New cat parents might face a dilemma walking down the long cat food aisle inside the grocery store—what to feed their cats. They might be clutching a can of wet cat food in one hand and a pack of dry cat food in the other and weighing the pros and cons of each.
Wet VS Dry Cat Food
The debate between wet versus dry food for cats has not reached a consensus yet, but experts agree that each has its benefits and drawbacks.
Wet Cat Food
- Wet cat food is more expensive.
- Wet cat food can spoil quickly and will need refrigeration once opened.
- Wet cat food is less energy-dense.
- Wet cat food is rich in moisture, with a moisture content of 78%.
- Wet cat food is rich in fat and protein and contains fewer carbohydrates.
Dry Cat Food
- Dry cat food is cheaper and more economical.
- Dry cat food does not spoil easily.
- Dry cat food is more convenient.
- Dry cat food is energy-dense.
- Dry cat foods only have ten percent moisture content.
- Dry cat food contains more carbohydrates than protein.
- Dry cat food only has a slight edge over wet food in preventing decay and other dental diseases.
What Do Veterinarians Recommend?
First, cats are carnivores, and they are not made to ingest much or, if any, carbohydrates. Wet food contains fewer carbohydrates than dry foods.
Second, cats are naturally not huge water drinkers, and some will drink only on the edge of dehydration. Since wet foods are more moisture-filled, it gives them the water they need to support their overall health.
So most veterinarians recommend both, and it is critical to feed a well-balanced commercial diet to ensure that your cat gets enough vitamins and minerals. This is the best option for your cats because it gives them the best of both worlds!
Cat Food Overview
The golden mean is mixing both wet and dry cat foods, but there are other things to consider, such as:
- Malaysia regulates pet food. Before feeding it to your cats, make sure it has been approved by an official regulatory organisation. Feeding a home-cooked or homemade diet should be avoided unless it has been specially formulated by a veterinarian who specialises in making these diets, as these foods can be deficient in vitamins and minerals.
- Ensure that the main ingredients, which will be listed first, are meat and meat by-products, and try to avoid fillers, preservatives, and sodium as much as possible.
- If your cat has special needs or a health condition, consult your veterinarian about a diet tailored to their lifestyle and nutritional requirements.
- At the end of the day, make sure your cat enjoys their food. Because some cats are picky, it is our responsibility to find a food that appeals to them so that they can eat and live well.
A happy cat on a balanced diet will stay active and maintain a healthy weight.