How to Transition Your Pet to a New Food

Changing your pet’s diet isn’t something that should happen overnight. Whether you’re moving from the food your pet was eating when you adopted them, switching to a different brand, or starting a raw or fresh food diet, the process needs to be gradual. Taking it slow helps your pet’s digestive system adjust and keeps mealtime a positive experience. 

Why a Slow Transition Matters

Your pet’s digestive system gets used to the nutrients, proteins, and ingredients in their current diet. A sudden change can disrupt this balance, making it harder for their body to process new ingredients right away.

When transitions are rushed, some pets may experience:

• Loose or inconsistent stools
• Temporary changes in appetite
• Mild digestive discomfort
• Extra gas or changes in energy levels

While these signs are typically temporary, they can be avoided or minimized by introducing new food gradually.

How to Transition Your Pet’s Food

A slow transition usually takes 7–10 days (sometimes longer for pets with sensitive stomachs). Here’s a general guide:

Days 1–3

• 75% old food
• 25% new food

Days 4–6

• 50% old food
• 50% new food

Days 7–9

• 25% old food
• 75% new food

Day 10 and beyond

• 100% new food

If your pet shows signs of digestive upset, it’s okay to slow the process even more — giving their system extra time to adapt.

What If You’re Switching Your Pet to a Raw or Fresh Diet?

Transitioning to a raw or fresh food diet often benefits from an even slower schedule. This allows your pet’s digestive enzymes and gut microbiome to adapt to the nutrient density and texture of fresh food. Some pet parents choose to start by mixing small amounts of fresh food with their pet’s current diet or offering it as a topper before fully switching over.

Supporting Your Pet’s Digestive Health During a Transition

A gradual change is the first step — but you can also support your pet’s gut health along the way.

Pet Releaf’s Rituals Digestive Powder with Postbiotics is designed to support a healthy gut environment during times of change, like switching foods. This daily supplement features postbiotics to help maintain healthy digestion and promote optimal stool quality, which can be especially helpful if your pet experiences looser stools during a diet transition.

How to Make Switching Your Pet’s Food Easier and Healthier

Sometimes your pet may need to switch foods for a variety of reasons — whether you’re aiming for a higher-quality brand, introducing a different type of diet, or simply adjusting to better meet their needs. The idea of making a change can feel a little intimidating, but taking it slow can make all the difference. Gradual transitions give your pet’s digestive system time to adapt while helping maintain their routine and reducing the risk of accidents or discomfort.

Pairing a slow transition with digestive support can help keep your pet’s gut balanced throughout the process. With a little patience and the right approach, you can set your pet up for a smooth, easy change that supports their overall wellness from the inside out!