A Step-by-Step Guide on Transitioning Your Pet to a New Food
We understand that making changes to your pet's diet requires thoughtful consideration. Whether you're switching to a more nutritious option or addressing specific dietary needs, regardless of the reason for change, dogs and cats can experience digestive issues if not introduced to a new food gradually, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Transitioning your pet to a new food can be a delicate process. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps of a smooth transition and introduce you to top pet food brands like Royal Canin for cats, Ziwi Peak for dogs, and delicious meal toppers from Norm that can make the transition even more enjoyable.
Transitioning Guide: When moving to a new pet food, take it slow over a 7–10 day period, gradually increasing the proportion of new food to old food each day:
- Start with 75% old food mixed with 25% new food for approximately three days.
- Mix 50% old with 50% new for the next three days.
- Progress to 75% new, 25% old for another three days.
- Finally, switch to 100% new food.
Monitor your pet closely during this transition, adjusting the pace if needed. Cats, in particular, may be more finicky than dogs.
Reasons for Switching Foods: While we've highlighted specific scenarios necessitating a food switch, it's crucial to understand why you might want to make this change:
- New Life Stage: Tailoring the diet to your pet's current life stage.
- Pet Food Allergies: Addressing sensitivities or allergies.
- Weight Management: Adjusting for weight gain or loss.
- Welcoming a New Pet: Adapting to the nutritional needs of a new addition.
- Veterinary Recommendations: Following professional advice.
- Upgrading Formulas: Moving to a more advanced or suitable formula.
Variety in Diet: Once you've found a suitable brand and formula, consider adding variety to your pet's meals. Wet food can provide diverse flavours, but it should complement a complete diet. Experiment with mixing dry and wet food, or incorporate meal toppers, gravies and broths. Maintain a diet that keeps your pet happy and healthy, observing their coat condition for signs of well-being. Stick with a formula that suits your pet to avoid digestive issues.
Our top picks for optimal nutrition: