A cat may enthusiastically respond to a particular pouch today and leave it untouched tomorrow. With wet food for cats, smell, texture, flavour and portion size all play an important role. However, attractive packaging is no guarantee that the food is right for your cat.
Three common pitfalls can cost cat owners unnecessary money:
First, check whether the product is intended as cat food for adult cats or for kittens. Kitten wet food is tailored to young animals and has different nutritional aims from food for adult cats.
Products such as Whiskas Junior Classic Selection and Felix Premium Quality Junior are intended for kittens according to the product information. The g'woon Chunks in Jelly Fish and Meat Variation Junior multipack is also labelled as complete wet food for young cats. Do not automatically give this type of food to an adult cat.
Also pay attention to the daily amount. This depends on age, weight, activity levels and whether the food is combined with dry food or treats. The guideline on the packaging is the starting point; adjust the portion if your cat’s weight or body condition changes.
The packaging will state whether the product is complete cat food or complementary food. Complete wet food can be used as the main food according to the feeding guidelines. A treat is something different.
INABA Churu cat treats, for example, are complementary food. According to the product information, these sticks are intended as a reward, topping or aid when administering medication, not as a replacement for a meal. Keep treats within your cat’s daily food allowance. For some Churu varieties, the manufacturer states a maximum of three to four sticks per day for adult cats; always check the packaging for your particular variety.
Texture often determines whether a cat accepts the food:
A 50g pouch, such as Gourmet Mon Petit Intense Duo Meat & Fish Mix, can be practical for cats that eat throughout the day. An 85g pack is a common mid-sized option. Large tins, such as g'woon Chicken & Turkey in Jelly 405g, are particularly useful when your cat eats a larger portion or when you can store opened food in the fridge.
Once opened, unused food should be refrigerated according to the instructions on the label. The recommended storage time varies by product. Use a clean, sealed container and preferably serve the food at room temperature.
A wet cat food multipack is useful if your cat enjoys switching between cat food with chicken and cat food with fish. Consider varieties with chicken, turkey, beef, rabbit, tuna, salmon or trout. A multipack also allows you to try different flavours before buying a larger supply.
However, do not look only at the number of flavours. Check:
Why it suits this profile: The 12 85g portions offer a range of flavours in a convenient pack. This makes it a practical starting point for households looking to try some variety.
The portions are smaller than a large tin, so you are less likely to be left with opened leftovers. According to the product information, it is complete food for adult cats.
Jelly texture, several meat flavours and 12 individual pouches.
Why it suits this profile: The fine mini fillets in sauce are suitable for cats that prefer a distinct chunky texture to mousse or jelly.
The ingredients and analytical constituents are listed in the product information. This means you can base your choice on verifiable details rather than just the appearance of the packaging.
Four flavour varieties, a sauce texture and 350g total contents.
Why it suits this profile: These sticks are intended as complementary cat treats for hand-feeding, as a topping or for specific feeding occasions.
The packaging clearly states that this is complementary food. This helps prevent a treat from accidentally replacing the main meal.
50 tubes, 91% moisture according to the product information, and two named protein sources: tuna and chicken.
Why it suits this profile: The pack contains 12 100g portions and, according to the product information, has been developed for kittens of all breeds.
The life stage is clearly stated. This helps you avoid accidentally choosing adult cat food for a young cat.
Junior formula, fish and meat flavours, and a 12 × 100g portion pack.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Yes, when the label states that it is complete food and you follow the feeding guidelines. Also check that the product is intended for the correct life stage. Complementary treats, such as INABA Churu, must not replace the main meal.
This varies by packaging. Many products recommend refrigeration and consumption within 24 hours or two days. Always follow the instructions on the label. Discard the food if its smell, colour or texture changes noticeably.
No single texture suits every cat. Gravy is suitable for cats that prefer small pieces with moisture, jelly has a firmer texture and mousse is smooth. If you are unsure, try a small pack or multipack before buying in bulk.