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My cat won't eat dry food, only expensive wet food. What can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 20 days old | 9 lbs

Hi. Oliver doesn't want to eat his dry food, no matter what brand it is. I've tried everything to make him to eat dry food but it didn't work. He can finish his half cup of dry food but within 2 days. He only eats fancy feast wet food because it has a lot of varieties of flavors. I can't feed him cheaper wet food because the flavors is always fish and he doesn't like it. I also cannot feed him fancy feast only because it's too expensive. What do I do?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 20th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Oliver. First, I would have him seen by his veterinarian to ensure he does not have a medical problem. Abdominal pain can result in a poor appetite. Is he having trouble with constipation? Vomiting or diarrhea? Based on his age, he is likely teething. His mouth may be sore making him prefer soft food. You can try a couple of things. Adding warm water to dry kibble may help. You can see how much water he likes. Some cats will eat it soupy and other like it better if all the water is absorbed. The other option is to mix a tablespoon of Fancy Feast with the dry kibble. I hope this information helps you!

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