How Long Can Cat Food Sit in the Bowl? Should Leftovers Be Discarded?

Generally, cat food should not sit in a cat's bowl for more than a day. After this time, it loses its freshness and could begin to spoil, making it unsafe for your cat to eat. To prevent waste, it is best to add only a reasonable amount of food at a time. Overfeeding can lead to health issues, so moderation is key.

Cat food left in a bowl for over 24 hours is considered expired. It's important to promptly replace cat food in the bowl, as exposure to air encourages bacterial growth and spoilage. If you can't guarantee your cat will have access to fresh food when it wants it, it's best to place their daily portion in the bowl. This way, you can manage daily intake and help prevent obesity in cats. Consistent, controlled feeding portions can help maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle for your feline friend.

How Long Can You Store Cat Food?

If asked about cat food shelf life, many might instinctively check the expiration date on the bag, often listed as 18 to 24 months. This is a long time, but this applies only to unopened, sealed bags. Once the bag is opened, the cat food is exposed to air, and the oxygen and moisture in the air will begin to degrade the cat food. Oxygen starts to oxidize fats, while water vapor provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. Therefore, once opened, cat food's shelf life is not as long as printed on the bag. Proper storage after opening is crucial to maintaining the quality and safety of the cat food, ensuring your cat always gets the best meal. Always choose to feed your cat fresh food, and discard food that's been in their bowl for more than 24 hours. Consider using airtight containers to store opened bags of cat food to slow down the spoilage process.Trusted by:Pet Naming