easy way to increase your cat’s daily water intake and improve overall hydration.

In addition to being high in moisture, wet food diets also tend to be lower in calories than an equal volume of dry cat food. Wet food diets are also higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates than dry food diets, which can help to maintain a lean body mass. For cats that need to lose weight, a wet food diet can be particularly helpful in this process.

Disadvantages of wet food for cats

The biggest disadvantage to feeding wet food to your cat is that it is messy and requires more clean up compared to dry cat food. Wet food also should not be left out for long periods of time as it will quickly spoil and begin to grow bacteria, which is unhealthy and unappetizing for your cat. After opening a can of wet food, it should not sit out for more than 20 minutes before being refrigerated.

Because wet food is lower in calories than dry food, you’ll also need to feed more of it to make up your cat’s daily calorie intake. This can quickly become more expensive than feeding dry food, which is why many pet owners choose to feed some dry in addition to wet food.

Does wet food cause dental disease?

A common misconception is that dry food is better for a cat’s teeth than wet food. We now know that this is not the case! Unless you are feeding a prescription veterinary dental diet, the type of food you provide for your cat has little to no impact on his or her teeth.

The propensity to develop dental disease is influenced far more by factors such as genetics, conformation, and your home dental care routine. The best way to prevent dental disease for your cat is by brushing their teeth daily.

This practice removes food particles and prevents plaque buildup. If you are unable to brush your cat’s teeth daily, doing so at least a few times a week is still beneficial. If you're unsure how to start, read our helpful vet's guide on how to brush cat teeth.

Is wet food too rich for cats?

Another common misconception is that wet food is “too rich” and will cause an upset stomach or diarrhea if fed to your cat. While there are certainly some cats who may not be able to tolerate certain wet foods due to food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, or other gastrointestinal illnesses, in general wet food is easily digestible for most cats.

If you’re concerned about your cat’s ability to tolerate a wet food diet, start slowly and offer only small amounts of wet food at a time until you have had a chance to see how your cat reacts to it.

If your cat’s stools are normal and there has been no change in their appetite or energy level, then it is okay to gradually offer larger portions of wet food until you reach your desired portion size.

How to choose a wet cat food

There are many factors to consider when choosing a wet food for your cat. First, you’ll need to find a wet food that is appropriate for your cat’s species and life stage.

Check the back of the can for the AAFCO Statement (US) or the Statutory Statement (UK) which should say something like “for the maintenance of adult cats” or “for growing kittens”.

You’ll also want to ensure that the wet food you choose is from a reputable company, which you can do by utilizing the World Small Animal Veterinary Association’s guidelines on selecting pet foods or by asking your veterinarian for a product recommendation.

For more information on how to select a pet food, you can learn how to read a pet food label or check out the recommendations from board certified veterinary nutritionists.

Want to learn more? We've also answered: is dry cat food best? and Can cats eat dry food only?

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.

The quick list

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The best wet cat foods we recommend in 2024

Best overall wet cat food

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.

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Best budget wet cat food

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.

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Best wet cat food twin pack

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.

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Best wet cat food for easy feeding

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.

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Best grain-free wet cat food

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.

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Best wet cat food for urinary tract health

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.

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Best wet cat food for senior cats

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.

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Best wet cat food for flavor variety

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.

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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.

Read next: Is wet food bad for cats? and How to improve your cat's diet. Or, if your cat won't eat wet food, this guide can help!

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?