Canned cat food is food that comes sealed in a can for pets. It sits when the can is open and left unused for a period of time. Many owners wonder how long is too long for canned cat food to sit before it needs throwing away.
“How Long Can Canned Cat Food Sit Out?” This is a common question pet owners have when feeding their cats. Leaving food out for long periods can increase risks to a cat’s health that owners want to avoid.
While canned cat food may look and smell the same after sitting for a while, certain bacteria can begin to grow during that time. Most experts suggest tossing canned cat food that has been left unrefrigerated for over two hours, as certain bacteria that do not affect humans can make cats ill. It is always best to store leftover food properly rather than risking a cat’s health.
What Factors Affect How Long Canned Cat Food Stays Safe?
Many things can impact the shelf life of canned cat food. The type of food, storage temperature, and conditions all play a role in determining when it’s best by date arrives. Keeping cat food in an area away from direct sunlight and heat can extend its usability. Checking it regularly for changes in look, smell, and signs of mold growth also helps ensure it remains consumable for as long as possible.
Proper handling and care provides the best way to maximize the amount of time before canned food spoils. The manufacturing and sealing process aims to lock in flavors and nutrition.
But external influences like temperature take effect once the can has been opened. Paying close attention to storage practices is important for avoiding canned food that may no longer be safe to serve. What happens if my kitten eats my older cat’s food
Type Of Cat Food
Wet and dry foods have different shelf life expectancies depending on their formulation and ingredients. In general, wet foods will expire more quickly than dry kibble once opened due to their higher moisture content. Canned meat tends to stay fresh for about 4-5 days after opening while formulas containing gravy or sauce usually last 3-4 days.
Semi-moist patés and pâté style foods fall in the middle, usually remaining okay for around 5-7 days in the fridge. Their paste-like texture helps prevent rapid breakdown. Dry kibble packed in bags can stay consumable for several weeks after opening if kept airtight and away from heat sources. Following any printed dates on containers provides the most accurate guidelines.
Temperature Of Storage
subjecting opened cat food to extreme temperatures impacts shelf life greatly. Heat speeds up chemical changes and bacterial growth rendering food unsafe over just hours. Optimal temperatures for leftovers range between 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit.
The fridge provides the ideal place for short term storage. Its chilled interior slowing bacterial multiplication allowing canned food to maintain freshness for an extra day or two versus room temperature conditions. Extended periods above 40 degrees like in direct sun, near appliances or summer kitchens mean it’s best to use or toss canned leftovers quickly.
Odor And Appearance Of Cat Food
As canned food ages past its prime, physical signs appear alerting it’s nearing the end of usability. An off smell replacing the original aroma serves as a red flag. Discoloration like browning or the development of clumps in the gravy topping also occur as it breaks down.
Mold growth signals it has definitely gone bad and should be discarded immediately. Some mold may not yet be visible to the eye but internal changes could still pose health risks to pets. Regular visual inspections safeguard against accidental consumption of spoiled items that may make cats ill. Trust the senses of smell and sight during routine canned food quality checks.
Bacteria Growth In Cat Food
Bacteria proliferates at much faster rates in perishable products versus dry kibble. Moisture allows microbes to multiply exponentially if given optimal conditions. The high protein and fat content in wet food further promotes microbial activity as it sits at room temperature after opening.
At first the number of bacteria is low enough not to cause harm. But as colonies double in size hourly, levels rise to a point of hazard. Depending on the ambient environment, this critical threshold can be achieved in just 1-3 days resulting in a spoiled product unable to be safely served. Prompt refrigeration prevents the establishment of bacterial populations able to produce toxins and illness.
When Does Canned Cat Food Go Bad?
As a general guideline, refrigerated unused portions of wet cat food will usually remain unexpired for 3-5 days after opening the original can. The length of usability depends on the specific food type and recipe ingredients along with temperature control.
Signs that the safe consumption period has ended include noticeably foul scents or smells significantly changed from the initial aroma. Physical indications incorporate odd colors developing and abnormal textures forming like clumping or separation. Use caution not to serve anything appearing off or questionable in quality and odor. Discard promptly when in doubt to avoid potential digestive upsets for feline friends.
The 2-Hour Rule For Cat Food
A helpful concept for predicting wet food safety times is the “two-hour rule.” This refers to allowing no more than two hours for any leftovers to sit out at room temperature before proper storage or disposal. The growing bacteria population during initial exposure greatly expedites the rate of decline afterwards if long term spoiled conditions aren’t immediately addressed.
Always promptly cover and refrigerate within the two hour window to buy valuable extra safe usage days versus countertop conditions. Transfer directly from feeding bowl to a well-sealed container and make note of the date for tracking freshness accurately. Quick action helps slow deterioration compared to risks from prolonged exposure delaying cleanup by hours.
Refrigerating Leftover Cat Food
Chilled environments provide the optimal location for short term wet cat food preservation once the package has been opened. Refrigeration retards microbial activity helping extend the window before expiration occurs. Ideal internal fridge temperatures range from 35-40°F degrees although slightly above or below doesn’t immediately render food unsafe.
As long as cold storage prevents outside surfaces from entering the danger zone above 40°F for over two hours total, multiple days will generally remain before seeing signs of spoilage. Label containers with the date and plan usage based on the typical 3-5 day freshness period to avoid the chance of furry friends consuming anything questionable in quality or smell.
Signs It’s Time To Toss The Cat Food
Taking cues from the sense of both smell and sight prevents accidently serving compromised food items. Aside from observing the printed “best by” or expiration date provided by manufacturers, regularly check for signs deterioration as a final confirmation:
- Foul, ammonia-like, or significantly changed aroma not resembling the original product.
- Discoloration like browning or graying of color versus the typical appearance.
- Mold growth development, even if just underneath the surface not yet visible.
- Strange textures forming such as liquid separation or clumping solids.
- Obvious “off” smells or appearance shifts warrant prompt disposal versus risking a pet’s digestive health.
Always err on the conservative side by not pushing questionable canned leftovers to their absolute limit. Regular rotation of older items ensures felines consume only of the highest quality and safety. Proper handling is vital to maximizing the usability period before signs of spoilage manifest.
Storing Unused Canned Cat Food
It’s best to keep extra canned food in the refrigerator once the package is opened. This slows the growth of bacteria that cause spoiled food. Leave a little air space at the top of the container when sealing. Write the date on the lid in marker. Use older cans first before they expire. Check regularly for expired food and throw it away.
How Do Bacteria Affect Cats Who Eat Old Cat Food?
Bacteria from old cat food can make cats sick. Their stomachs can’t handle spoiled bacteria well. Eating old food allows bacteria to enter the digestive tract. There they multiply rapidly which can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Dehydration may occur from illness preventing nutrients absorbed. See a vet if signs don’t improve after a day of rest and fresh canned food instead.
Common Bacteria In Old Cat Food
Some harmful bacteria in spoiled wet food includes salmonella and E. coli. Salmonella infections have flu-like symptoms. E. coli causes severe abdominal cramps and diarrhea that’s sometimes bloody. Other types like staphylococcus produce toxins that are poisonous. Proper handling and disposing of old food helps control these microbes’ growth.
Symptoms Of Bacteria From Old Cat Food
Cats exhibiting symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or lethargy after eating old food likely have an infection. Their digestive system tries removing the invading bacteria which causes the signs. Dehydration is common too when fluid loss exceeds intake. Prompt vet care helps identify the specific bacteria and administers treatment.
Seeking Treatment For Sick Cats
When a cat shows signs of illness after eating spoiled food, see the vet right away. They do exams, take samples and perform lab tests to diagnose the issue. Fluids through IV might be needed to rehydrate weakened kitties. Antibiotics fight the bacterial infection causing the trouble. Keep them resting comfortably at home until fully recovered with solid appetite and normal stools.
Preventing Cat Food Bacteria Illnesses
Following proper food freshness handling tips guards against bacterial illness risks. Don’t leave wet food out for more than two hours. Always refrigerate leftovers sealing in a clean container labeled with the date. Discard anything after five days in the fridge or sooner if showing any spoilage signs. Spaying/neutering aids avoiding Stress-related conditions compromised pets face as well.
Why Is Refrigeration Important For Leftover Cat Food?
The cold temps of refrigeration slow bacteria growth in wet cat food significantly. Most harmful microbes multiply rapidly at room temperatures between 40-140°F degrees. The fridge maintains around 40°F degrees which inhibits doubling times. This prolongs the window of food safety from a few days on counter to five or more in the chilled storage.
Bacteria Thrive At Room Temperature
Moisture and warm conditions around human living spaces present perfect conditions for bacteria colonies explosive multiplication rates. Small numbers present in freshly opened cans multiply every 20 minutes in ideal temperature zones. Left on counters unattended for just hours, levels surge dangerously high posing health hazards to pets. Right away refrigerating leftovers guards against this.
The Dangers Of Leaving Cat Food Out Overnight
Never leave cat bowls with wet food remnants out all night. Bacteria has all the warm conditions it needs in the dark to grow exponentially throughout the cold evening hours without disruption. By morning its numbers could reach toxic proportion presenting serious poisoning risks if consumed. Always clean and put away bowls when finished feeding.
Recommendations From Veterinarians
Veterinary professionals advise never allowing wet cat food to sit out unrefrigerated for over two hours total in a 24 hour period. Clean bowls immediately after use before refrigerating or discarding any leftovers. Don’t exceed recommended five day maximum for storage and monitor it closely for freshness signs. Promptly toss at the first smell or appearance of issues without question for animal safety.
Tips For Maximizing Cat Food Freshness
Follow guidelines to lengthen its safe usage span before discarding. Keep partially filled cans or leftover amounts in airtight packaging labeled with the date in the back of the fridge. Check daily for indicators and rotate stock so older items get used first before expiration. Never let extra quantities sit neglected for extended times at room temperature posing bacterial bloom hazards to feline friends. Manage storage properly!
Frequently Asked Question
How Long Can Canned Cat Food Sit Out?
It’s best not to leave canned cat food out for more than two hours. Bacteria multiply quickly at room temperature which can make cats sick.
What Are Signs Of Spoiled Cat Food?
Look for discoloration, strange textures, clumping, or an odd smell that’s different from when the food was first opened. These could indicate harmful bacteria have grown.
How Do I Know When To Throw Away Leftover Cat Food?
Check cans in the fridge daily and discard any showing signs of spoilage. As a guideline, most vets recommend tossing leftovers after 5 days of refrigerated storage.
Is It Okay To Refrigerate Wet Cat Food?
Yes, refrigerating wet cat food properly in an airtight container is the best way to prolong its freshness for 3-5 days after opening. The cold slows bacteria multiplication. Always label food with the date.
Should I Cover The Food Bowl When Not In Use?
It’s a good idea. Removing the bowl when cats are done eating prevents bacteria from thriving at room temperature in leftover food bits overnight or all day while nobody’s home.
Conclusion
Bacteria growth is the main concern with leaving canned cat food sitting out for too long. These microbes multiply rapidly at room temperatures between human living spaces. In just a few short hours, harmful bacterial numbers can surge to dangerous levels posing serious health risks if consumed. To protect furry friends, it is best to not let wet cat food remain unrefrigerated for over two hours total in a day.
Following proper handling and storage tips helps maximize the freshness and safety of canned cat foods. Refrigerating leftovers in airtight containers, observing the five day limit, checking food daily for signs of spoilage, and removing used bowls are simple practices that guard against bacterial illnesses. With a bit of responsible management, the risk of pets getting sick from eating old food can easily be avoided.
