Yes, you should refrigerate wet or canned cat food after opening. Refrigerating opened cat food is important for preventing bacterial growth, maintaining freshness, and ensuring food safety. Dry kibble can be stored at room temperature after opening.
Why Refrigerating Cat Food is Important?
Prevents Bacterial Growth
Wet or canned cat food provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth when left unrefrigerated. Refrigeration slows this growth, preventing spoilage and potential foodborne illness. Keeping food chilled at 40°F or below inhibits bacterial multiplication.
Maintains Freshness
Refrigeration preserves the natural taste, texture, and nutritional value of wet cat food. Cold temperatures prevent the food from drying out, changing color, or developing an unpleasant odor.
Ensures Food Safety
By limiting bacterial contamination, prompt refrigeration of opened wet cat food reduces health risks for your cat. Foodborne pathogens can cause gastrointestinal upset or even life-threatening illness in felines. Refrigerating leftover cat food keeps it safe for future meals.
How Long Can Cat Food Be Left Out Before Refrigeration?
The 2-hour Window
Once opened, canned cat food or package pouches should be refrigerated within 2 hours – even less if your home is very warm. Bacteria multiply rapidly at room temperature, so refrigerate uneaten portions promptly after mealtime.
Signs of Spoilage
Look for changes in color, texture, or smell that indicate spoilage. Discard any leftover wet cat food that has been unrefrigerated for over 2 hours. When in doubt, throw it out to be safe.
Food Waste Prevention
Portion meals appropriately to limit leftovers and make note of expiration dates. If refrigerated promptly in airtight containers, opened wet cat food can safely be kept for 3-5 days. Planning ahead helps avoid waste.
Proper Storage of Opened Cat Food
Refrigerating Opened Wet Cat Food
- Place leftover wet cat food in a cleaned, sealed container. Glass or plastic provides a bacteria-proof barrier.
- Store in the back of the fridge at 40°F or below. Use within 3-5 days.
- Label the container with the date opened and use by date for easy tracking.
Using Can covers or Ziploc bags
- If you don’t have a container, cover the opened can with plastic wrap or foil before refrigerating.
- Alternatively, transfer contents to a Ziploc bag, sealing tightly before refrigerating. Remove as much air as possible.
Avoiding Direct Exposure to Air
Minimize direct air exposure by sealing containers properly. Air contact causes oxidation which degrades cat food quality. Portioning contents into smaller containers is ideal.
Conclusion
Refrigerating opened canned or wet cat food is essential to retain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Use opened wet cat food within 3-5 days and monitor for any signs of spoilage. With proper refrigerated storage, leftovers can be safely reused. Always refrigerate opened wet cat food within 2 hours.
