My cat constantly asks for wet food: How much can she eat, and what happens if she eats too much?

Vet. Tek. Deniz Utku TAMAY
13 hours ago
15 min read

Why do cats always want wet food?

The reason cats crave wet food so much isn't because they're "spoiled." There are biological , sensory , and learned reasons behind this behavior . While many pet owners see their cat wanting wet food as a problem, it's actually quite natural for cats.

Firstly, wet food has a much stronger smell and flavor than dry food. Cats are creatures that make decisions based more on smell than taste. When wet food is heated or opened, it releases a strong protein and fat odor. This triggers the cat's hunting instinct. Dry food, on the other hand, generally does not create such a strong odor.

The second important reason is moisture content . Cats have an evolutionary tendency to drink less water. Most of the animals they hunt in the wild already have high water content. Wet food is more similar to this natural feeding pattern. Therefore, many cats instinctively gravitate towards wet food.

Another reason is habit and the learning process. If a cat behaves this way for a long time:

If it has received wet food every time it meows
If wet food was given continuously as a reward
If it was "rescued" with wet food after being starved

Over time, it learns: "If I insist, I'll get wet food." From this point on, wet food ceases to be a food and becomes a behavioral demand .

Additionally, some cats experience tooth sensitivity , mouth pain , tartar buildup , and gingivitis. Situations like these can make chewing dry food uncomfortable. These cats prefer wet food because they eat it more easily. The owner may not notice this and may simply interpret it as "pickiness."

In short, a cat constantly wanting wet food:

It could be natural.
It may be a learned behavior.
It may be due to oral or dental problems.

Therefore, simply dismissing it by saying "they're being shy" is not correct. The reason behind the behavior must be evaluated.

Is it normal for cats not to eat dry food?

"My cat won't eat dry food" is one of the most common complaints heard in clinics. This isn't always abnormal , but it shouldn't always be considered harmless.

Some cats may genuinely show less interest in dry food. Here are the main reasons for this:

The dry food's smell isn't appealing enough.
Hard grain structure
It was previously fed with intensive wet food.
The change in feeding was done suddenly.

However, there is an important red line here: if a cat that previously ate dry food suddenly starts to completely refuse it, this must be taken seriously.

The reasons why someone might stop eating dry food:

Mouth sores
Toothache
Gum inflammation
General weakness
Nausea

Problems like these can be the root cause. In this case, the cat turns to wet food to avoid going hungry. So the problem isn't a "love for wet food," but rather an inability to eat dry food .

On the other hand, cats fed exclusively wet food and completely rejecting dry food develop pickiness over time. The cat begins to perceive dry food, which has less aroma, as "worthless." This makes maintaining a balanced diet difficult in the long run.

The critical point here is this:

Not every cat that doesn't eat dry food is sick.
But this situation should not be accepted as normal and completely ignored.

If a cat refuses to eat any dry food for 24–36 hours, only demands wet food, and its appetite has changed significantly, an underlying cause should be investigated.

How much wet food can cats eat per day?

There is no single answer to the question, "How much wet food should my cat eat?" The daily amount of wet food varies depending on the cat's weight , age , activity level , and whether it consumes other foods . However, to avoid confusing owners, it's necessary to provide clear ranges.

It is possible to outline a general framework for what constitutes an average, healthy adult cat.

An adult cat weighing approximately 4–5 kg needs around 180–220 kcal per day. Most standard wet food packages (80–85 grams) contain approximately 70–100 kcal . This means:

A cat fed exclusively wet food needs 2–3 packages of wet food per day.
If wet food and dry food are given together, the amount of wet food should be limited to 1 package.

The most common mistake here is that pet owners consider wet food an "extra," whereas wet food is a complete meal . Adding wet food uncontrollably on top of dry food leads to an unintentional oversupply of calories for the cat.

For example:

Free-range dry food in the morning.
1-2 packets of wet food in the evening

This diet means too many calories for most cats. The cat will continue to eat because it has a good appetite, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's healthy.

Another important point is the number of feedings. Wet food should not be given in large portions at once. Daily wet food consumption:

It should be divided into 2 meals.
It should not be left outside for a long time after opening.

In summary:

The daily amount of wet food should be checked.
The approach of "let them eat as much as they want" is not correct.
Wet food should definitely be included in the total daily diet.

What happens if too much wet food is given?

Problems that arise from overfeeding wet food often develop silently and slowly . Therefore, by the time many owners notice the problem, it's often too late.

The most common result is weight gain and obesity . Wet foods contain high levels of fat and protein. When given continuously and uncontrollably, especially in domestic cats, fat tissue increases rapidly. Obesity, however, is not just a problem in itself; it opens the door to many diseases.

The main problems that excessive wet food consumption can cause are as follows:

Obesity and inactivity
Insulin resistance and diabetes risk.
Fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis)
Increased food selectivity
Completely reject dry food.

In addition, cats that are consistently given wet food may develop behavioral dependencies . The cat will want wet food not because it is hungry, but because of habit and expectation. Behaviors such as meowing, waiting by the food source, and restlessness are common during this period.

There are also risks from a digestive system perspective. Sudden and excessive consumption of wet food:

Soft stools
Diarrhea from time to time
Gas and abdominal discomfort

This can lead to problems such as those listed above. This is especially noticeable in cats with sensitive digestive systems.

Dental health should also be considered. Wet food accumulates more easily on the tooth surface. In cats fed only wet food:

Tartar formation
Gum problems
Bad breath

It occurs more frequently.

The critical point here is this: wet food alone is not harmful. It is harmful when given uncontrolled and without limits .

Possible Health Problems in Cats That Continuously Eat Wet Food

In cats fed wet food continuously and uncontrollably, certain health problems may appear not quickly, but over months and years . Therefore, many owners don't consider feeding habits a problem until a clinical picture emerges.

One of the most common problems is excessive weight gain . In house cats, the already limited range of motion, combined with high-calorie wet food, leads to a rapid increase in fat tissue. Weight gain is not just an aesthetic problem; it increases the load on the joints, reduces the desire to play and be active, creating a vicious cycle.

Another significant risk is disruption of blood sugar balance . Cats fed high-calorie and irregular diets for a long time may develop insulin resistance. This increases the risk of diabetes, especially in neutered and middle-aged cats.

Fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis) also presents an indirect risk. In cats that are overweight or whose feeding habits are frequently disrupted, sudden periods of loss of appetite can severely strain the liver. This condition poses a life-threatening risk for cats.

Consistent consumption of wet food can also negatively affect oral and dental health . Wet food remains on the tooth surface for longer periods, facilitating plaque formation. Over time:

Dental calculus
Gum inflammation
Bad breath

Problems like these can arise. This can cause the cat to reject dry food even more, and the feeding problem will deepen.

From a behavioral perspective, food dependency can develop. The cat may ask for wet food even when not hungry, and may show restlessness and excessive meowing when food is not provided. Over time, this behavior can become a source of stress in the home.

Wet Food or Dry Food? Which is Healthier?

This question is often perceived as a "one is good, the other is bad" dilemma. However, the reality is not that simple. Wet and dry food are not alternatives to each other, but rather complementary when used correctly .

Advantages of wet food:

It supports water absorption thanks to its high moisture content.
It's delicious and encourages eating in cats with poor appetites.
It is more easily tolerated in cases of certain digestive problems.

Advantages of dry food:

Provides mechanical cleaning of the tooth surface.
It can remain intact for a long time.
Calorie control is easier.

Cats fed exclusively wet food may have difficulty maintaining dental health and nutritional balance. Conversely, cats fed exclusively dry food may experience more frequent dehydration and urinary tract problems.

Therefore, the healthiest approach is to strike a balance . The cat should be able to eat both dry food and wet food in moderation. This way:

Dietary diversity is ensured.
Excessive calorie intake is prevented.
The risk of behavioral addiction decreases.

In summary:

Wet food alone is not a miracle cure.
Dry food alone may not be sufficient.
The correct ratio should be determined based on the cat's individual condition.

How to Balance Wet and Dry Foods for Cats?

The balance between wet and dry food is one of the most critical aspects of a cat's healthy diet. The goal here isn't to force one type of food on the cat, but to create a feeding regimen that allows the cat to tolerate both .

In general, the safest approach for a healthy adult cat is this: Wet food should be a small but regular part of their daily diet, while dry food should remain their primary source of nutrition.

To give a practical example of balance:

Moderate amounts of dry food throughout the day.
Wet food once a day, at a specific time.

This system allows the cat to enjoy the taste of wet food while also preventing it from completely rejecting dry food.

The most common mistake is giving wet food at random times . If wet food is given every time the cat meows, it breaks away from a feeding routine and becomes a behavioral reward. This quickly reduces the cat's interest in dry food.

There are some key points to consider in order to maintain balance:

Wet food should be given at the same times every day.
Total daily calories must be calculated.
Dry food should not be completely eliminated.
Wet food should be given alongside dry food, not as a replacement.

If your cat has started to completely reject dry food, you shouldn't suddenly increase the amount of dry food while reducing the amount of wet food. Sudden changes can lead to loss of appetite and digestive problems in cats.

Patience is key in this process. With proper planning, many cats will start accepting dry food again within a few weeks.

Sample Feeding Plan for Cats That Eat Only Wet Food

Some cats may refuse dry food for extended periods despite all efforts. In this case, instead of "doing nothing," it's necessary to establish a controlled wet food plan .

The biggest risk for cats fed exclusively wet food is unintentional calorie intake . Therefore, portion sizes and feeding frequency must be clear.

A sample plan for an adult cat weighing an average of 4–5 kg might look like this:

Morning: Half a pack of wet food
Evening: Half a pack of wet food
Throughout the day: Continuous access to fresh, clean water.

This plan offers a framework that closely matches the cat's daily needs. However, it is important that the wet food is complete and balanced . Long-term feeding with only supplementary products is not correct.

In cats fed exclusively wet food, the following should also be considered:

Regular weight monitoring should be done.
Stool consistency and frequency should be observed.
Oral and dental health should not be neglected.

These cats shouldn't be completely discouraged from trying dry food from time to time. Even offering dry food a few times a week can prevent the cat from becoming averse to it.

My cat is used to wet food, how do I switch her to dry food?

It is possible to gradually transition a cat accustomed to wet food back to dry food, but this process should be done slowly and in a controlled manner . Sudden transitions often backfire, and the cat may refuse to eat it altogether.

The first thing to do is to make wet food a planned meal, not a treat . The cat shouldn't get wet food whenever it wants. It's difficult to transition to dry food without correcting this behavior.

The key steps that can be followed during the transition period are as follows:

Wet food should be given at the same time every day.
The daily amount of wet food should be gradually reduced.
Dry food should always be readily available.

Initially, adding a very small amount of dry food crumbs to the wet food may work for some cats. However, this method is not suitable for every cat. It should be done gently, observing the cat's reaction.

Another effective method is to enhance the scent of the dry food. Adding a very small amount of wet food liquid or warm water to the dry food can increase the cat's interest. However, the food should absolutely not be pureed or left to sit for a long time.

The most common mistake during this process is panicking and switching back entirely to wet food when the cat doesn't eat a few meals of dry food. This behavior reinforces the cat's resistance. A healthy adult cat will not suffer serious harm from a short period of loss of appetite. However, it should be evaluated if this situation lasts longer than 48 hours.

Patience and consistency are the two most important elements of this process. Most cats will start accepting dry food again within a few weeks.

Which cats need more wet food?

Not all cats have the same need for wet food. For some cats, wet food can become an important part of their diet , not just a preference.

Wet food is particularly beneficial for cats with low water intake, as it helps support fluid regulation. This is even more important for cats prone to urinary tract problems.

The following cat groups may have a higher need for wet food:

Old cats
Cats with mouth and dental problems
Cats experiencing loss of appetite
Some cats with chronic diseases

Older cats may have reduced chewing ability and a weakened sense of smell. These cats tend to accept wet food more easily. However, portion control should not be neglected here either.

For cats with oral problems, wet food is preferred because dry food can cause pain. In this case, wet food can be a solution, but the underlying problem needs to be evaluated.

Some cats may experience loss of appetite during stressful periods. In such cases, wet food can be used as a temporary supplement. However, it is not advisable to make it their sole source of nutrition in the long term.

Wet Food Consumption in Kittens, Adult Cats, and Senior Cats

The need for wet food varies significantly depending on the cat's life stage. Kittens, adult cats, and senior cats have different nutritional requirements, and wet food plays a different role in these different phases.

Wet food is generally more important for kittens . Their teeth are not fully developed, making it difficult for them to chew dry food. They also have high energy and protein needs. However, the critical point here is that the wet food given must be formulated specifically for kittens . Wet food for adult cats does not provide adequate nutritional balance for kittens.

Wet food for kittens:

It should be given in divided meals throughout the day.
It can be a main source of nutrition.
The growth process should be closely monitored.

In adult cats, wet food plays more of a balancing and supportive role. During this period, wet food generally:

It should form a small part of the daily diet.
It should not completely replace dry food.

Uncontrolled consumption of wet food in adult cats is the period when they are most prone to weight gain. Therefore, portion control is especially important during this phase.

The situation is slightly different for older cats . Due to a decreased sense of smell, dental problems, and digestive sensitivities, wet food can play a role in increasing appetite. However, excessive wet food consumption in older cats can also accelerate muscle loss and make weight control more difficult.

Wet food for senior cats:

It should be given more frequently but in small portions.
Digestive tolerance should be monitored.
Weight and muscle mass should be monitored regularly.

Things to Consider When Choosing Wet Food

Not all wet foods are created equal. There are numerous products on the market, and pet owners often choose simply based on what their cat likes. However, for long-term health, the ingredients are far more important.

Here are the key points to consider when choosing a good wet food:

The phrase "complete and balanced" must be included.
The protein source must be clearly stated.
It should not contain sugar or unnecessary fillers.
It should be suitable for the cat's age and specific condition.

Wet foods labeled as "supplementary" are not suitable for long-term feeding on their own. These products should be used occasionally as a reward or supplement.

Consistency is also important when choosing wet food. Some cats:

pieces of meat
With sauce
Pureed consistency

They may tolerate the products differently. Stool quality and digestive status can be helpful in this regard.

The Relationship Between Water Consumption and Wet Food in Cats

Cats are genetically predisposed to low water intake. This is especially true for cats fed dry food. Wet food offers a significant advantage in this regard because it contains a high percentage of water.

Cats that eat wet food:

The baby gets part of its total daily fluid needs from formula.
This provides support in terms of urinary tract health.

However, this doesn't mean the water bowl can be neglected. Cats that eat wet food should also always have access to fresh, clean water .

Some pet owners consider it normal for their cat not to drink any water because they are given wet food. This is not the correct approach. Water consumption must be monitored, and the frequency of urination in particular should be tracked.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wet Food

My cat constantly asks for wet food, is this normal?

A cat consistently wanting wet food isn't inherently abnormal. Wet food is much more appealing than dry food in terms of smell, taste, and moisture content. Therefore, many cats prefer wet food. However, if this desire becomes persistent and the cat completely rejects dry food, it may have become a habit or behavioral pattern rather than just a preference. Additionally, mouth pain, dental problems, or stomach upset can increase the tendency to eat wet food. Therefore, the duration and intensity of this behavior must be carefully evaluated.

How many packets of wet food can my cat eat per day?

The daily amount of wet food depends on the cat's weight, age, and whether it consumes other foods. A healthy adult cat weighing an average of 4–5 kg will generally need 2 to 3 packages of wet food per day if fed exclusively wet food. If the cat also consumes dry food, the amount of wet food should generally be limited to 1 package . It is important to remember that wet food is a part of the daily diet, not a treat added on top of dry food.

What happens if my cat eats too much wet food?

Excessive consumption of wet food often leads to problems in the long term, not the short term. Uncontrolled wet food consumption can cause weight gain, obesity, and consequently, an increased risk of diabetes. Furthermore, cats fed wet food consistently develop picky eaters and may completely reject dry food. Cats with sensitive digestive systems may experience soft stools or diarrhea. Therefore, the amount of wet food should always be carefully controlled.

My cat doesn't eat dry food, only wet food. Is this a problem?

If a cat that previously ate dry food suddenly stops eating it entirely, it's always something to consider. Sometimes this might simply be due to dietary habits, but other times it could be a sign of toothache, gum problems, or a general illness. If your cat completely refuses dry food for 24-36 hours and only wants wet food, this should not be ignored.

Will feeding my cat wet food every day harm her?

Feeding wet food every day isn't inherently harmful. The important thing is quantity and balance . Wet food given in accordance with daily calorie needs doesn't cause problems in healthy cats. However, giving unlimited wet food or completely eliminating dry food can lead to long-term health problems. Wet food should be given in a planned and measured manner.

Can cats fed only wet food be healthy?

Cats fed exclusively wet food can be healthy, but the food given must be complete and balanced . Long-term feeding with supplements is not advisable. Furthermore, dental health should be monitored more closely in cats fed exclusively wet food. Weight control and stool patterns should be observed regularly.

Can wet food cause dental problems in cats?

Wet food doesn't directly cause tooth decay, but it can make it easier for plaque to accumulate on the tooth surface. Cats fed exclusively wet food are more likely to experience tartar and gum problems. Therefore, oral and dental health should be checked regularly, and dry food should not be completely eliminated from their diet if possible.

Can wet food cause diarrhea?

Sudden changes in diet or excessive consumption of wet food can cause soft stools or diarrhea in some cats. This is usually related to the type and amount of food, or the cat's digestive sensitivity. In such a case, the amount of wet food should be reduced and the cat's overall condition monitored.

My cat has gotten used to wet food; is it impossible for her to ever switch to dry food?

It's possible for a cat accustomed to wet food to return to dry food, but this process takes time. Instead of abrupt transitions, the amount of wet food should be gradually reduced, and dry food should remain consistently available. With a patient and consistent approach, many cats can re-accept dry food within a few weeks.

Source

American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Feline nutrition, feeding practices and obesity management
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) – Global Nutrition Guidelines
European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) – Nutritional guidelines for complete and complementary pet food
International Cat Care (formerly ISFM) – Cat feeding behavior, wet vs dry food guidance
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Feline nutrition and feeding behavior resources
Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Open on Map: https://share.google/XPP6L1V6c1EnGP3Oc