How to Get Your Cat to Eat More Wet Food

Most cats love dry food and will eat it readily without any hesitation. However, wet food is very important for cats as it is healthier, usually protein based and can help your cat maintain a healthy weight. Wet food also has the benefit of a higher moisture content, which helps support kidney health and keeps your cat better hydrated, particularly if they’re not big water drinkers.

However, many cats can be fussy about food, especially if they’re used to eating dry kibble. Here are some tips on how to gradually introduce more wet food into your cat’s diet and encourage them to enjoy it.

1. Start Slowly with Gradual Transitions

Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden changes to their diet can cause resistance or even digestive upset. If your cat is used to dry food, start by mixing a small amount of wet food with their kibble.

Gradually increase the amount of wet food while decreasing the dry food over several days or weeks. This slow transition allows your cat to adjust to the new texture and flavor without feeling overwhelmed.

Tip: You can try mixing wet food with warm water to create a soupy texture that mimics the consistency of their usual dry food, making it more familiar.

2. Choose the Right Wet Food

 Cats have individual preferences when it comes to flavors and textures, so it may take some experimentation to find a wet food that your cat likes. Some cats prefer pate, while others may like chunks or shredded meat in gravy. Additionally, different flavors such as chicken, tuna, or turkey can appeal to their taste buds.

Tip: Try offering different types of wet food, either by buying small cans or sample packs, to see which texture or flavor your cat prefers.

3. Warm Up the Wet Food

Cats are more likely to eat food that mimics the temperature of their natural prey, which would be warm in the wild. Cold food from the fridge might not seem appetizing to them, so consider gently warming the wet food before serving.

Tip: Microwave the wet food for a few seconds or let it sit at room temperature for a while before offering it to your cat. Just be sure to stir the food well to avoid hot spots.

4. Create a Positive Eating Environment

Cats are sensitive to their surroundings, and a noisy or stressful environment might discourage them from eating. Make sure their feeding area is quiet, safe, and away from any other pets that might cause anxiety.

Tip: Keep the food bowl in a calm and consistent location where your cat feels comfortable eating. Some cats prefer eating in private, so placing the food bowl in a less busy area might help.

5. Make It Fun and Stimulating

Some cats need extra stimulation to eat, especially if they are reluctant about wet food. You can try offering wet food in interactive feeders, food puzzles, or by smearing a small amount of wet food on a lick mat. This can turn mealtime into an engaging activity that piques their curiosity and encourages them to try something new.

Tip: Experiment with different feeding methods to see what excites your cat the most. Making mealtime an enriching experience might make them more interested in their food.

6. Add Toppers to Enhance the Wet Food Appeal

If your cat still isn’t showing interest in wet food, try adding a small amount of their favorite treat or a sprinkle of kibble on top. There are also healthy toppers designed specifically to enhance the palatability of wet food, such as freeze-dried meat or fish flakes.

Tip: Be mindful not to add too many treats or toppers, as it might lead to an imbalanced diet. Use these additives sparingly as a way to entice them rather than replace their meals.

7. Offer Wet Food at Regular Times

Establishing a routine can help your cat get used to eating wet food. Try giving your cat his or her wet food at the same time each day, even if they don’t eat it right away. Consistency in feeding time can help create a sense of predictability and can encourage your cat to anticipate their food.

Tip: After 30 minutes, remove any uneaten wet food to prevent spoilage. This also reinforces the idea that mealtimes have a set window, which might make them more inclined to eat when the food is available.

8. Mix Wet Food with Broth or Water

Some cats may prefer wetter, more liquid-like food. You can mix wet food with a little bit of low-sodium chicken broth (make sure it’s free of onions, garlic, or other harmful ingredients) or water to make it more appetizing. This also increases the moisture content, further helping your cat stay hydrated.

Tip: If your cat enjoys the broth, gradually reduce the amount of broth while keeping the wet food consistent, so they eventually eat it on its own.

When to Speak to Your Veterinarian

If your cat still refuses wet food despite your efforts, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian. Some medical issues, such as dental problems or gastrointestinal discomfort, might make your cat reluctant to eat certain foods. Your vet can help rule out any health concerns and your vet can also give you additional guidance on your cat’s diet.

Encouraging your cat to eat more wet food may require some patience and experimentation, but the benefits for their health and hydration make it worthwhile.