Wet Food for Picky Eaters: Tips and Tricks to Tempt Fussy Felines

If you’ve ever watched your cat turn up their nose at a carefully chosen meal, you know the struggle of feeding a finicky feline. Whether they sniff and walk away or take a single lick before giving you a disappointed stare, picky eaters can make mealtime a challenge. But don’t worry! With the right strategies, you can entice even the most particular kitty to enjoy their wet cat food. Let’s explore the best ways to tempt fussy felines while incorporating some of the best wet cat food options available.

Why Some Cats Are Picky About Wet Food

Cats can be finicky eaters for several reasons. Some are naturally selective, while others develop preferences based on texture, temperature, or even the bowl they eat from. Here are a few reasons why your cat might be avoiding their wet food:

• Texture Troubles: Some cats prefer pâté, while others enjoy shredded cat food or flaked cat food. If your cat turns their nose up at one type, try another.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Cold food straight from the fridge can be unappealing. Warming it slightly can make it more enticing.
• Flavor Preferences: Your cat may prefer extra gravy cat food over dry pâté. Try different options like Wellness^® Complete Health Gravies cat food or Wellness^® Complete Health Pâté Cat Food to see what they enjoy most.
• Health Issues: If your cat suddenly becomes finicky, it could indicate dental problems or an underlying medical issue. Consult your vet if you’re concerned.

How to Encourage Your Cat to Eat Wet Food

If your cat won’t eat wet food, don’t despair! Here are some tried-and-true methods to stimulate their appetite and encourage them to dig in:

1. Experiment with Different Textures

If your cat dislikes one type of wet food, try another. Some options include:

• Wellness^® CORE Tiny Tasters – Options in smooth, hydrating pâtés or flaked recipes in broth, perfect for picky cats.
• Wellness^® Appetizing Entrees – Available in different textures, including pâté, flaked, and shredded.
• Wellness^® Bowl Boosters – Use as a mixer, topper, or snack to be added to a complete and balanced food diet.
• Wellness^® Complete Health Sliced Cat Food & Morsels Cat Food – Great choices for cats who prefer chunkier meals.

Learn more about flaked and shredded wet foods here.

2. Use a Natural Appetite Stimulant

If your cat is exceptionally finicky, an appetite enhancer for cats might help. Some options include:

• Bone broth or tuna water – Drizzle a little over their food to enhance the aroma and taste.
• Mixing dry and wet food – Gradually adding wet food to their usual dry kibble can ease the transition.

3. Warm the Food Slightly

Warming canned cat food releases aromas that appeal to your cat’s senses. Microwave their food for a few seconds or add warm water to create an extra gravy cat food effect. Be sure to check temperature before feeding for safety.

4. Try Different Flavors and Types

The many options within the portfolio of Wellness^® Wet Cat Food provide high-quality ingredients and crave-worthy flavors. So what’s the best wet cat food for picky cats?  Every feline has their own favorite.  Shop from our line of products including:

• Wellness^® Complete Health – Crafted to deliver a complete and balanced diet full of nutrients.
• Wellness^® CORE – Protein rich formula uses high-quality ingredients to support whole-body health.
• Wellness^® CORE+ – Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted to support the five signs of wellbeing plus the unique nutritional needs of your cat.
• Wellness^® Canned Cat Food – Grain-free and protein-rich for optimal nutrition.
• Best Canned Cat Food for Picky Eaters – Look for options labeled for finicky eaters.

Find the best canned food for your cat here.

5. Adjust Feeding Times

Instead of leaving food out all day, try scheduled feedings. Cats are more likely to eat when hungry and know mealtime is limited.

6. Make Mealtime Fun

Picky cats sometimes need a little motivation! Try:

• Placing food in puzzle feeders.
• Hand-feeding small amounts.
• Feeding in a quiet, stress-free area.
• Placing food in a cat tree or a different room to encourage “hunting”.

7. Switch to Vet-Recommended Wet Cat Food

If your cat is particularly stubborn, try wet cat food, especially formulated for picky eaters. All Wellness wet cat food is vet recommended* and tasty options, like Wellness Tiny Tasters or Wellness Wet Food, are both nutritious and appetizing.

Special Considerations for Kittens and Senior Cats

How to Get Kittens to Eat Wet Food

If you’re introducing canned kitten food, start with small amounts mixed with warm water. Encourage them by dabbing a bit on their nose or paw so they instinctively lick it off.

Best Wet Food for Senior Cats

Older cats may need wet cat food for senior cats that’s softer and easier to digest. Wellness Complete Health Age Advantage and grain-free canned cat food are great options.

Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Wet Food for Your Picky Cat

Every cat is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. With patience and experimentation, you’ll discover the best canned wet food for cats that your fussy feline will love. Whether it’s pâté, shredded, or flaked cat food, there’s an option that will satisfy even the pickiest eater.