Feed with confidence

how to switch or transition your pet’s food

Upgraded Science Diet formulas are on the way

Coming soon, select Science Diet foods will have updated formulas with breakthrough innovations developed by our team of over 200 veterinarians and nutritionists.

 

Featuring our latest science — ActivBiome+ Ingredient Blend

  • Unique blend of prebiotics formulated for digestive health & overall well-being
  • Nourishes a pet’s gut microbiome to support immune system health

Be sure to plan ahead for a seamless transition to your upgraded formula.

Packages of food Science Diet formula for dog and cat

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.

Transforming lives food package
1

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.

2

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.

pet food transition days 1-2

DAYS 1-2

pet food transition days 3-4

DAYS 3-4

pet food transition days 5-6

DAYS 5-6

pet food transition day 7

DAY 7

A gray cat eating on the floor
3

Consider making your pet’s dry food more like wet food

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.

Combine wet & dry food

Try feeding your pet the dry kibble version of the same diet and softening it with the following ratios:

Mix Option Dry Food Wet Food
Crunchtime 95% 5%
A Bit of Bite 90% 10%
Soft ’n Chewy 80% 20%

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).

Low sodium and protein options
Low Sodium Chicken Broth* 0kcal/cup
Homemade Broth* 0kcal/cup
Liquid Smoke - no additives (2-3 drops) 0kcal/cup
Unsweetened Applesauce 6kcal/Tbsp
*All broth should be free of onions, garlic, seasonings, or spices  
Low sodium, moderate protein, and phosphorus options
Low Fat Plain or Vanilla Yogurt 14 kcal/Tbsp
*Avoid any yogurt that uses artificial sweeteners  
Low sodium, fat, phosphorus, and protein options
Honey 62 kcal/Tbsp
A white and black dog and an orange cat happy stare at the camera

Find the right food for your pet

Hill’s Science Diet provides science-led nutrition to support pets’ ever-changing needs. Our portfolio also includes specialized nutrition for pets’ weight, skin, stomach and more.