How Long Is Canned Cat Food Good for After Best by Date?

Canned cat food is an important part of a cat’s diet, as it provides essential nutrients that cats need to stay healthy. However, it’s important to pay attention to the “best by” date on the can, as after this date the food will no longer be safe for your cat to eat. But how long exactly is canned cat food good for after its best by date?

The answer depends on the type of canned cat food. Wet or canned foods tend to spoil more quickly than dry foods, so they should be consumed within two days of their best by date. Dry foods tend to last longer and can remain safe for up to six weeks after their best by date. However, it’s important to note that these are not hard and fast rules; any signs of spoilage or bad odor should be taken as a sign that the food has spoiled and should be thrown away immediately.

It’s also important to consider the storage conditions. Canned cat food should always be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat can speed up the spoiling process, so make sure the cans are stored in an area where the temperature remains consistent. Additionally, it’s important not to store wet or canned foods in an opened can; these should always be transferred into an airtight container before being refrigerated.

Finally, look for signs of spoilage. If your canned cat food smells off or there are signs of mold or discoloration on top of it, then throw it away immediately; these are signs that your cat food has spoiled and could potentially make your pet sick if eaten. If you’re unsure about whether or not a particular can is still good, then err on the side of caution and discard it.

Conclusion:

Canned cat food is an important part of a balanced diet for cats but it needs to be consumed with caution and attention paid to its best by date. Generally speaking, wet or canned foods should be eaten within two days while dry foods last up to six weeks after their best by date; however these times can vary depending on factors such as storage conditions and signs of spoilage. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with expired canned cat food – if you’re unsure about whether or not a particular can is still safe then discard it immediately.