Does wet dog food go bad in the fridge

How to Tell If Wet Dog Food Is Bad: 7 Vet-Reviewed Signs

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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Dog owners must be vigilant with feeding their dogs wet food because wet dog food has a shorter shelf life than dry dog food and is more susceptible to going bad. Wet dog food can go bad even if you store it properly, and you can sometimes just receive a bad package.

One of the best ways to prevent feeding your dog spoiled food is to know what the wet food looks and smells like when its good. Because different wet dog foods contain varying ingredients, they may show different signs when they go bad. Here are some common things to consider and look for if you suspect that your dogs wet food is no longer safe to eat.

The 7 Signs the Wet Dog Food Is Bad

1. Sour Odor

One of the first things that will hit you is odor. A good can of dog food will have a savory and meaty smell and will be familiar to you if you have given the same food to your dog before. Meanwhile, a bad can of dog food that needs to be discarded will have a sour or rancid smell. If the can of wet dog food has a sulfur-like smell, like rotten eggs, its no longer good and must be tossed away as well. Dog food that has gone bad will also have a stronger and more pungent odor.

Even if the food smells absolutely normal, always make sure that you have checked the date on the can, and never give your dog expired wet food even if it doesnt have an odor. In general, wet dog food does not smell pleasant to people, so it can be tricky to just rely on smell. However, if you are not sure or think that the food smells at all strange or different than it did when you have previously given it, trust your nose, as its better to be safe than sorry. If something smells off about the food, dont hesitate to throw it away. Your poochs health is on the line!

2. Exposure to Heat or Humidity

Heat and humidity encourage more bacterial growth. In general, bacteria that cause food poisoning can grow at temperatures between 40 F and 140 F.¹ When it comes to meat and poultry in particular, its best to not leave the food out of the refrigerator for more than two hours (one hour in the summer months).

Because wet dog food has high levels of moisture, its even easier and faster for bacteria and mold to grow on it. So, if your dog doesnt eat their food right away or within a maximum of 1-2 hours, its crucial that you remove it from the bowl and store it appropriately in the fridge. The amount of bacteria can double within just 20 minutes at a favorable room temperature of 40 F or higher, which means it is best to store the leftover food immediately rather than to wait, especially in warm and humid summer months.²

Opened cans should be placed in the fridge at temperatures between 40-45 F and should be used within a maximum of five days. Any wet food remaining after this period should be thrown out without a doubt, even if it appears normal. If the food was left in the bowl for more than two hours, especially at higher room temperatures, putting it back in the refrigerator is not recommended as bacterial growth has likely already begun, and refrigerating it doesnt eliminate the risk of food poisoning. This food needs to be thrown away.

3. Left Out for Too Long

Leaving opened cans of wet dog food out of the fridge or in the dogs bowl longer than recommended is very unsafe. Exposure to oxygen causes some food to spoil. Spoilage bacteria cause changes in the appearance, odor or flavor of the product. Molds and most yeasts require oxygen for growth. So, its important to either store any non eaten wet dog food immediately or within the recommended time frame or else discard it. Wet dog food should never be left out for free feeding at the dogs will.

Another reason to never leave wet food out is because air carries many microbes that can contaminate the food. With the right conditions, air exposure can make dog food go bad.

4. Damage to Packaging

Since air carries various microbes and exposure to oxygen, alongside effects of ambient temperature and humidity, can cause food to go bad, its important to be careful with wet dog food that comes in damaged or dented packaging. Dented cans may look alright on the outside, but the damage can sometimes cause small breaks in the seal which could then introduce oxygen and bacteria into the food, as the air tight seal is compromised. If the can of dog food has a very small dent on the side but is otherwise in good shape and you dont see any signs of puncture, its usually considered safe by the USDA. However, if you can fit your finger inside the dent, this means that the dent is significant. A dent on the top or side seam can damage the seam and allow microbes to enter the can. Its best to be safe and avoid opening such a can. Also always make sure the cans arent bulging, as this might indicate bacterial spoilage.

5. Discoloration

Its helpful to pay attention to the color of your dogs food so that you can quickly notice any changes. It is best to avoid pet food that uses additional and unnecessary colors on ingredients, like vegetables, which are added only for marketing purposes. Color changes can be caused by the contamination of foods with metals such as copper or iron during recipe production.

Improper storage and exposure to heat or light as well as a reaction between the food and the container can also lead to food color changes. So, duller food could be an indicator that the food is not fresh. In some cases, discolorations can indicate food contamination with microbes and especially molds. Fading or darkening are common signs of spoilage. In addition to the color change, the discolored meat or poultry will have an unpleasant odor and be sticky or slimy.

Since there are several reasons for food discoloration, its always best to throw discolored dog food away. While theres a chance that the food is fine, especially if its expiration date hasnt passed, theres an even greater chance that theres something off about the food that can lead to sickness. Remember, when in doubt, it is always better to be safe than sorry!

6. Mold

Mold is a fungal growth present everywhere in the environment that can cause food spoilage. Mold forms spores that easily spread through the air and give the food those unusual color patterns, most often gray, black, white or green, with a fluffy, slimy, or dusty appearance. Mold growth is encouraged by warm and humid conditions, and moldy food often also contains bacteria.

Some molds produce harmful substances called mycotoxins that will cause serious illness in dogs and humans alike. Dry dog food is more at risk of containing mycotoxins, but they can be found in wet food as well. Not all mold is toxic, but its difficult to differentiate between toxic and non-toxic molds using only appearance. So, its better to toss the wet dog food out if it has any traces of mold.

Mold typically first appears on the top of the food or the layer thats most exposed to air and microorganisms. If you see mold, its not safe to simply scrape off the mold and feed the rest of the food to your dog. Instead, you have to discard the whole can immediately. Harmful microorganisms that are undetectable with the naked eye can still be in the rest of the food, along with their toxins, especially in cases of heavy mold growth that invades deeper parts of the can. These can cause food poisoning.

7. Your Dog Refuses to Eat It

Dogs have very sensitive noses that can detect scents that are untraceable to people. Theyre capable of smelling food rot before people do, and some may turn their noses away from food that has gone bad. If your dog is avoiding food that they usually eat without any issues, it can indicate that theres something wrong with the food.

However, there is no available research data at the moment that might explain which smells dogs naturally find more or less appealing and whether such odors would actually enhance palatability and food consumption or put dogs off their food if spoiled. Not all dogs are discerning, and more often than not, they will just eat the food that has gone bad. So, its better to be proactive and avoid offering your dog spoiled food than rely on your dogs senses.

How to Properly Store Wet Dog Food

The best way to preserve wet dog food is to transfer it to an air-tight container or use a silicone lid specifically designed for cans, a plastic lid, or plastic wrap that fits the top of the can. Even though its less likely for food to become moldy in a fridge, it can still happen if you dont throw out old food that has passed its expiration date. If you leave the dog food uncovered in its original can, spores from other moldy food and microbes from the air can easily get to the dog food. Lids will prevent moisture changes, bacterial and mold spore contamination from the surrounding air or other spoiled food, and transfer of odors.

Make sure to also put any unused dog food in the fridge right away to prevent the risk of having it sit out for too long. The refrigerator temperature should be between 40F to 45F. Its also important to be mindful of how long the food can last after being opened. Most wet dog food cant last more than five days once theyre opened.

Conclusion

There are several signs that wet dog food has gone bad and a few important factors to consider about storing the food adequately. You can look for changes in smell and colors, damage marks and denting to the seams and other parts of the can, and evidence of mold. You may also have just forgotten to store the contents of the opened can in the fridge appropriately. If you have any doubts about the safety of your dogs wet food, it is best to discard it, as the risks it could pose to your dogs health are too serious to be overlooked. Some dogs may avoid eating spoiled food, but do not rely on this, as more often, dogs are food-motivated and will not decline their wet food, even if its not safe. Its better to just feed your dog a new can or batch of wet dog food rather than risk feeding it spoiled food that can lead to serious health disorders and food poisoning. If you think your dog has eaten moldy or spoiled wet food, contact your vet straight away for advice.

Featured Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock

How Long Can Wet Dog Food Sit Out Until It Goes Bad? Vet Approved Facts & FAQ

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

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All pet food can only sit out for a limited amount of time before it starts to spoil. The time frame will vary depending on the type of food as well as the ambient conditions. All dog food can sit out for a while before it goes bad, but there are some guidelines that you should follow to make sure that your pup stays healthy. In general, it is safe to leave wet dog food in a bowl for up to 2 hours, but it depends on several factors.

You should avoid feeding your dog wet food that has been sitting out exposed to the air for longer than the recommended time, and if the food ever smells bad, changes color, or seems off in any way, then it should not be served to your pup.

What Is Wet Dog Food?

Wet dog food is a canned or pouched food that contains more moisture than dry kibble. It is marketed as a complete and balanced diet for dogs, as it includes both protein and carbohydrates, along with fat and added vitamins and minerals. Wet dog food is also a good source of water, which is important for keeping dogs hydrated. Wet dog food is often made with meat as the main ingredient and can also include other ingredients such as grains, fruits, and vegetables. Wet dog food is a good source of vitamins and other nutrients that are essential for dogs.

Can I Leave Wet Dog Food Out Overnight?

Generally speaking, wet dog food should never be left out overnight, as it can spoil and cause digestive issues in dogs. The high moisture content of wet dog food can create an environment hospitable to bacteria growth, leading to the food becoming rancid and potentially dangerous to consume, and may attract insects and other vermin.

Wet vs Dry

The two types of commercial dog food are wet and dry. Wet dog food has a high moisture content. This type of food is often given to puppies, sick or older dogs that may have trouble chewing dry food or need extra hydration, or very picky dogs in order to provide more flavor. Dry dog food is also made up of protein and carbohydrates and has a low moisture content. This type of food is often given to adult dogs.

Wet food is made up of mostly meat, organs, and other animal byproducts that have been ground down and processed. Dry food has similar nutrients that are dried and formed in the shape of various kibble, with up to 10% moisture. Some people believe that wet food is better for dogs because it contains more moisture and is closer to a dogs natural diet. Others believe that dry food is better because it is less messy and can help keep a dogs teeth clean.

The truth is that both types of food should contain all that your pooch needs, if they have been formulated responsibly and in accordance with AAFCO recommendations, and each on its own is a complete and balanced source of all the nutrients your pooch needs.

Speak to your vet before deciding which food to give your dog, as there are pros and cons of each food preparation, depending on their age, stage of growth and development, medical history, and any accompanying illness.

Can Wet Dog Food Sit Out Like Kibble?

Wet dog food should be treated very differently from dry kibble. The primary difference between the two is that dry kibble can be left out most of the day without any problem, while wet dog food cannot. When it comes to sitting out, wet and dry dog food are totally different. Generally, it is safe to leave wet dog food in a bowl for up to 2 hours and dry dog food out for up to 8 hours. If the weather is hot and humid, then wet food should be stored after as little as 1 hour, as bacterial numbers can double quickly under the right temperature and humidity conditions and cause the food to quickly become spoiled.

How Long Can Wet Dog Food Stay in the Fridge?

The shelf life of wet food can vary depending on the type of food, packaging, and storage conditions. Generally, wet food can last in the fridge for up to 5 days, depending on a particular food manufacturers recommendations. If the food is in a sealed container with a lid, it will last longer and produce less odor than if it is left open in the original packaging, as it can still get contaminated with the bacteria, mold, and dust from the fridge environment. It can contaminate your food as well and cause it to become moldy. It is important to keep the food at a temperature below 40 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent bacteria growth.

Why Does Wet Dog Food Spoil Faster Than Dry?

Wet dog food spoils faster than dry dog food because it has a much higher moisture content. The high moisture content means that there is more opportunity for bacteria, mold, or mildew to grow, which can cause spoilage and thus potential illness in dogs. Dry dog food, on the other hand, has a lower moisture content and is thus less likely to spoil. Additionally, some wet dog food is higher in fat and protein, which can also lead to spoilage. Still, keep in mind that bacteria, viruses, house dust mites, and bugs are everywhere, being transmitted by the inside and outside air circulation, and they can also contaminate the dry food that is sitting in your dogs bowl. Therefore, it may be better to store it if your pooch has left any. Bowls should be cleaned at least once daily.

What Should I Do With Uneaten Wet Dog Food?

The general consensus is that if wet dog food has been left out for more than 2 to 4 hours, it is best to discard it. The food is very likely contaminated with bacteria, which can cause illnesses in pets. If the food is not contaminated, it may still spoil and become dangerous for your dog to eat. And initially, you wont be able to tell the difference.

How Can I Keep Wet Dog Food Fresh and Safe for Longer?

There are a few things that you can do to help keep wet dog food fresh for as long as possible. First, make sure that you store the food in an airtight container in the fridge. Buy smaller cans so they do not sit open for days. The right size of can ideally be consumed by your pooch in a matter of 1 to 3 days. Additionally, be sure to wash your hands and your pets bowl thoroughly after feeding to avoid contamination.

Some people choose to freeze the food in individual portions so that they can defrost only as much as their dog will eat at one time. Bear in mind that freezing will alter the consistency, texture, and taste of the food. It tends to make food sloppier, and many food manufacturers recommend against doing this.

The can should be covered with a plastic pet food lid if you want to keep it airtight. The contents of the can could also be placed in a plastic container with an airtight lid. Last but not least, you can store the can in a zip-lock bag in the refrigerator. Zip-lock bags arent the best odor and oxygen barriers, so plastic containers or lids are preferred.

Canned Dog Food Storage

Providing the cans are still sealed, it is quite easy for you to store them in a dark, dry place below 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is too high or the room is too humid and ventilation is poor, such as in some cupboards or storage closets, the contents can begin to turn rancid. Alternatively, if you keep them stored at a temperature that is too low, the food could freeze and this will change the taste and texture of the food.

How Long Can Dry Dog Food Sit Out?

There is no definitive answer to how long dry dog food can sit out as it depends on a variety of factors, such as the type of food, the ambient humidity and temperature, and how much air the food is exposed to. If the food is exposed to high temperatures or humidity, it will spoil more quickly. Dry dog food can sit out for up to 8 hours before it may become unsafe to eat. The food may become contaminated with air pollutants, such as bacteria, spores, viruses, dust, pollen, or others, or may become moldy, which can cause gastrointestinal problems in dogs.

It is important to keep dry food in an airtight container so that it does not absorb moisture from the environment, which can also make it unsafe to eat. If you have added moisture to the kibble itself, then you must treat it like wet dog food and throw it in the trash after 2 hours.

Summary

In conclusion, wet dog food can sit out for up to 2 hours before it may go bad, or no longer than 1 hour in warm and humid weather. If you have any leftovers, put them in the fridge as soon as possible. Wet dog food can last up to 5 days in a fridge. If your dog is not going to eat the food within a 2-hour timeframe, it is best to refrigerate or simply discard it. Serving your best friend only fresh, safe food will help keep them healthy and happy. Thanks for reading!

Featured Image Credit: Emolaev Alexander, Shutterstock