Does Your Cat Need Wet Food?

If you’ve only fed your cat dry kibble, you may wonder about the need for wet food. Do cats really need it, or is dry food enough?

Since dry food has low moisture, your cat needs to drink water from a bowl, fountain, or eat wet food. Mixing wet and dry food can help boost their water intake and offers several benefits.

Keep reading to see if wet food is right for your cat and what benefits it can bring!

-- 5 minutes read --

 

1. Does Your Cat Need Wet Food?

Many vets will be in agreement that cats don't need wet food as long as they drink enough water and get the right nutrients from their other food.

However, wet food can be beneficial for cats, and there are good reasons to include it in their diet.

 

2. What Are The Benefits Of Wet Food?

a) Improves Hydration

Cats, being descendants of desert animals, have a low thirst drive and get most of their moisture from food. Wet food helps keep them hydrated, supporting kidney function, digestion, and overall health. 

A well-hydrated cat is more energetic and less likely to develop urinary tract infections or kidney problems. This added moisture can also help prevent the formation of urinary crystals, ensuring better urinary health.

b) Promotes Lean Body Mass

Wet food is high in protein, which supports muscle growth and development in kittens. It also helps maintain muscle mass in adult cats, especially those who are less active or older.

The protein content in wet food is essential for repairing tissues and supporting metabolic processes, contributing to a healthy weight and overall vitality.

c) Adds Variety

Just like humans, cats can get bored with the same food. Introducing wet food offers new flavours and textures, satisfying their cravings. This variety can encourage picky eaters to consume more food and ensure they receive a balanced diet.

Additionally, different types of wet food can provide essential nutrients that may be lacking in dry food alone, contributing to better overall health.

 

3. What Happens If Your Cat Doesn't Drink Enough?

In general, cats need about 100 to 130 mL of water for every 2.3 kg of body weight each day. This water can come from both their drinking and their food.

For example, a 4.5 kg cat should drink around 200 to 270 mL of water daily. Getting all this from drinking alone can be tough, so the moisture in their food is really important for their health.

If your cat is dehydrated, you might notice some of these signs:

• Lethargy: If your usually curious and playful kitty suddenly becomes tired or inactive, it could be a sign of dehydration. A drop in their energy levels is definitely something to watch out for.
• Dry Gums and Sunken Eyes: Take a peek at your cat’s gums; they should feel moist. If they’re dry and sticky, or if your cat's eyes look sunken, that might mean they need more water.
• Poor Skin Elasticity: You can do a quick test by gently pinching the skin on your cat's back. If it doesn’t snap back into place quickly, your cat might be dehydrated.
• Constipation: Dehydration can cause hard stools and make it tough for your cat to pass them. If you notice any changes in their litter box habits, it could be another sign of them not getting enough water.

If you notice any of these symptoms, visit your veterinarian asap, especially if you notice changes in their behaviour or appetite.

 

4. How To Get Your Cat To Drink More?

Tips to encourage your cat to drink more:

• Use a Water Fountain: Cats love running water! A fountain can attract them and encourage more frequent drinking.
• Provide Multiple Water Sources: Place water bowls in various spots around your home. Clean, fresh water in different locations can make a big difference.
• Flavour the Water: Adding a splash of tuna juice or chicken broth can entice your cat to drink more. Just make sure these are free from harmful ingredients like onions or garlic.
• Wet Cat Food Diet: Adding wet food to your cat's diet can boost their hydration, as it contains about 70-80% moisture.

Extra tips

• Use a Shallow Bowl: Some cats prefer shallow bowls because they can see their surroundings better while drinking. This can make them feel more comfortable and encourage them to drink.
• Keep Water Fresh and Cool: Cats are more likely to drink cool, fresh water. Change the water daily and consider using ice cubes to keep it cool, especially in warmer weather.

5. How To Choose The Right Wet Food?

When selecting wet food for your cat, consider the following:

• High moisture content: Aim for at least 70% moisture. This helps mimic the natural diet of a cat's prey in the wild.
• Quality ingredients: Choose food with high-quality protein sources and minimal fillers. Look for real meat, such as chicken, turkey, or salmon, listed as the first ingredient.
• Nutritional balance: Ensure the food meets the nutritional needs of your cat's age, size, and health status. Look for a complete and balanced label, which indicates the food provides all essential nutrients in the correct proportions.

Always check the label for these factors to ensure you’re providing the best wet food for your cat. Consult your veterinarian for recommendations that will best suit your cat’s individual needs if they have specific health conditions. 

 

5. Takeaway (TLDR)

As long as your cat is getting enough hydration from a mix of dry and wet food, they should be just fine. However, it’s crucial to recognise the signs of dehydration, as it can lead to serious health issues if ignored.

Wet food offers several benefits, including improved hydration, support for lean body mass, and added variety to their meals. A combination of dry and wet food is often the best approach to ensure your cat stays healthy and happy.

When choosing wet food, look for options with high moisture content, quality ingredients, and balanced nutrition. This way, you can provide your cat with the best diet possible while keeping them hydrated and satisfied!