Soaking dry kibble is a common practice among various pet owners and is often recommended by vets for different reasons. Many first-time pet parents are surprised when they know that soaking dry cat food is often helpful for your feline friends.
7 Benefits of Soaking Dry Cat Food
Helps in the Weaning Phase
When kittens transition from their mother’s milk to solid food, soaked kibble can ease this shift. The softer texture resembles the semi-solid food they are first introduced to post-weaning. It’s gentler on their delicate digestive systems (https://cats.com/cat-digestive-system) and can make the acceptance of new foods easier, as it doesn’t require the same level of chewing as dry kibble. This can prevent the kitten from becoming overwhelmed and refusing food during this critical developmental stage.
Soft Food Helps in Teething
Just like human babies, kittens experience discomfort as their teeth grow in. Soaked kibble is softer and easier on a teething kitten’s sore gums. It can reduce the pain associated with the teething process, making eating less stressful and helping to ensure they continue to receive the nutrition they need without associating eating with discomfort.
Aids Quick Digestion
Soaked kibble is partially broken down already, making it easier for a cat’s digestive system to process. The added moisture helps to pre-soften the kibble, which can aid in faster digestion since the cat’s stomach won’t have to work as hard to break down the hard, dry pieces. This can be especially beneficial for cats with digestive issues.
Avoids Bloating
Eating dry kibble quickly can cause some cats to ingest air, leading to bloating. Soaking the food beforehand can help prevent this, as cats are more likely to eat the softened food at a slower pace and chew it better, reducing the amount of air swallowed. Additionally, the increased water content in the food helps to keep the digestive contents moving smoothly, reducing gas buildup.
Keeps Cats Hydrated
Cats are notorious for not drinking enough water, which can lead to dehydration and urinary tract issues. By soaking kibble, you’re incorporating more water into their diet, which can help maintain proper hydration. This added moisture is particularly beneficial for cats with a history of urinary tract disorders or those who live in hot, dry climates.
Makes Food Appetizing for Picky Eaters
Some cats may find dry kibble unappealing or may become bored with their regular food. Soaking kibble can enhance its smell and taste, making it more attractive to picky eaters. The change in texture can also provide a novel eating experience, which might intrigue a cat enough to eat who might otherwise be disinterested in their meal.
Helps during Transition
If you need to switch your cat’s diet — for instance, from one brand to another or from wet to dry food — soaking the new kibble can help ease the transition. The softer texture can be less of a shock to your cat’s palate and digestive system, making the adjustment period smoother. It can help mask the change in flavor and make the new food seem more similar to the old, reducing resistance to the switch.
Why Soak Dry Food when Wet Food is Easily Available?
Soaking dry food might be preferred over purchasing wet food for cost-effectiveness, as dry kibble typically offers more servings per package and has a longer shelf life. Additionally, some pet owners might soak dry food to cater to a pet’s specific preferences or dietary needs that are met by their particular brand of kibble, which may not be available in wet form.
How to Soak Dry Food?
- Measure the Kibble: Start by measuring the appropriate amount of dry food based on your pet’s size and dietary needs.
- Add Water: Pour enough warm water over the kibble to fully submerge it. The warmth of the water can also enhance the food’s aroma, making it more appealing.
- Wait for Soaking: Let the kibble sit in the water for 10 to 30 minutes, or until it reaches the desired softness. Thicker kibble may require more soaking time.
- Stir Occasionally: Stir the mixture a few times to ensure that all pieces are evenly soaked and the water is absorbed.
- Serve: After the kibble has softened, drain any excess water if necessary and serve it to your pet.
- Refrigerate Any Leftovers: If there are any leftovers, they should be refrigerated and used within a day to prevent spoilage.
Is there any Downside to Adding Water to Dry Cat Food?
Adding water to dry cat food can lead to spoilage if the food is left out for too long, as moisture promotes the growth of bacteria and mold. It also might not be suitable for all cats, especially those with certain dental conditions where chewing dry kibble is necessary to help maintain dental health. Additionally, some cats may simply prefer the texture of dry food and reject it once it’s moistened.
Should I add warm or cold water to Dry Cat Food?
Adding warm water to dry cat food is often recommended because it can enhance the food’s smell and taste, making it more appealing to your cat. Warm water also soaks into the kibble more quickly and easily, making the softening process faster.
Can I mix Wet and Dry Cat Food?
Yes, you can mix wet and dry cat food, which can provide a balance of the hydrating benefits of wet food and the dental benefits of dry kibble. However, it’s essential to ensure that the combined portions don’t exceed your cat’s recommended daily caloric intake and that the foods are compatible in terms of ingredients and nutritional balance.