How to Correctly Transition Cat Foods

May 6th, 2022

Cats change over time, and so do their nutritional needs. Frisky little kittens become adults, and adults become seniors. Different milestones often require switching foods, which can be quite the challenge. Here’s all you need to know about transitioning your furry friend to a new kitty diet.

Why Would You Need to Switch Cat Foods?

Different life stages have different nutritional needs. Kitten food usually has a higher protein content and calorie count to meet the rapid growth requirements. Otherwise, you risk having a sick kitten with developmental complications. Cats often become obese as they get older, so it’s essential to consider your adult cat’s activity level and lifestyle as you select nutritious and high-quality pet food.

As the years go by and your fur-ever friend becomes a senior, medical concerns may surface, requiring dietary changes. For example, mobility issues may require foods containing glucosamine and fatty acids such as DHA and EPA. There are also foods that are specific to certain conditions, including chronic kidney disease or heart disease.

While lifestyle stages usually dictate diet changes, there are some additional signs that it’s time to adjust your kitty’s diet. These include obesity, lethargy, weakness, digestive problems, a dry or flaky coat, or specific medical concerns.

How Should You Transition Your Cat to a New Food?

Transitioning your kitty to a new diet is a process that requires planning and patience on your part. Switching foods too fast can leave your feline friend with digestive upset, diarrhea, and vomiting, so whatever you do, avoid abrupt changes.

When planning food transitions, think seven days. On the first day, offer your cat a mix of mostly the current food with a tiny taste of the new food. On each following day, add more of the new and take out more of the old until, by day 7, the transition is complete.

When Is it Time to Visit the Vet?

You’ll need to monitor your cat for some time to ensure there are no changes in health, appearance, and behavior. If you have any concerns, contact your trusted team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital for a consultation.

We also advise having your cat evaluated if you ever notice a distinct change in hunger levels, including a dramatic decrease or increase in appetite. Never resort to switching foods or overcompensating with treats as a remedy. Determining and addressing the underlying causes of your concerns will help your cat thrive.

Need More Help?

If you need help determining the best cat nutrition for your furry friend, All About Cats Veterinary Hospital in Kirkland, WA, is here to help. We’ll evaluate your feline friend’s unique needs and make recommendations to promote long-term health and wellness. You can always count on us for pur-fectly compassionate care because, after all, we are all about cats!