Canned pet food is a convenient and nutritious alternative to raw or frozen food for pet owners. It’s easy to store, can be kept for a long time, and is perfect for busy pet owners who don’t have the time to prepare fresh meals every day. But does canned pet food need to be refrigerated?
The answer is not as straightforward as you might think. Many canned foods do not require refrigeration, but there are some that do need to be stored in the fridge.
Generally speaking, canned foods that are higher in fat or protein content should be kept in the refrigerator after opening. This is because these types of ingredients can spoil quickly if left out in the open.
If your canned food has been opened, it’s best to transfer it into an airtight container before refrigerating it. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing on the surface of the food and causing spoilage. If you’re storing canned pet food for a long period of time, it’s also important to check that there are no signs of spoilage such as a foul odor or discoloration before feeding it to your pet.
Other Considerations
It’s also important to note that most canned foods should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. If you’re traveling with your pet and need to feed them from a can, make sure that you keep it cool by storing it in an insulated bag or cooler.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not you need to refrigerate canned pet food depends largely on the type and ingredients contained within the can. Higher fat and protein content will require refrigeration while lower-fat varieties may not need it. Additionally, any opened cans should always be stored in an airtight container before being placed in the refrigerator.