Mixing Wet And Dry Food Has Multiple Benefits For Your Pets

Modern pet owners have countless feeding options, from vet-approved homemade dog and cat food to eco-friendly choices. Many stick with dry kibble for its affordability and convenience, while others prefer wet food for its appeal. However, combining both can offer the best of both worlds, balancing cost, taste, and nutrition for your pet.

Mixing wet and dry food is a great way to entice a picky kitty or puppy. A pet may turn down dry kibble by itself, but adding wet food enhances its flavor and texture and can make meals more enticing. On the other hand, relying solely on wet food can be costly, but incorporating kibble can help stretch out a pet parent's budget. This mix can ensure your pet enjoys its meal without overspending.

There are also health benefits to mixing wet and dry food. Wet food contains between 75% and 78% moisture, compared to just 10% to 12% in dry kibble. The moisture content of wet food can help ensure a pet stays hydrated and helps move along the digestive process. Moreover, the density and moisture of wet food help pets feel more satiated, aiding in weight management. We just have one reminder: When planning meals for your pet, make sure you test your pet for food allergies so you can be mindful of any triggers it may have, and always adhere to specific nutritional needs based on its breed or health issues.

It's crucial to tailor your pet's diet to its specific needs. For instance, puppies and kittens require different nutritional amounts due to their rapid growth, and a veterinarian can advise on preferred brands and quantities of food during this vital stage. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about the ratio of wet and dry food you should give your pet. For instance, some pet owners go with a 1:1 ratio, while other pets fare better with a 1:2 ratio. 

For dogs, the transition to adult food typically occurs between nine and 24 months, depending on the breed's size. When mixing wet and dry food, look for products with an AAFCO (American Association of Feed Control Officials) label to ensure it's getting a balanced diet. For instance, the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Adult Wet Dog Food is a good combination with the Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food, as both are AAFCO-approved and made with natural ingredients.

Cats generally reach adult size by 10 to 12 months, though larger breeds — say, Maine Coons — may take up to 18 months. Cat owners should also check for AAFCO-labeled food to ensure nutritional standards are met. For example, a mix of the Hill's Science Diet Adult Dry Cat Food with the Hill's Science Diet Wet Cat Food could prove fruitful for your furry friend. When combining pet foods, consider potential dietary restrictions and adjust portions as your pet grows to ensure its nutritional needs are consistently met.

Dry pet food is cost-effective, shelf-stable, and remains fresh for 12 to 18 months when unopened. To maintain freshness, store it in a cool, dry place, and feed it to your pet within six weeks of opening it. An airtight container, such as the Gamma2 Vittles Vault Pet Food Storage Container, can extend its shelf life. If buying it in bulk, freezing portions of the dry food can help preserve freshness.

Wet pet food is also shelf-stable when sealed, but once opened, it should be consumed within one to two days and refrigerated between feedings. Due to the differing freshness timelines of wet and dry food, avoid mixing meals in advance. Finally, always check expiration dates and store wet food properly to prevent potential food poisoning. Another effective way to ensure safety is to consult the FDA's list of recalled pet foods. 

Now, read here to brush up on how much to feed your dog based on its weight.

Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search the American Animal Hospital Association's online database.