Canned wet cat food is a popular choice for many cat owners, as it provides a much-needed balance of proteins and other nutrients. The convenience of having a can of wet cat food on hand makes it a great option for busy households. But how long can you leave canned wet cat food out before it needs to be refrigerated or discarded?
The simple answer is that you should not leave canned wet cat food out for more than two hours, regardless of the temperature outside. This is because the moist environment inside the can promotes bacterial growth, which could make your cat sick if they eat it. When the temperature outside rises above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the two-hour rule applies even sooner.
It is important to note that this two-hour rule applies to both opened and unopened cans of wet cat food. If you open a can of wet cat food and your pet does not eat it all, discard any remaining food after two hours – even if the can has been sealed again. Additionally, if you are storing an opened can of wet cat food in the refrigerator, discard any leftovers after four days as bacteria will start to form on the food after this time period.
When it comes to freshness, canned wet cat foods are designed to remain safe and nutritious for up to one year when stored properly in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If stored properly in its original container with an airtight lid, canned wet cat food will remain good for up to one year past its “best by” date printed on the label.
It is important to remember that when it comes to feeding our cats, safety should always come first – which means taking extra precautions with canned wet cat food! To ensure your kitty’s health and safety at all times, always follow the two-hour rule when leaving canned wet cat food out: discard any opened or unopened cans after two hours at room temperature or four days in the refrigerator, and store unused cans away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures for up to one year from their best by date printed on the label.
Conclusion: Canned wet cat food should never be left out at room temperature for more than two hours; any leftovers should be discarded immediately afterwards or stored in the refrigerator for no more than four days before discarding them as well. Unopened cans of wet cat food may be stored away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures for up to one year past their best by date printed on the label. By following these guidelines carefully, pet owners can keep their cats healthy and safe while enjoying all that canned wet cat foods have to offer!