Joybuy Insights

Choosing wet food for dogs and cats: a practical guide to complete meals and treats

Choosing wet food for dogs and cats may seem straightforward: select a flavour, check the weight and place your order. However, there are several pitfalls that could lead you to pay too much or choose a product that is not right for your pet.

For example, attractive packaging says little about whether a product is complete wet food or complementary food. Terms such as “with chicken” can also create a different impression from what the ingredients list actually supports. Always check the product information and tailor your choice to your pet’s species, age, texture preferences and intended use.

Common pitfalls when choosing wet food for dogs and cats

1. Mistaking a treat for a complete meal

Not every product that looks like wet food is intended as everyday nutrition. Lickable snacks and cat treats are usually complementary pet food. They may be suitable as a reward or extra treat, but they do not replace a complete meal.

For example, INABA Churu and Felix Deli Moments are treats. According to the product information, they are intended as treats and not as a replacement for complete cat food. Give complementary food in moderation and take your pet’s total daily intake into account.

2. Focusing on the flavour name rather than the ingredients

“Chicken”, “chicken and turkey” or “with meat” on the front of the pack does not automatically mean that the product consists mainly of that particular type of meat. Check the ingredients list and look at the percentage where this is stated.

For example, CESAR Classic Chicken states that the product contains meat and animal derivatives, of which 4% is chicken. This verifiable information gives a more realistic picture than the flavour name on the front alone.

3. Looking only at the price per pack

A tin or multipack with a low purchase price is not always the best value. Also compare:

  • Net quantity per pack
  • Number of portions
  • Nutritional status: complete or complementary
  • Storage life after opening
  • Feeding guidelines based on weight and activity

A wet food multipack can be convenient for households with several pets or for owners who want to vary the flavours they serve. A large tin may be less practical if your pet eats small portions and leftovers need to be used within a short time.

Give these product specifications priority

1. Species and life stage

Only choose food intended for the correct animal species. Adult dog food is not the same as puppy food, and adult cat food is not automatically suitable for kittens.

Also check whether the label states “complete food” or “complementary food”. Products such as CESAR Adult and various g’woon and Sheba varieties are described in the product information as complete food for adult animals. Treats such as INABA Churu serve a complementary purpose.

2. Texture and portion size

The texture mainly affects ease of use and your pet’s preferences:

  • Dog pâté and cat pâté: soft and smooth, making it practical for animals that do not enjoy chunks in gravy.
  • Cat food in jelly: suitable for cats that prefer a firm, sliceable texture.
  • Dog food in gravy: contains chunks with gravy and can be useful for dogs that enjoy variety.
  • Fillets or strips: recognisable pieces, often intended as a meal or complementary treat depending on the label.

Pay attention to the size as well. A 60- or 85-gram tray is handy for a small portion or extra treat. 405- or 415-gram tins are more practical when feeding larger quantities, but require refrigerated storage after opening. Always follow the instructions on the packaging; several of the products mentioned recommend using unused food within two days.

3. Comparing analysis and ingredients

The analytical constituents provide information about protein, fat, crude fibre, crude ash and moisture, among other things. Only compare products when the values are presented in the same way. A high moisture content is normal in wet food, making a direct comparison with dry food less meaningful.

Also watch out for allergies or known intolerances. The product information for several of the articles mentioned states that they contain none of the 14 major EU allergens. Nevertheless, always check the current label, as recipes and packaging may change.

Recommendations for different types of pet owner

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
CESAR Adult Wet Dog Food Chicken & Turkey, Beef & Liver, Veal & Poultry, Lamb & Turkey Mix 4×150g

CESAR Adult Wet Dog Food Chicken & Turkey, Beef & Liver, Veal & Poultry, Lamb & Turkey Mix 4×150g

Why it suits this profile: The multipack contains four varieties of 150 grams each and is intended as complete food for adult dogs. This makes it easy to introduce your dog to different flavours.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The packaging states the species, adult life stage, portion sizes and composition of each variety.

Key benefit & highlights

Four flavours, 4 × 150 grams and, according to the product description, 100% complete and balanced nutrition.

Suitable for: Shoppers seeking premium quality
SHEBA Delicacies in Jelly Turkey & Chicken Multipack

SHEBA Delicacies in Jelly Turkey & Chicken Multipack

Why it suits this profile: A good choice for adult cats that prefer individually portioned meals with pieces in jelly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information describes the food as complete and includes portion-packaging and storage instructions.

Key benefit & highlights

Chicken and turkey varieties, jelly, a multipack and individual portions.

Suitable for: Specific uses & frequent users
INABA Churu Multipack Chicken 50 pcs.

INABA Churu Multipack Chicken 50 pcs.

Why it suits this profile: Suitable for owners who regularly want to offer a hand-fed treat, topping or reward.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product information clearly states that this is complementary food and does not replace a complete meal.

Key benefit & highlights

50 sticks, 600 grams in total and, according to the product specifications, 91% moisture.

Suitable for: Fans of soft textures
g'woon adult dog pate lamb chicken

g'woon adult dog pate lamb chicken

Why it suits this profile: A practical option for adult dogs that prefer pâté to chunks in gravy or jelly.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product page states that it is for adult dogs, has a pâté texture and includes storage instructions for opened portions.

Key benefit & highlights

Lamb and chicken variety, soft pâté and, according to the product description, complete food for adult dogs.

Storing and portioning wet food safely

Store unopened tins, trays and pouches according to the label in a cool, dry place. Once opened, any leftovers should be covered and kept in the fridge. The products mentioned often have a maximum use period of 48 hours; always check the packaging for your particular variety.

Serve wet food according to the stated instructions wherever possible. The correct amount depends on weight, age, activity and whether it is combined with dry food. If you give your pet a treat, reduce the main meal if necessary. Always make sure fresh drinking water is available too.

When switching to a different wet dog food or wet cat food, gradually mixing it in over several days is practical. Stop if you notice clear signs of intolerance and consult a vet if you have ongoing questions about your pet’s diet.

Looking for more options?

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.

Frequently asked questions about wet food for dogs and cats

Is wet food suitable as an everyday diet?

That depends on the wording on the label. If it states that the product is complete food for the correct species and life stage, it can be used as a daily meal in line with the feeding guidelines. Complementary products, such as cat snacks and treats, are not intended for this purpose.

How long does opened wet food stay fresh?

Many products recommend keeping opened food covered and refrigerated, and using it within two days. Always check the specific packaging. Throw food away if it smells unusual, has changed colour or has been left out of the fridge for too long.

Is a multipack cheaper than individual packs?

A multipack may offer better value per portion, but this is not guaranteed. Divide the total price by the number of grams or portions and check that all the flavours are genuinely suitable for your pet. For smaller eaters, smaller portions can also help reduce waste.