Improperly stored cat food loses nutritional value, develops harmful bacteria, and can make your cat sick. Yet most owners do not think twice about how they store food. Here are the rules for keeping both wet and dry cat food fresh and safe.
Table of Contents
Dry Food Storage
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Keep in original bag inside a container | Bag lining protects against fat oxidation; container keeps pests out |
| Airtight container | Prevents moisture, mold, and staleness |
| Cool, dry location | Heat accelerates fat rancidity and nutrient degradation |
| Use within 6 weeks of opening | Fats oxidize, vitamins degrade after exposure to air |
| Never top off old food with new | Bottom food goes rancid, contaminates new food |
| Check expiration date | Expired food has degraded nutrients and potentially harmful compounds |
Wet Food Storage
- Unopened cans: Shelf-stable for 2-5 years (check expiration date)
- Opened cans: Cover and refrigerate immediately. Use within 3-5 days.
- At room temperature: Do not leave wet food out for more than 1-2 hours (bacteria growth)
- Cover method: Use a silicone can cover or plastic wrap -- prevents fridge odors from absorbing
- Serving cold food: Add a tablespoon of warm water or microwave 5-10 seconds to bring to room temperature
Best Storage Containers
| Container | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|
| IRIS Airtight Container | Dry food, multiple sizes, BPA-free | $15-30 |
| Vittles Vault | Large capacity, airtight seal | $20-40 |
| OXO Good Grips | Smaller quantities, excellent seal | $15-25 |
| Silicone can covers | Opened wet food cans | $5-10 (set) |
Signs Food Has Gone Bad
- Dry food: Stale smell, visible mold, insects, clumping, discoloration
- Wet food: Sour smell, unusual color, visible mold, bloated can (do NOT open bloated cans)
- Either: Cat refuses to eat food they normally enjoy (cats can detect spoilage before humans)
Freeze-Dried and Raw Food Storage
- Freeze-dried (unopened): Shelf-stable for 12-24 months
- Freeze-dried (opened): Use within 30 days, keep sealed
- Frozen raw: Keep frozen until use. Thaw in refrigerator (not counter). Use within 48 hours of thawing.
- Never refreeze thawed raw food
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I pour dry food out of the bag into a container?
Keep the food IN the original bag and place the whole bag inside the container. The original bag has a fat barrier lining that prevents oils from going rancid on contact with plastic containers. Plastic containers can absorb fat residue over time, which turns rancid and contaminates fresh food. If you have already been pouring directly into plastic, wash the container thoroughly with soap and hot water before adding a new bag.
