When changing your cat’s food — especially for allergy or digestive issues — it’s usually best to do it gradually.
A slow transition helps reduce stomach upset and gives your cat time to adjust to the new food.
How to transition food
A typical approach:
Day 1–2: 75% old food, 25% new food
Day 3–4: 50% old, 50% new
Day 5–6: 25% old, 75% new
Day 7+: 100% new food
Some cats need a slower transition, especially if they have sensitive digestion.
Because cats can be fussy, it’s often helpful to start with a small amount of a new food before committing to a full box, that way you can be sure your cat will accept its new meals. I’ve put together a few small trial packs so you can test different options and see what your cat will accept.
When to go slower
You may need to slow down if your cat develops:
- diarrhoea or soft stools
- vomiting
- refusal to eat
In these cases, return to the previous ratio and progress more gradually.
What if your cat won’t eat the new food?
This is very common, especially with specialist diets.
You can try:
- warming the food slightly to enhance smell
- offering small amounts at first
- mixing with a small amount of familiar food (if appropriate)
- using FortiFlora (a tasty probiotic) or tolerated treats as sprinkles
- offering food at regular times rather than free feeding
- offering food in a new location
Be cautious with elimination diets — adding other foods can affect the results.
Appetite tips
- keep feeding times consistent
- use a clean bowl in a quiet location
- avoid offering too many alternatives at once
Important note
If your cat refuses food for more than 24 hours, especially if they are overweight or unwell, contact your vet for advice.
Final note
Every cat is different. Some transition easily, while others take time. A gradual, patient approach usually gives the best results.