A gradual transition allows the digestive system and habits to adapt. Duration is not a rigid rule: some animals need a slower progression, especially when they are sensitive.
- Keep enough old food before starting.
- Increase the new product by steps.
- Change only one variable at a time.
- Seek advice if symptoms are severe, persistent or accompanied by lethargy.
1 An example of progress
Start with a majority of old food and a small portion of the new one, then increase the new recipe every two or three days. Thus, a transition can last a week or more. For an animal known as sensitive, slow down each step.
Weigh each portion instead of mixing by eye. If the two products have different energy densities, use their respective feeding guides to calculate each share.
2 What to observe
Monitor appetite, comfort, stools, any vomiting, activity and hydration. A minor one-off change may occur, but the overall trend should remain positive. Keep a simple daily record to assess the situation objectively.
Avoid adding many treats, oils or supplements at the same time. You can no longer attribute an improvement or discomfort to a specific change.
3 When to discontinue the test
Repeated vomiting, severe diarrhoea, blood, pain, lethargy, a prolonged refusal to eat or dehydration cannot be addressed by simply adjusting the kibble. Contact a veterinarian.
If the food has been prescribed for medical reasons, follow the protocol given by the veterinary team, which may differ from a standard transition.
We give you clear, straightforward answers.
How many days does a food transition take?＋
Often a week or more, depending on the animal and food. A sensitive profile may require longer steps.
Can we make a transition in a difficult cat?＋
Yes, very gradually, respecting its texture preferences and without allowing it to fast. A persistent refusal justifies a veterinary opinion.
Information content based on recognized references. It does not replace a diagnosis or veterinary prescription.
Nutritional Recommendations FEDIAF 2025 ↗Nutrition Tools of WSAVA ↗
