How long can I safely leave cat food out?
Unlike dogs, cats usually prefer to eat a little bit throughout the day rather than eating all of their food at once. This means that cat food can be left out for a longer period of time. However, leaving food out too long can lead to spoilage. Molds and fungi take a few days to grow, while bacteria such as salmonella and listeria can multiply quickly under the right conditions. Consuming spoiled food can pose a serious health risk to your feline friend.
Does cat food need to be refrigerated?
The storage requirements for cat food depend on the type you are using. Dry cat food (or coarsely ground cat food) tends to last longer than wet cat food before it goes bad. If you find that dry cat food is better suited to your lifestyle, you can transition your cat food from wet to dry. Not sure which type of cat food is best for your pet? Zera’s cat food guide can help you make an informed decision.
How long can I leave cat food out?
Dry cat food is less susceptible to bacterial contamination because it does not provide a suitable environment for bacteria like wet food does. In addition, the high temperatures used to make dry food kill most of the bacteria in the ingredients.
You can rest assured that if you leave your cat food for a few days, it will not spoil. However, it’s a good idea to throw away any leftovers and wash the cat food bowl daily to keep the food fresh and flavorful. Keep in mind that dry food left out for a day or so can become rancid, making it less appealing.
Does wet cat food need to be refrigerated?
Canned wet cat food (including pâtés) is sterile and does not require refrigeration until opened. This ensures that it stays fresher for longer. Wet cat food is usually cooked thoroughly during the canning process, and preservatives are added to many recipes to extend shelf life. But once opened, how long will wet cat food stay fresh?
How long can wet cat food sit?
Once a can of wet cat food is opened, bacteria can begin to contaminate the food. Most experts agree that wet cat food should only be left at room temperature for 1-2 hours. After that, the food will begin to dry out and congeal, which reduces your cat’s appetite and creates an ideal environment for bacteria to thrive.
If your cat doesn’t finish the wet food in one sitting, this may indicate that you are feeding too much at one time.Zera’s cat feeding blog offers a guide to portion sizes with lots of helpful advice. Any unconsumed wet food should be refrigerated immediately after opening. Leftovers should be warmed to room temperature before serving, as most cats do not like cold food. You can keep unconsumed food in a zippered bag and simply rinse the bag under running water for a few moments before serving. Offering a variety of flavors of food throughout the week also encourages cats to finish their meals and reduces waste and spoilage problems.
For further information on feline behavior, check out our guide to feline sleeping habits to better understand your pet’s needs and preferences.
Helping your cat eat right
Knowing how long cat food can be safely left out is critical to your cat’s health and comfort. Dry cat food is more shelf-stable and stays fresher for longer, but it’s also important to change it daily. Wet cat food, on the other hand, can only be left out for a short period of time to prevent bacteria growth and spoilage.
Whether you choose dry or wet cat food, including tasty pâtés, keeping your cat food fresh and safe is always a priority. For more advice on feeding your feline or determining the correct portion size, Zera’s cat food feeding blog will provide valuable insight. Keep your cat happy and healthy with high-quality, nutritious cat food customized to their needs.
Choose the perfect meal today!
Updated December 29, 2023
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