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Changing food is sometimes necessary — a new life stage, a vet recommendation, or simply a better fit. Doing it gradually gives your pet’s digestion time to adjust and helps avoid an upset stomach.
Take it slowly: a 7–10 day plan
Mix the new food into the old one, increasing the share step by step:
- Days 1–2: about 25% new food, 75% current food.
- Days 3–4: about half and half.
- Days 5–6: about 75% new food, 25% current food.
- Day 7 onward: 100% new food.
If your pet has a sensitive stomach, stretch each step over a few more days. There’s no prize for finishing early.
What to watch during the switch
- Stool: a little change is common; ongoing loose stool is a sign to slow down.
- Appetite: some pets are picky at first. Mixing well and keeping meal times consistent helps.
- Energy and mood: your pet should feel like themselves throughout.
- Itching or skin changes: worth noting, especially if you changed protein sources.
Consistency is the secret: same times, measured portions, one change at a time.
Tips for a smooth transition
- Measure portions; new foods often have different calorie density, so check the feeding guide.
- Avoid adding new treats or supplements during the switch, so you can tell what’s causing any change.
- Keep fresh water available at all times — especially when moving from wet to dry food.
- For cats, warming wet food slightly can make a new flavour more appealing.
When to call your vet: if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day, your pet refuses food, seems lethargic, or has a medical condition or special diet, talk to your veterinarian before and during any change.
Track it with Pawify
Log meals as feeding reminders with portion and brand, and use the daily check-in to note appetite and energy. After a week or two you’ll have a clear picture of how the new food suits your pet.