Helping My Animal

Posted on: 27 August 2018

You may have been told at one time that wet food is bad for your cat, while at another time someone else may have told you the same thing about dry food. This has likely left you confused about what is best for your pet. Actually, you may be surprised to know that neither is a bad choice for your cat, though they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some pros and cons of wet and dry cat food to help you decide what is best for your cat.

Wet Food

Wet food comes in cans and pouches and is usually composed of high concentrations of protein with few grains and vegetables. Some canned food includes whole parts of real meat.

Pros

Wet food has a higher water concentration, which reduces the chances of dehydration and could possibly benefit cats with urinary tract issues. Good-quality wet food contains more natural protein sources that are similar to your cat's natural diet.

Cons

Wet food is often expensive and has a limited shelf life. Some brands of wet food contain low-quality proteins and fillers, so label-reading is essential. Veterinarians have occasionally expressed concerns about dental problems from a solely wet food diet. However, those kinds of problems can be counteracted by giving your cat proper dental hygiene.

Dry Food

Dry food comes in either completely dry, kibble-like form or moist, soft form. Most dry foods contain a higher concentration of carbohydrates and grains than wet foods as well as dried protein sources.

Pros

Dry food is very economical, and it can be left out all day. This makes it more convenient for cats that are pregnant and nursing and need to eat freely. Dry food may have some dental benefits, but studies are inconclusive.

Cons

Dry food is often filled with grains and other plant matter that are of little nutritional benefit for your cat. These foods also tend to be higher in carbohydrates, which may contribute to obesity in some cats. The low moisture content means your cat must have access to plenty of clean water to keep hydrated.

The key to feeding your cat is to find the type of food that works best for you, your budget, and your cat's specific health issues. Make sure you feed your cat the food with the best quality ingredients you can find and afford. If your cat has a specific health issue or allergy, then talk to your veterinarian first before switching around your cat's diet, as it could cause digestive issues.

Talk to a veterinary clinic like Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic for more information on developing your cat's diet.