Canned cat food is a popular choice of nutrition for many pet owners as it is convenient, inexpensive and provides cats with the necessary nutrients they need to stay healthy and active. Canned food can last for quite some time in the can, but how long does it actually last?
The shelf life of canned cat food depends on several factors such as the manufacturing date, ingredients used, and how the food is stored. Canned cat foods that are made with fresh ingredients and contain no preservatives typically have a shorter shelf life than canned foods that contain preservatives. However, even if you purchase a canned food that has been made with preservatives, it’s important to understand that these preservatives are not designed to last forever — they will eventually expire.
In order to ensure your cat’s safety when eating canned food, it’s important to check the “best-by” date on the label before feeding it to your pet.
This date indicates when the food should be consumed by; consuming any canned food past this date may put your pet at risk of illness or other health complications. Additionally, you should ensure that you store the cans properly and in cool, dry places as these conditions are essential for maximizing shelf life.
In general, if stored properly in cool dry conditions away from direct sunlight and heat sources, most types of canned cat foods will last approximately 3 years from their manufacturing date. However, if you purchase a canned cat food that contains no preservatives or fewer natural preservatives than usual (such as wet foods), then their shelf life may be less than 3 years — closer to 1 year or less depending on the specific product.
Conclusion:
Canned cat food generally lasts up to 3 years in an airtight can when stored correctly away from direct sunlight and heat sources; however, this timeframe can vary depending on the type of product purchased and its ingredients. It’s important to check the expiry date before feeding your pet any type of canned cat food in order to ensure their safety and health.