It is important when introducing a new food to your dog or cat that you transition them onto the new food gradually. A rapid change in diet can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. Mixing the new food with the old food over a 7 day period will allow your pet’s gastrointestinal tract to adjust to the composition of the new diet.
Working together with your veterinarian can ensure the right diet choice and correct feeding amount based on your pet’s individual needs.
Feeding guide for a diet change:
Day 1 & 2 : Feed 25% of the total daily amount of the new food mixed with 75% of the old food.
Day 3 & 4 : Feed 50% of the new food mixed with 50% of the old food.
Day 5 & 6 : Feed 75% of the total daily amount of the new food mixed with 25% of the old food.
Day 7 and on : Feed only the new diet.
If your pet is on a hypoallergenic or novel protein diet it is important that once the transition period is complete only the new food is fed. This includes any treats or table scrapes.
If your pet is on a diet trial to rule out food allergies the new food will need to be fed for a minimum of 8-12 weeks exclusively.
