Most of us use convenient large packages of granules. But how should we store them at home without degrading their quality? Why buy expensive, high-quality granules to degrade them with storage?
Granules aren't as prone to decomposition as wet canned and pouch food, but many factors can harm their quality. It's therefore necessary to store them properly. This particularly applies to the large packages, which we buy due to their convenient price, but we have them open for a long time.
I became interested in proper storage when my cat stopped eating her granules and I couldn't figure out why. I thought she'd had enough of them and that I will have to buy another flavor. When I consulted my friend, a big cat expert, she smelled the granules and knew right away – they were rancid.
To maintain the quality of the granules, to ensure that your pets eat them and that they cause no health problems, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Most manufacturers make at least the big bags with a ziplock. That's great, as you don't have to think of anything, just make sure the ziplock is always closed properly along its entire length and that you don't pay for your carelessness like me. The airtight closure prevents oxidation of the granules and thus extends their shelf life. If you have trouble removing the granules from the bag or you just want to store them a bit more aesthetically at home, you can put them in a box, barrel or container. I was given a recommendation to put the granules with the original bag into a barrel. Like this you will avoid contaminating the food.
After my experience, I no longer buy a 7 kg pack for my cat (since it receives a dose of wet food several times a day, she doesn't consume as many granules); however, a dog can finish a 15 kg bag of granules before they start to deteriorate. It is recommended to use the opened package within 3 months, so take this into account when buying the granules whether they are discounted or not. Also be sure to check the expiration date.
Granules don't like moisture and heat, so think about where you store them. A balcony or humid cellar are not suitable at all. Choose the driest, coolest place. A pantry is best, if you have one.
Don't let your dog or cat eat granules from the barrel or bag, not even one. Their saliva contaminates the whole batch, opening the door to bacteria.
You should wash the bowls after each meal so that food and saliva residue does not contaminate the next batch.
How do you store granules at home? Do you have any tips or tricks?
In this cycle, we’re going to have a look together on how cats and dogs are doing around the world. Where they are pampered and people forego them and where, to the contrary, the pets suffer and their situation is critical. Today, I will introduce you...
Especially outdoor cats are often suffering from ear mites. What is it actually, and how to get rid of it?
In this series, we will get to know famous dog personalities. Dogs play an important role in our life, so let’s take a look what they have already achieved during the time of our lives together. With his determination, Balto saved lives of many people...
Everyone likes to take their four-legged friend along with them on a holiday, but the situation just won’t allow it sometimes. Not all the dogs take well to long trips by car or high temperatures, or are A graders in obedience, some are habitual...
Already since about 100 thousand years ago, when people started with domestication, we have been aware of positive effects of living together with animals. And this doesn’t concern only healing methods. Already the very presence of our pets helps us to...
If you have a cat at home, you have certainly encountered the issue of who will take care of it at times. Especially now, at the time of holidays and departures for vacations. Relatives or friends are not always able to come over and to take the cat...
I have already written about dangerous foods for dogs. But how about cats?
All of us probably know that chocolate is dangerous for dogs. However, did you know that you can poison your furry friend even with nuts, for example?
The time of kittens is getting closer. Outside, however, the kittens may lose their mum from various reasons. Besides, people will start getting rid of unwanted family arrivals. So it can easily happen to you, that you will find little cat new-borns....
Do you know, that you can insure your pet? But does it even pay off, what does the insurance cover and what are the conditions?
You may have already met a dog with a tied yellow ribbon on its collar or on its leash in the street. Did you know, that it is not a fashion accessory, but a message for the passers-by?
Rabbit hopping is a relatively young discipline that is quickly gaining new fans. After all, rabbits are virtually born for jumping, so why not use it for both their and their master’s entertainment.
