To determine if your cat's food has gone bad, observe its eating habits. If there's a lot of food left over, it might be because the food is damp. You can also check by touching the kibble; if it feels soft, it's likely spoiled. When filling your cat's bowl, put in only small portions to avoid waste and spoilage, and make sure to store the food properly.
Methods to Identify Spoiled Cat Food
1. If your cat refuses to eat the food or leaves a lot behind after eating, it could be because the food has become damp and spoiled. This is a common reason for cats to reject their food.
2. Visually inspect the food. Normal cat food has a deeper color, especially food with a high meat content. If the food appears pale or lighter in color, it might be spoiled. The presence of mold or discoloration on the surface of the kibble is a sign of significant spoilage.
3. Take a small amount of food and smell it. Good cat food should have a pleasant aroma, even brands like Nutrisource Red Meat that have a unique smell. Spoiled food will have a pungent, unpleasant, or strange odor.
4. Squeeze a piece of kibble. If it feels soft to the touch, and particularly if it crumbles easily after being squished instead of staying in one piece, this is a strong indication that the cat food has absorbed moisture and spoiled.
How to Store Cat Food for Longevity
1. Smaller bags of cat food often come with a resealable strip. Be careful not to tear it when opening the bag. After each use, ensure the strip is sealed tightly. For larger bags, it's best to use an airtight container with a seal. Include a desiccant packet and store the container in a cool, dry area. Take out only the necessary amount at a time to help prevent spoilage.
2. Consider using food storage containers with latches or screw-top lids. Choose a style that suits your needs and remember to keep the container in a cool, dry location.