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- How to Transition Your Cat to a New Diet

By Darlene Stott
Published: 03/11/2021, edited: 11/03/2023
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Do you have a cat showing their extra finicky side by refusing to eat their regular food? Is your kitten quickly growing and requires a move from kitten kibble to cat food for young furbaby’s? There are many reasons for changing your cat’s food, from a change in nutrition needs to a special diet for health reasons.
- A cat with a health problem such as urinary crystals or diabetes may require a diet change as part of their treatment plan
- Once kittens are 12 months old, they should be switched to an adult cat food
- Cats 7 years and older benefit from a switch to a senior or mature cat food
- Cats that have a sedentary lifestyle due to arthritis or injury will require a new food, different from what an active cat needs
- Cats who are pregnant or nursing need foods that provide extra energy
- Lack of appetite
- Refusal to eat
- Vomiting
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Days 1 and 2: Mix 25% of the new cat food and 75% of the usual food your cat gets.
- Days 3 and 4: Change the mixture to 50% of the new food and 50% of the old food.
- Days 5 and 6: Fill your cat’s dish with 25% of the old food and 75% of the new diet.
- Day 7: Your cat can eat 100% of the tasty new fare!
- Stick to the same feeding time and place as always. Routine means a lot.
- Sprinkle the dry kibble on top of the wet food so your cat can adjust to the smell.
- Try mixing the dry food into the wet food.
- If the cat food is cold from the fridge, warm it up in the microwave. Check carefully that it is not too hot.
- Try adding Fortiflora, a palatable probiotic that can make the eagerly awaited edibles more appealing.
- Feed your cat wet food on a flat dish for easy licking.
- Engage your cat in fun play or a mentally-stimulating training session to build their appetite before feeding.
- Always store your kitty's food properly to ensure maximum freshness and quality.
Got more cat food questions? Chat with a veterinary professional today!
