Wet cat food comes with some pretty great perks for your feline friend’s health. Because it’s packed with moisture—usually around 70-80%—it helps keep cats well hydrated, which is super important since many cats don’t drink enough water on their own. This extra hydration supports urinary tract and kidney health by helping dilute urine and reduce the risk of crystals or stones forming. Plus, wet food tends to be more flavorful and aromatic, making it a favorite for picky eaters or cats who have trouble chewing dry kibble due to dental issues.
Picking the right wet cat food can feel overwhelming, so we’ve done the homework for you. Our top picks are based on expert advice from vets and pet nutritionists, plus real customer reviews. All these options use high-quality ingredients and offer balanced nutrition to keep your cat healthy. Whether you need something tailored for kittens, seniors, or cats with food sensitivities, there are plenty of great choices that fit those specific needs.
Our Top Wet Cat Foods (2025 Picks)
Tiki Cat Wet Cat Food
Tiki Cat offers a broad selection of grain-free wet cat food recipes, all highly praised for their high-quality animal protein content and minimal use of fillers. The brand’s philosophy centers on mimicking a cat’s natural diet by featuring real shredded meats and seafood served in flavorful broths, which provide both nutrition and hydration.
The Tiki Cat Puka Puka Luau Succulent Chicken recipe was chosen for a detailed review. This formula derives most of its protein from real chicken breast, a rich source of the 11 essential amino acids that cats need for optimal health and survival. Nutritional analysis reveals this recipe contains approximately 12-15% protein, 5-7% fat, and less than 1% carbohydrates on an as-fed basis, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40-45%. This macronutrient profile aligns well with the dietary requirements of obligate carnivores like cats.
Founded in 2005, Tiki Cat’s commitment to quality is reflected in their ingredient sourcing practices, including ethically harvested seafood from Thai waters, supported by certifications promoting marine conservation.
Manufactured in human-grade facilities that meet international food safety standards, Tiki Cat ensures freshness and nutrient retention in every can. Their recipes are thoughtfully designed to support lean muscle development, urinary tract health, and overall feline vitality by providing high-protein, low-carbohydrate nutrition tailored to cats’ natural dietary needs.
What we like about Tiki Cat Wet Cat Food
Tiki Cat wet food is packed with real meat and seafood, just like a cat’s natural diet. It’s grain-free, high in protein, and super hydrating thanks to the tasty broths. Cats love the shredded textures, and it’s great for picky eaters. Plus, it doesn’t have any fillers or artificial stuff, so it’s healthy and balanced. Tiki Cat focuses on quality ingredients and sustainability, making it a solid choice for keeping your kitty happy and healthy.
| Main Ingredients | chicken breast, chicken liver, seafood (tuna, salmon, prawns, lobster), chicken broth, sunflower seed oil, and vegetables like peas or green beans |
| Texture | wet |
| Type | Grain-free |
| Protein Percentage | 12% to 15% |
| AAFCO Standards | all life stages |
| Best For | kittens, adults and seniors cats |
Sample buyer review:
“My cat loves this food! She always finishes her bowl and her coat looks shinier sincewe switched.
Weruva Wet Cat Food
Weruva offers a wide variety of grain-free wet cat food recipes, all highly regarded for their use of high-quality, human-grade proteins and minimal fillers. The brand’s philosophy focuses on providing wholesome, natural meals that combine real chunks of meat or fish with savory gravies or broths, delivering both excellent nutrition and hydration.
The Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken recipe was selected for detailed review. This formula sources the majority of its protein from real chicken, a rich source of the 11 essential amino acids cats require for optimal health and survival. Nutritional analysis shows this recipe contains approximately 10-12% protein, 4-6% fat, and less than 1% carbohydrates on an as-fed basis, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40-50%. This balanced macronutrient profile supports the dietary needs of obligate carnivores like cats.
Founded in 2008, Weruva’s dedication to quality is evident in its ingredient sourcing, which emphasizes human-grade meats and sustainable seafood. The company uses responsibly sourced ingredients and avoids artificial additives, colors, and preservatives.
Manufactured in human-grade facilities that comply with international food safety standards, Weruva ensures freshness and nutrient preservation in every can. Their recipes are designed to support lean muscle maintenance, urinary tract health, and overall feline wellness by providing high-protein, low-carbohydrate nutrition tailored to cats’ natural dietary requirements.
Things we like
- Human-grade, high-quality proteins
- No artificial additives or fillers
- Wide variety of flavors
| Main Ingredients | boneless, skinless chicken breast, tuna, duck, tilapia, and seafood |
| Texture | wet |
| Type | Grain-free |
| Protein Percentage | 10% to 15% |
| AAFCO Standards | all life stages |
| Best For | kittens, adults and seniors cats |
Sample buyer review:
“My senior cat has a sensitive stomach, and Weruva has been gentle and satisfyingfor her.
Wellness CORE Grain-Free Wet Cat Food
Wellness CORE offers a comprehensive range of grain-free wet cat food recipes, all highly regarded for their high-quality animal protein content and absence of fillers. The brand’s philosophy focuses on delivering nutrient-dense, biologically appropriate diets that closely mimic a cat’s natural prey, featuring real meat and organ proteins combined with wholesome superfoods to support overall feline health.
The Wellness CORE Grain-Free Turkey & Chicken Recipe was selected for detailed review. This formula derives the majority of its protein from real turkey and chicken, both rich sources of the essential amino acids cats require for optimal growth, muscle maintenance, and survival. Nutritional analysis shows this recipe contains approximately 12-14% protein, 6-8% fat, and less than 2% carbohydrates on an as-fed basis, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 45-50%. This macronutrient profile aligns well with the dietary needs of obligate carnivores like cats, providing balanced energy and supporting lean muscle development.
Founded in 1926, Wellness has a long-standing commitment to quality and innovation, reflected in their ingredient sourcing practices that emphasize responsibly raised meats and sustainably sourced ingredients. Their grain-free wet cat foods are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, ensuring clean nutrition for cats of all life stages.
Manufactured in human-grade facilities that comply with strict food safety standards, Wellness CORE ensures freshness and nutrient retention in every can. Their recipes are thoughtfully crafted to support urinary tract health, skin and coat vitality, and overall feline wellness by providing high-protein, low-carbohydrate nutrition tailored to cats’ natural dietary requirements.
Things we like
- High protein content
- No grains, artificial colors, or preservatives
- Includes cranberries for urinary health
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, turkey, chicken liver, chicken broth, cranberries |
| Texture | Pate |
| Type | Grain-free |
| Protein Percentage | 12% to 14% |
| AAFCO Standards | all life stages |
| Best For | kittens, adults and seniors cats |
Sample buyer review:
“Wellness CORE has improved my cat’s energy and coat. She loves the pât texture!
Fancy Feast Classic Pâté Wet Cat Food
Fancy Feast offers a diverse range of classic pâté-style wet cat food recipes, well-regarded for their smooth texture and palatability. The brand’s philosophy focuses on providing delicious, nutritionally balanced meals that cater to cats’ taste preferences while delivering essential nutrients to support overall health.
The Fancy Feast Classic Pâté Chicken Feast recipe was selected for detailed review. This formula derives its protein primarily from real chicken and poultry by-products, providing essential amino acids necessary for maintaining muscle mass and supporting feline health. Nutritional analysis indicates this recipe contains approximately 8-10% protein, 4-6% fat, and less than 2% carbohydrates on an as-fed basis, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 45-50%. While the protein content is moderate, this macronutrient profile aligns with the dietary needs of adult cats and supports energy maintenance and vitality.
Founded in 1982, Fancy Feast has established a reputation for offering a wide variety of flavors and textures designed to appeal to even the most discerning feline palates. Their recipes are formulated to meet AAFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition, ensuring cats receive the nutrients they need at every life stage.
Manufactured in facilities adhering to strict food safety regulations, Fancy Feast ensures consistent quality and freshness in every can. Their classic pâté recipes are thoughtfully crafted to support healthy digestion, coat condition, and overall wellness by providing balanced nutrition tailored to cats’ natural dietary requirements.
Things we like
- Affordable and easy to find
- Smooth pâté texture for easy eating
- Variety of flavors
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, liver, meat by-products, fish, broth |
| Texture | Pate |
| Type | Grain-inclusive |
| Protein Percentage | 8% to 10% |
| AAFCO Standards | Adult Maintenance |
| Best For | Adult cats, cats with dental issues |
Sample buyer review:
“My cats never get tired of Fancy Feast. It’s a great value and keeps themhappy.
Instinct Original Grain-Free Wet Cat Food
Instinct offers a robust selection of grain-free wet cat food recipes, widely recognized for their high animal protein content and commitment to natural, minimally processed ingredients. The brand’s philosophy centers on honoring a cat’s ancestral diet by featuring real meat and organ meats as the primary ingredients, complemented by nutrient-rich vegetables and fruits to provide complete and balanced nutrition.
The Instinct Original Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe was selected for detailed review. This formula derives the majority of its protein from real cage-free chicken, a rich source of the 11 essential amino acids that cats require for optimal health and muscle maintenance. Nutritional analysis reveals this recipe contains approximately 10-12% protein, 6-8% fat, and less than 3% carbohydrates on an as-fed basis, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55-65%. This macronutrient profile is well-suited to the dietary needs of obligate carnivores, supporting lean muscle development and sustained energy.
Founded in 2002, Instinct is dedicated to quality and transparency, sourcing responsibly raised meats and wholesome produce. Their recipes are free from grains, artificial colors, and preservatives, ensuring a clean and natural diet for cats of all life stages.
Manufactured in company-owned facilities in the United States that adhere to strict food safety and quality standards, Instinct ensures optimal freshness and nutrient retention in every can. Their wet food recipes are thoughtfully crafted to promote digestive health, healthy skin and coat, and overall feline vitality by providing high-protein, low-carbohydrate nutrition tailored to the natural dietary needs of cats.
Things we like
- High animal protein content
- No artificial ingredients
- Supports healthy skin and coat
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, turkey, Chicken liver, chicken broth, peas |
| Texture | Pate |
| Type | Grain-inclusive |
| Protein Percentage | 10% to 12% |
| AAFCO Standards | All Life Stage |
| Best For | Kittens, adults, and seniors cats needing high protine |
Sample buyer review:
“Instinct is the only food my cat will eat consistently. Her health has improved sincewe switched.
Smalls Wet Cat Food
Smalls offers a carefully curated range of fresh, grain-free wet cat food recipes, all highly praised for their use of human-grade ingredients and high-quality animal protein content with minimal fillers. The brand’s philosophy centers on providing freshly cooked, nutrient-rich meals that closely replicate a cat’s natural diet, using whole meats and wholesome ingredients to deliver optimal nutrition and hydration.
The Smalls Ground Bird Recipe was selected for detailed review. This formula derives the majority of its protein from real chicken, a natural source rich in the 11 essential amino acids cats require for maintaining strong muscles and overall health. Nutritional analysis reveals this recipe contains approximately 12-14% protein, 6-8% fat, and less than 1% carbohydrates on an as-fed basis, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50-60%. This macronutrient profile aligns well with the dietary needs of obligate carnivores, supporting lean muscle development and sustained energy.
Founded in 2017, Smalls is committed to quality and transparency, preparing its meals in human-grade commercial kitchens near Chicago. Their recipes are free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and grains, ensuring clean, wholesome nutrition for cats of all life stages.
Manufactured fresh and then flash-frozen to lock in nutrients and freshness, Smalls ensures every meal retains its natural flavor and nutritional value. Their recipes are thoughtfully designed to support strong bones, urinary tract health, and overall feline vitality by providing high-protein, low-carbohydrate nutrition tailored to cats’ natural dietary requirements.
Things we Like
- High-Quality Ingredients
- Transparency
- Balanced Nutrition
- Variety of Options
- Support for Health
| Main Ingredients | Chicken, turkey, Chicken liver, chicken broth, peas |
| Texture | Wet |
| Type | Fresh |
| Protein Percentage | 12% to 14% |
| AAFCO Standards | All Life Stage |
| Best For | Kittens, adults, and seniors cats |
Why Wet Cat Food Rocks
Keeps Your Cat Hydrated
Cats aren’t always great at drinking water, but wet food is packed with moisture—usually around 75–85%! This helps keep their kidneys happy and lowers the chance of urinary problems.
Packed with Protein, Low on Carbs
Wet food usually has more real meat and less filler than dry food, which is exactly what cats need to stay strong and healthy.
Helps with Weight Control
Because wet food has a lot of water, it’s less calorie-dense. That means your cat can feel full without overeating—perfect if you’re watching their weight.
Easy to Eat and Digest
Soft and tasty, wet food is easier on older cats’ teeth and great for kittens or cats with tummy troubles.
Cats Love the Taste
The smell and texture of wet food often make it way more appealing, especially if your cat is a picky eater.
How to Pick the Best Wet Cat Food
1. Look for Complete Nutrition
Make sure the label says it’s “complete and balanced” and meets AAFCO standards. That means it has all the nutrients your cat needs for their age and stage of life.
2. Check the Ingredients
Real meat or fish should be the first thing listed. Avoid foods with lots of fillers, by-products, or artificial stuff.
3. Think About Your Cat’s Preferences
Some cats like pâté, others prefer chunks or gravy. Also, if your cat has allergies, look for limited-ingredient or grain-free options.
4. Watch the Packaging
Wet food can spoil fast once opened. Single-serve cans or pouches are great to keep food fresh and avoid waste.
5. Choose Trusted Brands
Go with brands known for quality and transparency. It’s always a bonus if they work with vets and nutrition experts.
Pro Tips from the Experts
- Chat with Your Vet
If your cat has health issues like kidney problems or allergies, your vet can recommend the best wet food for them. - Switch Slowly
Don’t change foods overnight. Mix the new food in gradually over a week or so to avoid upset tummies. - Keep an Eye on Your Cat
Watch how your cat reacts to new food—check their appetite, poop, and energy levels to make sure it’s a good fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wet cat food better than dry cat food?
Wet cat food provides more moisture, which helps with hydration and urinary health. It’s often more palatable and easier to eat, but dry food can be more convenient and less expensive. Many owners choose to feed a mix of both.
How much wet food should I feed my cat?
Portion sizes depend on your cat’s age, weight, and activity level. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the can and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Can kittens eat wet cat food?
Yes, most wet cat foods labeled “for all life stages” or “kitten” are suitable for kittens. Wet food can be easier for kittens to eat and provides essential hydration.
What are the main benefits of feeding my cat wet food?
Wet cat food has a high moisture content (typically 70–85%), which helps keep cats hydrated and supports urinary tract health. It often contains more animal protein and fewer carbohydrates, closely mimicking a cat’s natural diet. Wet food is also highly palatable and easier to eat, making it ideal for picky eaters, kittens, seniors, or cats with dental issues.
Is wet cat food better than dry cat food?
There’s no single answer—both wet and dry cat foods can be nutritionally complete. Wet food is better for hydration and may be preferable for cats with certain health conditions, while dry food is more convenient and can be left out longer. Many owners choose a mix of both to balance benefits.
How much wet food should I feed my cat?
The amount depends on your cat’s age, weight, activity level, and the specific food’s calorie content. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the product label and consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Can kittens eat wet cat food?
Yes, most wet cat foods labeled “for all life stages” or “kitten” are suitable for kittens. Wet food is often easier for kittens to chew and digest and provides essential hydration.
How long can wet cat food be left out?
Wet cat food should not be left out at room temperature for more than 1–2 hours, as it can spoil quickly. Any uneaten food should be refrigerated and used within 24–48 hours.
Can wet food cause diarrhea in cats?
Some cats may experience digestive upset when switching foods or if they have sensitivities to certain ingredients. Gradually transition to new foods and consult your vet if diarrhea persists.
Is wet cat food more expensive than dry food?
Generally, wet cat food costs more per serving than dry food. However, the benefits for hydration and palatability may justify the expense, especially for cats with specific health needs.
Are there specific wet foods for cats with health issues?
Yes, many brands offer wet foods formulated for conditions like kidney disease, urinary tract health, or sensitive stomachs. Look for foods labeled for your cat’s needs and consult your veterinarian for recommendations.
Does wet cat food help with weight management?
Wet food can help with weight management because its high moisture content helps cats feel full with fewer calories. Some formulas are specifically designed for weight control—check the label or ask your vet for advice.
Should I feed my cat only wet food?
Feeding only wet food is safe if the diet is complete and balanced. Some owners prefer to combine wet and dry foods to provide variety and convenience. The best choice depends on your cat’s health, preferences, and your lifestyle
For more on feline nutrition, see our guides to [Best Dry Cat Food], [Best Kitten Food], and [Best Senior Cat Food].