Wet dog food typically has a shorter shelf life after its expiration date than dry dog food. Generally, it’s not recommended to feed your dog wet food that has passed its expiration date. This is because the risk of bacterial growth and nutrient degradation is higher in wet food. If the food is only slightly past its expiration date and has been stored properly, it might still be safe, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding expired wet dog food to your pet.
Risks of Feeding Expired Wet Food to Dogs
Bacterial Growth
Expired wet dog food is prone to bacterial contamination, including harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. These bacteria can cause gastrointestinal illness in dogs, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Nutrient Degradation
Over time, the nutritional content of wet dog food can degrade, especially after its expiration date. This means your dog might not get the essential vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy diet, potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies.
Chemical Changes
The fats in wet dog food can go rancid over time, especially after expiration. Rancid fats not only taste bad but can also produce harmful compounds that could lead to inflammation or other health issues in dogs.
Mold and Fungi
Expired wet food, especially if improperly stored, can develop mold and fungi. Ingesting moldy food can be toxic to dogs, causing a range of symptoms from digestive upset to more severe reactions depending on the type of mold.
Signs that Show Wet Food Has Gone Bad
- Off Odor: If wet dog food has a sour or unpleasant smell, it clearly indicates that it has gone bad. This change in odor is often due to bacterial growth or spoilage.
- Discoloration: Any unusual changes in color, such as darkening or fading, can signify spoilage. Discoloration often occurs alongside other spoilage processes like oxidation or mold growth.
- Mold Growth: Visible mold on the surface of wet dog food is a definite sign of spoilage. Mold can appear as fuzzy spots of various colors, including white, green, or black.
- Change in Texture: If the food has become overly slimy, excessively thick, or shows any other significant changes in texture, it’s likely spoiled. This can be due to bacterial activity or breakdown of the food’s components.
How to Store Wet Food Properly Once Opened?
- Refrigerate Promptly: Once opened, wet dog food should be refrigerated immediately. Exposure to room temperature can accelerate spoilage. Store it in a refrigerator set at or below 40°F (4°C) to slow bacterial growth.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover wet food into an airtight container. This helps to maintain its quality by preventing contamination and reducing exposure to air, which can lead to spoilage and drying out of the food.
- Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils when handling wet dog food to prevent cross-contamination. Do not use the same utensils for different food items unless they have been thoroughly cleaned.
- Consume Quickly: Ideally, use the opened wet dog food within 3-5 days. The longer it’s stored, even in the fridge, the higher the risk of spoilage and bacterial growth.
- Check Before Feeding: Always check for any signs of spoilage like off-odor, discoloration, or mold before feeding your dog. Discard the food if any of these signs are present.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can expired wet food kill my dog?
Expired wet dog food can potentially be harmful and, in rare cases, fatal if it contains toxic bacteria or mold. However, fatal outcomes are not common. The risk depends on the level of spoilage and the dog’s overall health and immune system.
How long does unopened wet food last?
Unopened wet dog food can last for about one to two years, depending on the brand and storage conditions. It’s important to store it in a cool, dry place and check the expiration date on the packaging for guidance.
Can I keep opened wet food in the freezer?
You can store opened wet dog food in the freezer to extend its shelf life. Freezing can keep the food safe for consumption for several months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving it to your dog.
What is the maximum temperature wet food can tolerate?
Wet dog food should not be stored at temperatures above 50°F (10°C) for prolonged periods. Higher temperatures can accelerate spoilage and bacterial growth, making the food unsafe for consumption.
How long can wet food stay out after being put in a dog bowl?
Wet dog food should not be left out in a dog bowl for more than 2 hours at room temperature. Beyond this time, the risk of bacterial growth increases, making the food potentially unsafe for your dog.