You stare at the half‑empty pantry, wondering how to stretch each grocery bill while still feeding your cat meals that smell like a fresh‑caught fish market. The same old cans sit on the shelf, their bright colors promising flavor, but you’re tired of guessing which ones actually contain real meat and essential nutrients.
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A good wet cat meal delivers true protein, adequate taurine, and a balanced nutrient profile, yet many shoppers fall for cheap fillers, vague ingredient lists, or overly processed textures that leave cats unsatisfied.
This guide ranks eight budget‑friendly wet cat foods, selected for genuine animal protein, essential amino acids, and overall value, and by the end you’ll know exactly which cans and pouches give the best nutrition without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaways
If you’re trying to stretch your cat‑food budget without sacrificing nutrition, look for wet foods that deliver at least 8 % crude protein (as‑fed) and put real meat at the top of the ingredient list. You’ll notice that these formulas keep your kitty strong and satisfied while keeping carbs low. Choose options that list taurine and meet AAFCO “complete and balanced” standards for adult cats, so you can feel confident you’re covering all essential nutrients.
For anyone who hates cluttered pantries, recyclable pull‑tab cans or single‑serve cups make storage a breeze and cut down on waste. You’ll appreciate the convenience of easy‑open packaging that fits neatly on a shelf or in a bag. Look for formulas that steer clear of corn, wheat, soy, peas, and potatoes, because those fillers add unnecessary carbs without nutritional benefit.
What makes this budget pack stand out is the sheer number of servings per case—think 40‑can or 48‑can boxes that bring the cost per ounce down dramatically. You’ll get more meals for less money, which is perfect for multi‑cat households. Opt for a size that offers at least 40 servings, and you’ll see the savings add up while your cat enjoys a tasty, protein‑rich meal each day.
| Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food Variety Pack 40ct 6 |  Best Overall | Form: Pate | Primary Protein Sources: Seafood, Chicken | Packaging Type: Recyclable pull‑tab cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis | |
| Strong Heart Wet Cat Food Liver & Chicken 13.2 oz (12‑Pack) |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Form: Pate | Primary Protein Sources: Chicken, Liver, Whitefish | Packaging Type: Metal cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food Variety Pack – 48 ct. Can |  | Value Pack | Form: Flake/Prime Filets | Primary Protein Sources: Ocean Whitefish, Tuna, Chicken | Packaging Type: Metal cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Meow Mix Savory Seafood Morsels (12‑Pack) |  | Seafood Lover | Form: Morsels (chunks in gravy) | Primary Protein Sources: Tuna, Salmon, Ocean Whitefish | Packaging Type: Plastic cups with peel‑off lids | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food Variety Pack (48 servings) |  | Gourmet Choice | Form: Petites (twin trays) | Primary Protein Sources: Ocean Whitefish, Salmon, Chicken | Packaging Type: Break‑apart twin trays (tubs) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Purina Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Wet Cat Food (24-pack) |  | Protein Power | Form: Gravy (cans) | Primary Protein Sources: Chicken, Turkey, Beef | Packaging Type: Metal cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food Variety Pack (24 Cans) |  | Shred Variety | Form: Shreds (gravy) | Primary Protein Sources: Beef, Chicken, Turkey | Packaging Type: Metal cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Wonder Bound Gourmet Wet Cat Food Variety Pack (24×3oz) |  | Amazon Exclusive | Form: Gravy (cans) | Primary Protein Sources: Turkey, Chicken, Beef | Packaging Type: Metal cans | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food Variety Pack 40ct
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If you’re looking for a cheap, no‑fuss wet cat meal that keeps a picky adult cat happy, the 40‑can Variety Pack delivers a smooth pate that cats love. You’ll get 40 recyclable pull‑tab cans, each 5.5 oz, packed with real seafood and chicken plus taurine for heart health. The high‑protein claim and lack of artificial colors or preservatives mean you’re feeding a balanced diet. It meets or exceeds industry standards, supporting overall wellness and weight management. The case weighs 13.75 lb and fits neatly on a pantry shelf. It’s a solid, affordable choice for everyday feeding.
- Form:Pate
- Primary Protein Sources:Seafood, Chicken
- Packaging Type:Recyclable pull‑tab cans
- Count per Pack:40 cans
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:All life stages / adult
- Additional Feature:Recyclable pull‑tab cans
- Additional Feature:5.5 oz per can
- Additional Feature:High‑protein claim
Strong Heart Wet Cat Food Liver & Chicken 13.2 oz (12‑Pack)
If you’re trying to keep your cat’s meals tasty without blowing your budget, the 13.2‑oz liver‑and‑chicken cans hit the mark. You’ll notice the real chicken and ocean whitefish give a savory bite that cheap cans often miss. The pate skips corn, wheat, soy, peas, and potatoes, so you’re not feeding filler.
For anyone who wants a complete, balanced diet for every life stage, the formula packs vitamins and minerals that support a healthy heart and strong muscles. It’s gentle on sensitive stomachs, which helps if your cat is a picky eater. The 12‑pack saves you trips to the store, and the 9.9‑pound box fits nicely in a pantry.
What makes this cat food stand out is the protein‑rich profile that keeps cats satisfied. You get a budget‑friendly option without sacrificing quality. This is a solid choice for everyday feeding.
- Form:Pate
- Primary Protein Sources:Chicken, Liver, Whitefish
- Packaging Type:Metal cans
- Count per Pack:12 cans
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial flavors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:All life stages / adult
- Additional Feature:Corn‑free, gluten‑free
- Additional Feature:Appetite‑stimulating formula
- Additional Feature:Made in USA
Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food Variety Pack – 48 ct. Can
If you’re looking for a cat food that keeps your feline happy without breaking the bank, the 48‑can Friskies Variety Pack delivers a full‑flavored, protein‑rich meal in every bite. You’ll notice the chunky texture and moist aroma make your cat linger over the bowl, especially when the mix of ocean whitefish, tuna, and occasional chicken hits the spot. This high‑protein, limited‑ingredient option feels like a treat, not a compromise—perfect for daily feeding.
For anyone who wants a balanced diet without artificial colors or preservatives, the pack is 100 % complete and balanced for adult cats, so you can serve it every day with confidence. The 5.5‑ounce cans fit neatly in any pantry, and the 264‑ounce total means you won’t be restocking every week. You get a solid, nutritious meal without the hassle of frequent trips to the store.
What makes this cat food stand out is the real meat protein from whitefish and tuna, giving your cat a tasty, natural boost. The generous variety keeps even picky eaters interested, and the convenient size makes portion control easy. You’ll see your cat’s enthusiasm grow with each can.
- Form:Flake/Prime Filets
- Primary Protein Sources:Ocean Whitefish, Tuna, Chicken
- Packaging Type:Metal cans
- Count per Pack:48 cans
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:All life stages / adult
- Additional Feature:Chunky texture with gravy
- Additional Feature:Ocean‑delight seafood focus
- Additional Feature:Limited‑ingredient recipes
Meow Mix Savory Seafood Morsels (12‑Pack)
If you’re looking for a cat food that won’t break the bank, this 12‑pack delivers real fish in a convenient cup. You’ll get twelve 2.75‑oz plastic cups, each filled with chunks in gravy and ocean whitefish, tuna, or salmon. The salmon scent alone can coax even the pickiest eaters to the bowl.
For anyone who wants a balanced diet for kittens, adults, and seniors, the formula is 100 % complete and balanced. It covers all life stages, so you can feed the whole family without buying separate foods.
What makes this seafood mix stand out is the variety that keeps meals interesting. You get three different fish flavors in one box, so your cat never gets bored.
You get a budget‑friendly option without sacrificing nutrition. The only warning is a tuna allergen label, but the mix still offers a tasty, protein‑rich meal.
Perfect for cat owners who love to spoil their felines, this product offers real fish at a price that feels like a treat. It’s not gourmet, but it’s solid value for everyday feeding.
- Form:Morsels (chunks in gravy)
- Primary Protein Sources:Tuna, Salmon, Ocean Whitefish
- Packaging Type:Plastic cups with peel‑off lids
- Count per Pack:12 cups
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:All life stages (kittens, adults, seniors)
- Additional Feature:Plastic cups with peel‑off lids
- Additional Feature:Real salmon ingredient
- Additional Feature:Three distinct seafood recipes
Purina Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food Variety Pack (48 servings)
If you’re trying to keep a finicky adult cat satisfied without blowing your budget, the 48‑serving variety pack gives you real‑meat gravy in convenient 2.8‑oz twin tubs. You’ll find ocean whitefish with tomato, seared salmon with spinach, and grilled chicken with rice, each a bite‑size, chunk‑in‑gravy treat that can double as a topper for dry kibble. The nutrition is 100 % complete for adult maintenance, high‑protein, and free of artificial colors or preservatives, so you’re not feeding junk. You get portion control easy thanks to the twin trays, and the myPurina app even hands you points. It’s cheap, tasty, and works for any breed, so you won’t have to guess which flavor your cat prefers.
- Form:Petites (twin trays)
- Primary Protein Sources:Ocean Whitefish, Salmon, Chicken
- Packaging Type:Break‑apart twin trays (tubs)
- Count per Pack:24 twin tubs (48 servings)
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:All life stages / adult
- Additional Feature:Break‑apart twin tubs
- Additional Feature:Includes tomato in gravy
- Additional Feature:Gourmet “Petites” portion size
Purina Fancy Feast Gravy Lovers Wet Cat Food (24-pack)
If you’re trying to keep your cat’s meals interesting without blowing your budget, the 24‑can, 3‑oz pack of this wet food is a handy solution. It delivers real poultry and beef in each bite, so your feline gets the protein they crave. The light gravy makes it easy for them to lap up, and the variety of chicken, turkey, and beef keeps picky eaters satisfied.
For anyone who wants a balanced diet without extra supplements, this formula is 100 % complete and balanced. You won’t need to add anything else to meet nutritional needs. No artificial colors or preservatives are included, and it’s produced in U.S. facilities with regular safety checks.
What makes this cat food stand out is the convenient 4.5‑pound total weight, which stores easily and reduces trips to the store. The 24‑can size means you have plenty on hand for daily feeding. It feels gourmet yet stays budget‑friendly, so you can treat your cat without breaking the bank.
- Form:Gravy (cans)
- Primary Protein Sources:Chicken, Turkey, Beef
- Packaging Type:Metal cans
- Count per Pack:24 cans
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:Adult
- Additional Feature:Grilled poultry and beef
- Additional Feature:3 oz gourmet cans
- Additional Feature:No artificial colors
Purina Friskies Wet Cat Food Variety Pack (24 Cans)
If you’re trying to keep your adult cat happy without blowing your budget, the 24‑can Purina Friskies pack delivers the variety you need. You’ll rotate beef, chicken, and turkey‑and‑cheese flavors, each in thin shredded pieces swimming in thick gravy, so your cat gets a tasty mix every day. The real meat and poultry give a solid protein boost, and the all‑natural claim feels reassuring. The cans are 5.5 oz, making it easy to switch flavors without breaking the bank. No artificial colors or preservatives, just essential vitamins and minerals for maintenance. The pack weighs 8.25 lb and fits neatly on a shelf, and the U.S.‑made quality keeps you from worrying about overseas sourcing. It’s not gourmet, but it’s complete, balanced, and keeps your cat hydrated—perfect for everyday feeding.
- Form:Shreds (gravy)
- Primary Protein Sources:Beef, Chicken, Turkey
- Packaging Type:Metal cans
- Count per Pack:24 cans
- Artificial Additives:No artificial colors, no artificial preservatives
- Target Life Stage:Adult
- Additional Feature:Thinly shredded pieces
- Additional Feature:Beef, chicken, turkey & cheese flavors
- Additional Feature:Hydrating gravy base
Wonder Bound Gourmet Wet Cat Food Variety Pack (24×3oz)
If you’re looking for a budget‑friendly way to keep your cat’s meals interesting, the 24‑can variety pack delivers three protein flavors in one box. You’ll get 72 oz of gravy‑rich meals that claim 100 % complete nutrition for all life stages, so you can feed kittens and seniors alike. The meat is real, with no artificial flavors, and the small cans are perfect for picky eaters.
For anyone who wants to transition their cat to a new food without stress, simply mix a spoonful with the current kibble for a week, then increase the ratio. This gradual approach helps your cat adjust smoothly.
What makes this cat food stand out is the low price per ounce while still offering turkey, chicken, and beef options. You can keep whiskers twitching without breaking the bank.
You get variety without sacrificing nutrition, and the cans are easy to store and serve. Perfect for busy households, this pack saves you trips to the store.
The Wonder Bound variety pack solves the problem of monotony by providing three flavors in a single purchase, keeping your cat satisfied and your wallet happy.
- Form:Gravy (cans)
- Primary Protein Sources:Turkey, Chicken, Beef
- Packaging Type:Metal cans
- Count per Pack:24 cans
- Artificial Additives:No artificial flavors (no mention of colors/preservatives)
- Target Life Stage:All life stages / adult
- Additional Feature:Amazon‑brand “Love‑infused” label
- Additional Feature:Mix‑and‑match turkey, chicken, beef
- Additional Feature:Transition guidance included
Factors to Consider When Choosing Budget Wet Cat Food
If you’re trying to keep your cat healthy without blowing your budget, start by checking the protein source and ingredient list. You’ll quickly see that cheap doesn’t automatically mean low‑grade meat, and many affordable options actually list real chicken or fish up front. Look for transparent labeling and a solid protein content, but remember a budget formula isn’t a miracle cure for every feline health issue.
For anyone who wants value, compare the price per ounce with the nutritional completeness; some brands squeeze in a full spectrum of vitamins and minerals while staying affordable. You’ll notice that a higher protein percentage often means better muscle support for your cat.
What makes this budget cat food stand out is that it delivers essential nutrients without sacrificing quality. You get a balanced diet that includes taurine, omega‑3s, and antioxidants, all at a price that won’t drain your wallet.
You get the peace of mind that your cat is getting real meat and necessary nutrients, without the premium price tag. It’s a practical choice for everyday feeding.
Perfect for busy pet parents, this food lets you feed confidently while staying within your grocery budget. You’ll appreciate the straightforward ingredient list and the consistent quality batch after batch.
Protein Quality Ingredients
If you’re trying to keep your cat lean and healthy, start by looking for a wet food that lists a specific meat—chicken, salmon, turkey, or similar—as the first ingredient. You’ll avoid vague “meat” or “animal by‑products” that usually hide filler and lower‑quality protein. Check the Guaranteed Analysis; adult formulas typically show 8‑12 % crude protein on an as‑fed basis, and higher protein supports lean muscle better.
For anyone who wants real animal protein, make sure the ingredient list is animal‑derived, not a corn‑wheat‑soy‑pea parade, because cats need taurine and other essential amino acids. You can spot taurine in the list or look for a claim that the formula meets AAFCO standards. Avoid “meat by‑products” and long carb‑heavy lists—they dilute protein quality.
What makes this wet cat food stand out is its focus on pure protein without unnecessary fillers. You get a balanced diet that supports muscle maintenance while staying within a budget. Your cat will enjoy a tasty meal that also meets its nutritional needs.
Price Per Ounce
If you’re trying to figure out the real cost of wet cat food, start by dividing the total price by the total ounces. A 48‑oz case at $12 comes out to $0.25 per ounce, and you should count every can, cup, or tray separately because a 12‑oz can plus a 6‑oz tray isn’t the same as a single 18‑oz pouch. Include any shipping or membership fees and bulk‑discount codes, since they can shift the effective price up or down.
For anyone who wants to avoid hidden costs, check expiration dates and storage requirements—wasting food wipes out any savings. Short sentence: Watch the dates.
What makes this price‑per‑ounce method stand out is its simplicity and relevance to everyday budgeting. It lets you compare “value” bundles quickly, and you can dig deeper by looking at price per gram of protein if you’re a nutrition‑focused shopper.
You get a clear picture of cost without endless calculations. Just do the math once, factor in extra fees, and you’ll know whether a deal truly saves you money.
Nutritional Completeness
If you’re trying to keep your cat healthy without blowing your budget, look for a wet food that’s labeled “complete and balanced.” This tells you the formula meets AAFCO standards, so you can trust the protein, fat, vitamin, and mineral levels. Check the guaranteed analysis: you want at least 30–40% protein on a dry‑matter basis and enough fat for energy.
For anyone who wants to avoid cheap fillers, prioritize formulas that list animal protein like chicken or fish near the top. Taurine, arachidonic acid, vitamin A, and niacin should be present because cats need them.
What makes this wet cat food stand out is its moisture content, usually 70–80%, which helps keep your cat hydrated. Calculate the dry‑matter values if the moisture varies, and make sure fiber and ash stay low.
You get a nutritionally complete meal without sacrificing flavor. The product’s protein and fat percentages meet the needs of adult maintenance, all‑life‑stages, or kittens.
Perfect for budget‑conscious pet parents, this food avoids heavy carbs and plant proteins. It delivers the essential nutrients your cat requires while keeping the price reasonable.
Ingredient Transparency
If you’re trying to pick a cat food that actually fuels your feline, start by checking the ingredient list. You want real protein sources—chicken, salmon, liver—right at the top, not vague “meat by‑products” or “meat meal.” The guaranteed analysis should show a solid balance of crude protein, fat, fiber, and moisture so you can gauge nutrient density.
For anyone who cares about nutrition, look for a label that says the food is “complete and balanced” for your cat’s life stage and, if possible, mentions an AAFCO feeding trial. This tells you the diet meets industry standards.
What makes this cat food stand out is the absence of artificial colors, flavors, BHA, BHT, and ethoxyquin. You’ll also see added taurine and essential vitamins, which are crucial for a healthy cat.
You get peace of mind without guessing where it’s made. Brands that disclose the country of origin or manufacturing facility are far better than those that hide that info. If they hide it, that’s a red flag.
Protein Content
If you’re hunting for budget wet cat food, protein matters more than the price tag. You can decode the label quickly by taking the crude protein percentage and dividing it by (100 – moisture%). For example, an 8 % protein claim on an as‑fed basis with 78 % moisture works out to about 36 % dry‑matter protein, which is solid for an adult cat. Aim for at least 8‑10 % crude protein as‑fed, but 10‑12 %+ is better for lean muscle. Look for named animal proteins—chicken, fish, beef—near the top of the ingredient list, and make sure taurine is present or the label says “complete and balanced.” Now, compare protein‑to‑calorie ratios; a higher ratio means more usable protein and fewer filler carbs, stretching each dollar further. This approach lets you get the nutrition your cat needs without overpaying. Keep an eye on the moisture content, because it hides the real protein level. By focusing on these numbers, you’ll choose a food that supports your cat’s health and your budget.
Allergen Presence
If you’ve already nailed the protein math, the next thing to watch is what might be setting off your cat’s nose or tummy. You’ll notice sneezing or itchy skin after a new can—those are red flags. Look for single‑protein or limited‑ingredient formulas; fewer ingredients make it easier to spot the culprit. Avoid vague labels like “meat by‑products” or “animal digest,” because they hide the exact protein source. Common allergens include chicken, beef, fish, dairy, and eggs, so if your cat reacts, steer clear of those. Grains such as wheat or corn and legumes like peas aren’t true allergens for most cats, but they can still cause sensitivities, so watch symptoms after each meal. If you suspect an allergy, a vet‑supervised 8‑12‑week elimination trial with a novel protein or hydrolyzed diet is the most reliable way to confirm the trigger.
Packaging Sustainability
If you want a wet cat food that’s easy on the planet, start by checking the can material. Aluminum, steel, or PET #1‑#2 containers are best, but only if your town actually recycles them—look up curbside rules to avoid a landfill surprise. For anyone who cares about waste, bulk cases or multipacks cut down on packaging and lower transport emissions, so you get more food for less carbon. Lighter tubs mean less material per 100 g, which also trims shipping carbon. You’ll notice the difference in your bill and your conscience.
What makes this product stand out is the resealable tub design, perfect for leftovers without extra waste. Single‑serve pouches can keep food fresh, but they add more packaging, so choose based on how often you finish a can. Brands that use recycled content and have easy‑to‑separate lids make the recycling loop smoother. You’ll feel good about the choice without breaking the bank.
Perfect for eco‑conscious pet owners, this wet cat food lets you enjoy a tasty meal for your cat while keeping your footprint low. The packaging is simple, recyclable, and designed to reduce waste at every step. You’ll love how easy it is to stay green.
Manufacturer Reputation
If you’re worried about hidden contaminants in your protein, start by checking who actually makes the food. A brand that runs its own factories and follows HACCP or GMP standards cuts the risk of contamination. Look for transparent labels that list the source of chicken, fish, or plant proteins and include a nutrition analysis.
For anyone who wants peace of mind, a clean recall history is a solid sign of compliance. A few recent recalls should raise a red flag, while a spotless record shows the company takes safety seriously.
What makes this product stand out is third‑party testing, ingredient traceability, and certifications like USDA Organic or FEDIAF. These extra layers give you confidence in what you’re eating.
You get reliable customer support without the hassle of waiting. Quick, helpful responses usually mean the brand stands behind its product.
Perfect for health‑conscious shoppers, this brand lets you focus on nutrition, not on guessing the source of the ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Wet Cat Food Be Stored at Room Temperature After Opening?
You can’t leave opened wet cat food out at room temperature for long; bacteria will grow fast. I’m sure you’ve noticed the smell changes after a few hours. All right, the safe window is about two hours, maybe three if it’s cool. Now, if you’re not sure, toss it. I mean, it’s cheap enough to replace. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container and use within 24‑48 hours. Otherwise, discard.
Do Budget Wet Foods Contain Artificial Preservatives?
You’ll find preservatives in many budget wet cat foods, but not all. Some brands, preservatives like BHA, BHT, or propionic acid to extend shelf life; others stick to natural acids, vitamin E, or simply rely on refrigeration. I’m sure you’ve noticed the label “no artificial preservatives” on pricier cans, yet affordable options can still be preservative‑free. All right, check the ingredient list, compare the “no‑preservative” claim, and trust your cat’s palate over the price tag.
How Often Should I Rotate Flavors to Prevent Boredom?
You should rotate flavors every two to three weeks. I’m sure you’ve noticed cats can get picky fast, and a fresh scent or protein—like chicken, tuna, or turkey—keeps them interested. All right, try a weekly schedule if you have many varieties, but a simple two‑week rotation works for most budgets. Now, watch for signs of boredom: slower eating or turning away. I mean, if they’re still begging, you might be over‑rotating.
Are There Any Common Allergens in Low‑Cost Wet Foods?
You’ll find chicken, beef, and fish often hide common allergens like soy, wheat, and dairy in low‑cost wet foods. I’m sure you’ve noticed the same protein source shows up across many budget brands, and the cheaper fillers—corn, gluten, and pea protein—can trigger sensitivities. All right, check ingredient lists for “hydrolyzed” or “limited‑ingredient” tags if you want to avoid those triggers. Now, remember that individual cats vary, so a trial batch may be the only way to know for sure.
What’s the Ideal Serving Size for a Senior Cat on a Budget?
You should feed a senior cat about ¾ to 1 cup of wet food daily, split into two meals, adjusting for activity and weight. If the can is 85 g, that’s roughly 1½–2 cans a day; if it’s 100 g, aim for 1–1¼ cans. Keep an eye on the protein source—chicken, turkey, or fish—and the moisture level, because older cats need both. All right, if your cat stays trim, stay within that range; if it gains, cut a quarter can. Now, remember to factor in any extra kibble or treats you’re giving.
