When it comes to proper nutrition for your cat, there is no one-size-fits-all pet food that caters to any life stage. As your cat grows, switching to age-specific food ensures tailored nutrition. Whether dealing with finicky eaters or aiming to combat obesity, changing cat food is normal, but understanding the reason behind it is just as crucial to helping you choose the right food for your fur baby. However, it is not the trickiest part yet. How to change your cat’s food (the transition phase) will need a trick or two. Fret not, we compiled these helpful tips for changing your cat’s food and making the journey a rewarding experience for both your cat and you.
WHY CHANGE?
- Dry, Dull or Greasy Fur
Having a happy and healthy feline friend means their coat will be lusciously clean, soft, and beautifully shiny. However, if you notice any dry, oily, coarse, or brittle fur, it is time to consider adjusting their diet. Opt for foods like ProDiet Salmon & Mackerel packed with Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids from real seafood, promoting a glowing and smooth coat. If the issue persists, do not hesitate to consult your vet for the best care for your fur baby.
- Life Stage
Nutrition plays a vital role in your cat’s life, and it is crucial to consult your vet during the key stages: kitten, adult, and senior. For kittens, opt for ProDiet’s Kitten Fresh Mackerel which is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids from real seafood. This supports healthy brain development and skin health, ensuring their growth and playful lifestyle. Adult cats benefit from food labelled specifically for them like ProDiet’s Gourmet Seafood, crafted with well-rounded nutrition for healthy digestion and immune system. For senior felines with medical concerns, dietary adjustments can be helpful. Choose cat food with added glucosamine and chondroitin like ProDiet’s Senior Salmon and Chicken to enhance mobility and joint health, and reduce inflammation. Your vet’s advice combined with the right nutrition ensures a happy and healthy furry companion.
- Weight Problems
It is common for our furry friends to put on some extra pounds, and it is especially easy to spot in small cats. If your cat needs to shed a few inches, a weight loss diet tailored to their needs will provide essential nutrients while reducing calories. For significantly overweight or obese cats, it is wise to seek guidance from your vet for a specialised nutritional plan.
- Lifestyle
If you have given a loving home to an outdoor cat and kept it indoors, consider switching to ProDiet’s Ocean Fish, tailored to meet the nutritional needs of indoor cats. Indoor kitties are more relaxed and prone to hairballs, hence this special formula aids hairball control and reduces unpleasant stool odours.
- Personal Preference
As pet owners, we are often drawn to trendy cat food diets like raw, organic, and grain-free options. However, it is crucial to understand your cat’s unique dietary requirements. An abrupt change in their diet can lead to digestion problems and nutritional imbalances. Before making the switch, consult your veterinarian to ensure the best choice for your furry friend’s health. Your vet knows what’s purr-fect for them!
- Picky Eaters
Is your feline friend a picky eater? It is not uncommon for cats to get bored with their food quickly. To add some excitement, try offering different flavours or textures. As long as the new food meets your pet’s health and life stage needs, it is okay to switch things up. Some cats prefer kibble, while others love wet food, and some enjoy a mix. ProDiet offers both wet and dry options, perfect for even the most discerning cat’s palate. Give them a taste test and see what makes their whiskers twitch with delight!
- Recovery Period
Has your feline buddy been through a tough time, dealing with stress, illness, or surgery? It is completely normal for them to feel lethargic or weak. You can lend a helping paw by providing cat food that contains antioxidants from real tuna like ProDiet’s Fresh Tuna to boost their immune system and speed up the recovery process, getting them back on their paws in a jiffy! But if you notice any sudden sign of lethargy or weakness, it is best to have a vet check them before making any dietary adjustments.
HOW TO CHANGE?
- Portion Monitoring
We can feel your excitement as you are eager for your cat to try new food, especially if it can improve their weight or health! Yet, it is best to take things slow. A gradual transition prevents tummy troubles and allows your fur baby to embrace the new flavours and textures with ease. So, here is what we recommend:
- Days 1 to 2: Feed 75% of the current food and add 25% of the new food.
- Days 3 to 4: Go for a 50%-50% mix of the current food and the new food.
- Days 5 to 7: Feed 25% of the current food and 75% of the new food.
- Days 8 to 10: Serve only the new food.
- Be Gentle and Patient
Just like us, our adorable fur babies have feelings. Be patient and never force your kitty to try new food. Use a gentle and encouraging approach with a pleasant tone to entice them to taste it. Remember, kindness wins over aggression, and they will likely come around in their own time.
- Persevere and Avoid Treats
It is surprising, but cats can train us too! Giving in to their demands when they refuse new food makes the transition harder. Stay strong, avoid going back to old food or giving treats, and persevere during the first three days. Your cat will adjust in time.
AFTER THE CHANGE, WHAT IS NEXT?
The transition to new pet food can be a rewarding experience when your cat indulges in the new food, and you get to enjoy the view of your fur baby savouring every bite and lick of the new food. As much as the transition can be smooth, it is essential to stay vigilant for any signs of trouble. The most crucial aspect of the change is ensuring they continue to eat, even if it is less than usual. If they consume less than 3 tablespoons daily, do reach out to your vet.
Digestive issues like diarrhea and vomiting are common signs of a problem, but watch out for other indicators too. If your cat rejects the food, has a dull coat, or loses weight, seek professional advice from your vet. They will conduct a thorough examination to identify the cause of the health issues and determine if the new food is involved.
Considering a food switch? Have a chat with your vet to seek guidance and discuss your concerns that cater to your cat’s unique dietary needs.
