Moist or Dry Food for Cats

Cat foods come in different styles, including dry and moist, also called canned, varieties. These differ greatly in moisture content, cost and perishability, but both can provide nutritionally complete diets for cats.

  1. Moisture Content

    • Moist cat food is made of a minimum of 75% water. This provides much of the hydration needs of the cat, so cats fed canned food will drink less water than cats fed dry food. Dry cat food contains 6 to 10% water. Cat owners should always provide a separate dish of water at all times, no matter what type of food their cats eat.

    Servings

    • Moist cat food is sold in cans, each of which is intended to be 1-2 servings. Dry cat food is sold in boxes or bags and can be free fed, allowing the cat to determine how much to eat at once. Canned cat food is more expensive per serving than dry food.

    Storage

    • Unopened cans of moist cat food have a long shelf life. Once opened, however, they must be refrigerated and used within a few days. Dry food can be left unrefrigerated.

    Nutrient Content

    • Dry food has a denser concentration of nutrients and energy than moist food due to the lower water content. Some gourmet canned foods may be lacking in certain nutrients, so owners should check the label.

    Feline Preference

    • Many cats will exhibit a preference for moist food over dry food or vice versa. Moist food has a stronger scent, which often appeals to older cats and those who have lost their appetite due to illness.