✓ Veterinarian Reviewed
Reviewed by Dr Gloria Ebeyer (BAVBS, DVM, Grad Cert SAECC, MANZCVS [Veterinary Practice])
Last reviewed: June 2026
How often does your cat sniff their dinner and look personally offended? Because, let us tell you, it happens to more owners than you might think.
Such behaviour leads us to the age-old question: is it better to feed my cat wet or dry food? The good news is that both can be great options… depending on your cat.
Here’s how to make the call.
Why cats can be so picky about food
Cats can be surprisingly particular when it comes to mealtime. Some love crunchy kibble, others will only eat food with gravy. And then there are the cats that seem to change their minds overnight just to keep things interesting.
Unlike dogs, many cats become attached to specific textures, smells and routines. Unfortunately for cat owners, those opinions can change without warning. That means a cat who happily eats pâté today might suddenly refuse it tomorrow unless it’s served in jelly on a different plate under a full moon.
Hence why the wet vs dry debate exists in the first place.
When wet cat food can be a good choice
Wet cat food can be a great option for cats who need a little extra hydration. Because it contains significantly more moisture than dry food, it can help support cats that don’t naturally drink much water throughout the day.
It’s also often a favourite among fussy eaters.
Cats are big on smell, and the famous kibble aroma… doesn’t exist. Wet food’s stronger scent can make mealtime much more enticing – especially if your cat has been turning their nose up at dinner lately.
And for kittens, senior cats or cats with dental sensitivities, the softer texture can also be easier to chew.
Need a hand picking a premium cat food brand? You’ve come to the right place. Here are our top recommendations:
Each has options available for different ages, dietary needs and flavour preferences. You’re welcome.
When dry cat food can be a good choice
Dry cat food is a popular choice for many households because it’s convenient, easy to store and simple to portion out across the day – especially via automatic cat feeders.
And if you’ve got a dignified kitty that prefers to graze rather than inhale their meal all at once? Dry food can work especially well.
Some dry foods are designed to help support dental health by encouraging chewing and reducing plaque buildup. Don’t get us wrong: dry food isn’t a deterrent for dental disease in cats. But it can still play a role alongside regular check-ups and good oral hygiene habits.
Our trusted dry cat food brands include:
And all have options for even the fussiest little food critics.
Can I feed my cat both wet and dry food?
Absolutely.
‘Mixed feeding’ simply means offering your cat the best of both worlds. For many pet parents, it’s a practical way to combine the benefits of both types of food while adding variety to mealtimes.
A few common mixed feeding styles include:
- Mixing a spoonful of wet food through dry kibble
- Feeding wet food in the morning and dry food at night (or vice versa)
- Using wet food as a topper to encourage fussy eaters
- Alternating textures and flavours throughout the week
But if you’re introducing a new feeding routine, take it slowly. Sudden diet changes can upset sensitive stomachs, so it’s best to transition gradually over several days while keeping an eye on your cat’s appetite and digestion.
A little trial and error is completely normal. Cats aren’t exactly known for making things easy. Speaking of…
Tips for feeding a fussy cat
Fussy cats can test even the most patient pet parents. So, if your cat has become a little selective at mealtimes, there are a few things you can try.
1. Warm their food slightly
Cats rely heavily on smell when it comes to food, so gently warming wet food can help release the aroma and make it more appealing. Even a few seconds can make a difference.
2. Experiment with different textures
Some cats love chunks, others like shreds, others prefer paste. If your cat suddenly loses interest in their usual food, changing the texture – not just the flavour – can sometimes help.
3. Make mealtimes calm and consistent
Feeding your cat at the same time and place each day can help create a routine they feel comfortable with. And remember: uncomfortable cats don’t eat.
4. Keep an eye on appetite changes
It’s normal for cats to have preferences, but a sudden loss of appetite or major behaviour change shouldn’t be ignored. If your cat stops eating, loses weight or seems unwell, it’s best to chat with a Petstock Vet.
If you feed both wet and dry food, be sure to account for the calories from each. A common mistake is feeding the full recommended amount of dry food and then adding wet food on top, which can lead to overfeeding. For example, if your cat’s daily ration is 100g of dry food, adding a can of wet food should usually mean reducing the amount of dry food offered.
Cat feeding FAQs
When it comes to feeding cats, questions tend to come as a side dish. Here are some common ones we hear all the time.
How much dry food should I feed my cat?
This depends on your cat’s age, size, activity level and the specific food you’re feeding. Always check the feeding guide on the packaging as a starting point.
How much wet food should I feed my cat?
Wet food portions vary between brands and recipes, so it’s best to follow the feeding recommendations on the label and adjust based on your cat’s needs.
Can cats eat dog food?
A small bite occasionally isn’t usually harmful, but dog food doesn’t provide the complete nutrition cats need long-term. Best to stick to cat food for cats, dog food for dogs and human food for you.
Can cats eat human food?
Some human foods are safe for cats, while others can be toxic. If you’re unsure, check out our guide to what human foods cats can and can’t eat.
Trying to keep your cat happy at mealtime? Shop cat food for every taste and texture at Petstock.