Pet Food Storage Tips

Where you store your cat and dog food can make a big difference in the quality and freshness once it is opened. Here are some common questions and recommendations for optimal storage for all of Hill’s dry and canned cat and dog food.

How should I store my cat or dog’s dry food?
Bags of dry Science Diet®, Ideal Balance™, Healthy Advantage® and Prescription Diet® cat or dog food should be stored in a cool, dry environment under 100°F (38°C)? This is to prevent destruction of vitamins and oxidation of fats leading to rancidity. Pet foods will retain their best flavor if stored in the original bag, which provides a fat barrier. Storage at temperatures of 120°F (48°C) for more than 48 hours can accelerate the normal degradation or destruction of the vitamins.

Can I store my cat or dog’s canned food in the garage?
Storing your cat or dog’s food in an uncontrolled environment - such as a garage or outdoors – is not recommended.

• For dry cat and dog food
  • Store the food in a cool and dry environment. It is best to store the bag off the floor to reduce potential infestation.
• For canned cat and dog food
  • Prior to opening, store cans in a place where the temperature is between 50-100°F. Do not freeze canned cat or dog food as it can change the texture and taste of the food.

Should I use a plastic storage container for my cat or dog’s food?
Many cat and dog owners like to transfer their cat or dog’s dry food from the bag to another container. Studies by Hill's® packaging engineers have shown that storage in a variety of plastic containers (garbage cans, zip-to-close bags, garbage or, kitchen bags, rubber/plastic containers, plastic pails, etc.) may impart an odor and taste to dry pet foods that adversely effects the taste of the food. Zip-to-close bags, garbage and similar bags will also not prevent fat from accumulating on the outside of the bag. Storage in clean metal containers (small metal tins, metal garbage cans, etc.) is acceptable. If you do prefer using a storage container, keep the food in the original bag within the container to create an ideal storage location.

How do I store open cans of cat or dog food?
Opened cans of Science Diet®, Ideal Balance™, Healthy Advantage® or Prescription Diet® cat or dog food should be stored in the fridge to retain moisture, minimize exposure to air and reduce transfer of odors to other food. The best way to store opened cans of cat or dog food is to use a plastic pet food lid that fits the top of the can to prevent moisture loss and transfer of odors. If a plastic lid is not available, plastic wrap also provides a very good moisture, air and odor barrier. Zip-to-close bags provide good moisture barriers but do not provide good oxygen and odor barriers.