PawfullyHonestHow Much Wet Food to Feed a Cat: Complete Feeding Guide
Key Takeaway
Most adult cats need 200-250 calories per day. A 10-pound cat typically requires 1 to 1.5 standard cans (5.5 oz) of wet food daily, or about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of dry food. This guide provides detailed feeding charts by weight, age, and activity level, compares wet vs dry food portions, explains how long wet cat food can safely sit out, and covers how to rehydrate dried cat food properly.
How much wet food to feed a cat is one of the most common questions cat owners ask, and getting the answer right matters more than most people realize. Overfeeding leads to obesity, which affects over 60% of indoor cats and dramatically increases the risk of diabetes, joint disease, and shortened lifespan. Underfeeding leaves cats malnourished and lethargic. The correct amount depends on your cat's weight, age, activity level, and the specific food's calorie density.
This guide gives you the exact numbers. Whether you feed wet food, dry food, or a combination of both, the feeding charts and portion guidelines below will help you calculate the right amount for your cat. We also cover important food safety questions like how long wet cat food can sit out, how to rehydrate dried cat food, and the best feeding schedules by life stage. For a complete overview of cat food brands and types, see our complete cat food guide.
How Much Wet Food to Feed a Cat by Weight
How much wet food to feed a cat depends primarily on body weight and the calorie content of the specific food. Most adult cats need between 20-33 calories per pound of body weight daily. A standard 5.5-ounce can of wet cat food contains approximately 150-200 calories, though this varies significantly by brand. Premium, high-protein formulas tend to be more calorie-dense than budget options.
The feeding chart below uses the standard guideline of 25 calories per pound for moderately active indoor cats. Adjust upward by 10-15% for very active cats and downward by 10-15% for sedentary or overweight cats. Pregnant and nursing cats may need up to twice the normal amount.
Cat Feeding Chart by Weight and Age
| Cat Weight (lbs) | Calories/Day | Wet Food (5.5 oz cans/day) | Dry Food (cups/day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 lbs | 125-150 | 0.75 - 1 can | 1/4 cup |
| 7 lbs | 175-200 | 1 - 1.25 cans | 1/3 cup |
| 10 lbs | 200-250 | 1 - 1.5 cans | 1/3 - 1/2 cup |
| 12 lbs | 240-300 | 1.25 - 1.75 cans | 1/2 cup |
| 15 lbs | 300-375 | 1.5 - 2 cans | 1/2 - 2/3 cup |
| 18 lbs | 360-450 | 2 - 2.5 cans | 2/3 - 3/4 cup |
| 20 lbs | 400-500 | 2 - 2.75 cans | 3/4 - 1 cup |
These are starting guidelines. Monitor your cat's body condition score over 2-4 weeks and adjust portions accordingly. You should be able to feel your cat's ribs without pressing hard, and your cat should have a visible waist when viewed from above.
How Much Dry Food Should a Cat Eat a Day
How much dry food should a cat eat a day is slightly more complex to calculate because dry food is significantly more calorie-dense than wet food. A single cup of dry cat food contains approximately 350-500 calories, compared to 150-200 calories in a standard 5.5 oz can of wet food. This calorie concentration means small measuring errors with dry food lead to much bigger caloric swings.
For a typical 10-pound adult cat eating dry food exclusively, you need approximately 1/3 to 1/2 cup per day, split into two meals. Always use an actual measuring cup rather than estimating, as studies show that cat owners who eyeball portions consistently overfeed by 20-40%.
| Food Type | Calories per Serving | Moisture Content | Protein (typical) | Carbs (typical) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wet Food (5.5 oz can) | 150-200 cal | 75-82% | 40-50% | 3-10% |
| Dry Food (1 cup) | 350-500 cal | 6-10% | 30-40% | 25-50% |
Mixed Feeding: Wet and Dry Together
Many cat owners prefer a mixed feeding approach, offering both wet and dry food daily. This provides the hydration benefits of wet food with the convenience and dental benefits of dry food. When mixing, reduce each portion proportionally. For example, a 10-pound cat might get half a can of wet food (about 100 calories) plus 1/4 cup of dry food (about 125 calories) to reach the daily target of roughly 225 calories.
The key is tracking total calories rather than individual portion sizes. If your cat consistently gains weight on a mixed diet, reduce the dry food portion first since it is more calorie-dense and contributes less moisture to the diet.
How Much Canned Food to Feed a Cat
How much canned food to feed a cat depends on the can size, which varies more than most owners realize. The standard "small" can is 3 ounces (about 80-100 calories), the "regular" can is 5.5 ounces (about 150-200 calories), and the "large" can is 12-13 ounces (about 350-450 calories). Always check the calorie count per can on the label, as it varies significantly between brands.
Canned Food Portions by Brand Size
- 3 oz cans (Fancy Feast, Sheba): A 10-pound cat needs approximately 2.5 to 3 small cans per day
- 5.5 oz cans (most premium brands): A 10-pound cat needs 1 to 1.5 cans per day
- 12-13 oz cans (Friskies, 9Lives): A 10-pound cat needs about half a large can per day
How much canned cat food per day also depends on whether you supplement with dry food. If you feed one 5.5 oz can of wet food per day, you may need to add a small amount (1/8 to 1/4 cup) of dry food to meet your cat's full caloric needs, depending on the calorie density of the wet food brand you choose.
How Long Can Wet Cat Food Sit Out
How long can wet cat food sit out before it becomes unsafe? The general rule is no more than 1-2 hours at room temperature. After that window, bacterial growth accelerates rapidly. At the 4-hour mark, wet cat food reaches bacterial levels that can cause gastrointestinal illness in cats. In hot weather (above 80°F or 27°C), reduce the safe window to just 1 hour.
This food safety concern is one of the most practical reasons to feed scheduled meals rather than leaving wet food out for grazing. If your cat does not finish a meal within 30 minutes, refrigerate the leftover portion and offer it again at the next meal time.
Storing Opened Wet Cat Food
- Refrigerator: Opened canned cat food stays fresh for 5-7 days when stored in an airtight container or covered with a reusable silicone lid
- Room temperature: 1-2 hours maximum (1 hour in warm environments)
- Warming refrigerated food: Add a tablespoon of warm water and mix, or microwave for 5-10 seconds. Many cats refuse cold food straight from the fridge
- Freezing: Wet cat food can be frozen in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving
How long can canned cat food sit out also applies to pouch-style wet food. Pouches follow the same 1-2 hour guideline at room temperature. Once opened, transfer unused pouch contents to a sealed container and refrigerate.
How to Rehydrate Dried Cat Food
How much water to rehydrate dried cat food is a common question, and the answer depends on the type of dried food. For standard kibble, add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of warm water per cup of dry food and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. For freeze-dried raw cat food, follow the manufacturer's instructions, which typically call for roughly equal parts water and food by volume.
Rehydrating dried cat food offers several benefits. It increases your cat's daily water intake (critical for cats prone to urinary or kidney issues), makes the food easier to chew (especially helpful for senior cats or cats with dental problems), and enhances the food's aroma, making it more appealing to picky eaters.
Benefits of Adding Water to Dry Cat Food
- Hydration boost: Cats evolved as desert animals and naturally have a low thirst drive. Adding water to food can double or triple their daily moisture intake
- Kidney support: Increased hydration reduces the concentration of minerals in urine, lowering the risk of crystal formation and kidney stress
- Easier digestion: Softened kibble is gentler on the digestive tract, reducing the likelihood of vomiting in cats who eat too fast
- Weight management: Water adds volume without calories, helping cats feel fuller on fewer calories
Use warm water (not hot) for the best results. Hot water can destroy heat-sensitive nutrients and may burn your cat's mouth. Senior cats with dental issues often benefit the most from rehydrated food. For more on senior cat nutrition, see our best senior cat food guide.
Cat Feeding Schedule by Life Stage
The best cat feeding schedule depends on your cat's age. Kittens, adults, and seniors have different metabolic rates, stomach capacities, and nutritional needs. A consistent feeding schedule also helps regulate your cat's digestion, reduces begging behavior, and makes it easier to monitor appetite changes that could signal health problems.
| Life Stage | Age | Meals per Day | Calories per Meal | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitten (weaning) | 4-12 weeks | 4 meals | 60-80 cal | Kitten-specific food only; high calorie needs for growth |
| Kitten (juvenile) | 3-6 months | 3 meals | 80-100 cal | Rapid growth phase; do not restrict calories |
| Junior | 6-12 months | 2-3 meals | 90-120 cal | Transition to adult food around 10-12 months |
| Adult | 1-7 years | 2 meals | 100-150 cal | Maintain consistent schedule; monitor weight monthly |
| Senior | 7-11 years | 2-3 meals | 80-120 cal | May need more frequent, smaller meals; increase protein quality |
| Geriatric | 11+ years | 3 meals | 70-100 cal | Highly digestible food; consult vet for specific needs |
Free Feeding vs Scheduled Meals
Free feeding (leaving food out all day) works only with dry food and only for cats who self-regulate their intake. Unfortunately, most indoor cats do not self-regulate well, and free feeding is the number one contributor to feline obesity. Scheduled meals allow you to control portions precisely, monitor appetite changes, and create a predictable routine that reduces stress and behavioral issues.
If your cat is a grazer who prefers small amounts throughout the day, consider using a timed automatic feeder that dispenses measured portions at set intervals. This gives your cat the grazing experience while preventing overeating. Changes in diet and feeding habits can also affect litter box behavior, so check our cat litter guide for troubleshooting tips. If you also own dogs, you can find similar nutritional guidance in our best dog food guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much wet food should I feed my cat per day?
Most adult cats need 200-250 calories per day. A 10-pound cat typically needs 1 to 1.5 standard cans (5.5 oz) of wet food daily. The exact amount depends on your cat's weight, age, activity level, and the specific food's calorie density. Always check the feeding guidelines on the can and adjust based on your cat's body condition.
Can I feed my cat only wet food?
Yes, you can feed your cat a wet-food-only diet. Many veterinarians actually prefer wet food because it provides significantly more moisture than dry food, supporting kidney health and urinary tract function. Just ensure the wet food is labeled "complete and balanced" to meet all of your cat's nutritional needs.
How long can wet cat food sit out before going bad?
Wet cat food should not sit out at room temperature for more than 1-2 hours. After 4 hours, bacterial growth reaches levels that can make your cat sick. In warm weather (above 80°F), discard uneaten wet food after just 1 hour. Store opened cans in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days.
Should I feed my cat wet or dry food?
Both wet and dry cat food can provide complete nutrition. Wet food offers higher moisture content (78% vs 10%), more protein per calorie, and better palatability. Dry food is more convenient, less expensive per serving, and may help with dental health. Many veterinarians recommend a combination of both for the best balance of nutrition, hydration, and convenience.
How often should I feed my cat?
Adult cats should be fed 2 meals per day, approximately 12 hours apart. Kittens under 6 months need 3-4 smaller meals daily. Senior cats (7+) may benefit from 2-3 smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion. Avoid free-feeding with wet food due to spoilage risk.