Wet Food

The case for wet food

Wet food is roughly three quarters water, which is close to what a cat would get from prey. That makes it the easiest way to raise daily fluid intake, and it is often recommended for cats prone to urinary problems or constipation. It is also more palatable to fussy eaters and to cats recovering from illness.

Gravy or jelly

The difference is texture, not nutrition. Most cats have a firm preference for one over the other, so if a pouch comes back untouched it is worth trying the other style before writing off the flavour.

Serving and storage

Serve at room temperature — food straight from the fridge dulls the aroma that drives a cat's appetite. Cover and refrigerate anything left in an opened pouch or can, use it within a day, and take uneaten wet food out of the bowl after about half an hour rather than leaving it out in the heat.