Some cats transition easily and love our food right away, and others end up in a battle of will with their owners – they’re creatures of habit and have quite particular opinions on things, after all!
We recommend hydrating very small amounts (pea-size portions) of Honest Kitchen food initially, and adding this to their current food. Then, gradually increase the Honest Kitchen food each day over a period of weeks (if needed). Cats have their preferences, and because they are such tactile creatures, you should play around with the water content – adding more if they enjoy soupy meals or using less water if the preference is a tacky consistency.
Cats can be tricky customers and it can be very challenging to persuade them to try something new! Here are a few tried-and-tested tips for transitioning your picky kitty to a new diet.
Go slow
Cats seem more averse to change than dogs, so we recommend hydrating very small amounts (half teaspoon portions) of The Honest Kitchen initially, and adding this to their current food. Then, gradually increase THK food each day over a period of weeks.
Add enticements
Cats are also led by their keen sense of smell, so including some savory foods like bits of meat, cottage cheese, yogurt, raw or cooked egg can help during the transition. Variety is the spice of life, so mix it up!
Trick them
Sometimes it’s necessary to coax your cat to try something new with a mind game. We’ve heard much success with this one! Hydrate the food and then dip the cat's paw into it. Since cats want to be clean, they will lick their paw – and in the process become more accustomed to the taste and tastiness of The Honest Kitchen food!
Changing their feeding schedule
If your cat is used to grazing at will with a bowl of dry food, start by feeding only two times per day, leaving the food out for about 30 minutes each time. Pick up the leftover food, refrigerate and serve to them at the next feeding time. Healthy animals can fast for a day at a time with no harm so don't worry if they miss a meal.