Purina provides a forum that highlights the differences between about wet or dry cat food. With healthy cats, the choice is really about the cat, not its health. Moisture content is the main difference, with dry food around 20 percent moisture and wet food at 65 percent or more.
While wet food may appeal to many cats, Purina Veterinary Nutritionist Dr. Dorothy Laflamme points out that
“. . . wet food should not be left out for more than 30 to 60 minutes at a time to prevent bacterial growth.”
Source: Purina Pet Care, June 12, 2018. Link.
It’s true that you decide what food to buy your cat, but she decides if she will eat it. Certain ingredients, smells, textures, flavors even where you place her dish can make your cat love or reject her food. If you serve wet or dry cat food and she refuses to eat, Laflamme reminds, “there are hundreds–if not thousands– of good quality cat foods available at grocery stores, pet specialty stories, online and through veterinarians.” Keep trying, and you will find a good fit for you and your cat.
INSIGHTS: Consider this content for websites, social media and cat owner communications. The 60-minute maximum time for leaving wet food out at room temperature is good guidance.