This is a very common question, and so Dr. Joana, a veterinarian, will help clarify it.
Both types of diet have benefits, and the best choice depends on your pet's needs, preferences, and lifestyle . In this article, we explain the main differences between the two types to help you make the best decision:
Dry food
Dry food is the most common type of food for dogs and cats. It has a low moisture content (around 10%), which makes it more concentrated in nutrients and gives it a longer shelf life.
Advantages of dry pet food
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Practical: it can be left in the trough for longer without spoiling and is easy to store;
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More economical: it's cheaper and yields more;
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It helps maintain oral hygiene because the friction of the kibble helps reduce tartar;
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Wide variety of specific formulas.
Disadvantages of dry food
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Lower water content : doesn't help as much with hydration, especially in cats.
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Less palatable: some animals prefer the taste and aroma of wet food.
Wet food
Wet pet food contains about 70% to 80% water and has a more appealing texture and aroma for animals.
Advantages of wet pet food
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Enhanced hydration: ideal for animals that drink little water.
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More flavorful and easier to chew: Great for senior animals or those with picky eaters.
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Helps control appetite: A larger volume of water increases satiety.
Disadvantages of wet food
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More expensive: Generally, the cost per meal is higher.
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Limited shelf life: compared to dry food, it should be consumed within a shorter period after opening.
The recommended option is a Mixed feeding , especially for adult cats and dogs. This keeps the animal interested in eating and ensures complete nutrition and adequate hydration .
This concept is called mix feeding. It consists of combining dry and wet food in the animal's daily diet .
