Feed with confidence
How to switch or transition your pets’ food
Feed with confidence
How to switch or transition your pets’ food
Coming soon, select Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin foods will have updated formulas.
Transitioning your pet's food can be easy, but please be sure to plan ahead to make it as seamless as possible. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Transitioning your pet to a new food
There will likely be a time when your pet will need to switch to a new food, whether it’s to a therapeutic nutrition, a new formula or they just need a food that better suits their life stage. Pets should gradually transition to new food to avoid stomach upset. Here are some tips for transitioning your pet to a new food.
Transitioning your pet to a new food
There will likely be a time when your pet will need to switch to a new food, whether it’s to a therapeutic nutrition, a new formula or they just need a food that better suits their life stage. Pets should gradually transition to new food to avoid stomach upset. Here are some tips for transitioning your pet to a new food.
Determine the right amount per serving
Make sure that you’re not overfeeding your pet, and the portions they get are appropriate for their weight and health needs. Your veterinarian will have the best recommendation on serving size, but you can also check the feeding guide on your pet’s food packaging.
Follow this 7-day transition schedule
Once your portions are correct, gradually decrease the amount of current (old) food while increasing the amount of new food. Be patient — if it seems like your pet needs a little more time, add an extra day or two to the schedule.
Follow this 7-day transition schedule
Once your portions are correct, gradually decrease the amount of current (old) food while increasing the amount of new food. Be patient — if it seems like your pet needs a little more time, add an extra day or two to the schedule.
While it’s not a necessity, some pets are a little more stubborn than others, and a little wet food can make all the difference. To avoid going over their daily caloric intake requirements, be sure to check with your vet on the proper serving sizes.
While it’s not a necessity, some pets are a little more stubborn than others, and a little wet food can make all the difference. To avoid going over their daily caloric intake requirements, be sure to check with your vet on the proper serving sizes.
- Softening dry food
- Adding taste enhancers
Combine wet & dry food
Try feeding your pet the dry kibble version of the same diet and softening it with the following ratios:
Add the following “enhancers” to make your pet’s dry food more appealing
Before adding any of these to your pet’s meal plan, check with your veterinarian to make sure it is appropriate for your pet’s diet. Added properly, it should make up 10% or less of your pet’s daily calories (kcal).
Find the right food for your pet
The right nutrition is essential to pets living happy, healthy lives. See which foods fit your pet's unique nutrition needs here.