The Right Way to Store Your Pet’s Food to Keep Dog & Cat Food Fresh, Safe, & Nutritious

Photo by Michael G on Unsplash

Did you know that how you store your pet’s food can affect its taste, nutrition, and safety? Whether you feed dry dog food, canned cat food, fresh diets, or freeze-dried pet food, proper storage helps prevent spoilage, maintain nutrients, and keep your pet healthy.

This guide covers how to store pet food for dogs and cats, including dry, wet, raw, and freeze-dried varieties, plus tips on keeping everything fresh and safe.

Why Proper Pet Food Storage Matters

Pet food can lose freshness and nutritional value over time, especially if exposed to air, moisture, or high temperatures. Poor storage also increases the risk of bacteria, mold, or pests. Following safe dog food storage and cat food storage practices keeps meals safe and appetizing for your pet.

How to Store Dry Dog Food and Cat Kibble

• Keep it in the original bag: Dog and cat food bags are designed to block moisture and light. Even if you use a bin, place the bag inside instead of pouring the kibble directly in. This helps maintain freshness and keeps the lot number for recalls.

• Use an airtight container: Store the bag in a clean, airtight container to keep pests out and reduce air exposure, which can make fats go rancid.

• Store in a cool, dry place: Keep food under 80°F (27°C) and away from sunlight. Avoid storing in garages or sheds where temperatures fluctuate.

• Buy only what you can use in 4–6 weeks: Opened kibble is best consumed within this timeframe for freshness and nutrition.

  
  

💡 Every Wag can remind you when it’s time to replace your pet’s kibble so they always get the freshest meals.

How to Store Wet or Canned Dog and Cat Food

Unopened Cans

• Keep in a cool, dry pantry or cupboard.

• Check expiration dates before feeding.

Opened Cans

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the can with a pet-safe lid.

• Refrigerate immediately after opening.

• Use within 2–3 days for safety and quality.

💡 Log opened cans in Every Wag so you never forget when they need to be used.

Food Storage Quick Reference

How to Store Raw or Fresh Pet Food

Frozen Raw Diets

• Keep frozen until ready to feed.

• Thaw in the refrigerator, never at room temperature.

• Use within 2–3 days after thawing.

Refrigerated Fresh Food

• Keep in original packaging or airtight containers.

• Follow the manufacturer’s “use by” date.

💡 Every Wag can set thawing reminders so your pet’s raw or fresh food is ready when you need it.

How to Store Freeze-Dried Dog and Cat Food

• Keep in a cool, dry place away from humidity and temperature changes (like near the stove or in a sunny window).

• Use an airtight container after opening to prevent moisture and odor absorption.

• Follow the “use by” date — even shelf-stable food loses nutrients over time.

• Rehydrate only when ready to serve.

• Refrigerate rehydrated food immediately and use within 2 days, treat it like fresh food once water is added.

• Buy only what you can use within 2–3 weeks after opening for best nutrient quality and flavor.

💡 Track freeze-dried food open dates in Every Wag to avoid waste and ensure safety.

Extra Pet Food Storage Tips for Dogs and Cats

• Wash bowls daily: Clean food and water bowls to prevent bacteria.

• Clean scoops and bins regularly: Wash before adding new food.

• Check for changes: If food smells off, looks different, or your pet refuses it, replace it immediately.

Keep Pet Food Fresh and Safe with Every Wag

With Every Wag, you can:

• Set reminders for pet food expiration dates and thawing times.

• Log diet changes to monitor your pet’s health.

• Share feeding and storage instructions with other caregivers.

Following proper dog food storage and cat food storage practices ensures your pet’s meals stay fresh, safe, and packed with nutrition. With Every Wag, you’ll have all the tools to manage it effortlessly.