How to Shift Cat From Grain-Free Canned to Raw Cat Food?

Transitioning your cat from grain-free canned food to a raw diet requires careful planning and a gradual approach. Raw cat food can provide several potential benefits for your feline companion, such as improved digestion and overall health. In this article, we will discuss all about “How to Shift Cat From Grain-Free Canned to Raw Cat Food?”

Let’s move on

The First Step

Try feeding your cat some raw chicken or turkey breast cut-ups, chicken liver, or chicken liver pate first. Some cats are quick to take advantage of the situation. Most of my cats adapted to raw food right immediately, although it helped that they were still relatively young at the time of introduction. Kittens tolerate raw cat food without any difficulty. The younger the kitty, the more likely it is that the adjustment will be simpler.

For your first attempt, purchase some professionally prepared raw cat food, such as pawfect kitchen raw meat, or make your own from scratch. The following beef was the most popular among the cats: chicken, turkey, pheasant, quail, and duck. Rabbit is the clear and undeniable favorite of theirs – sorry, paws – down. This makes sense because it is most likely the closest thing to what they would consume in their native environment. Alternatively, they are aware that it is more expensive than chicken. Make sure they get a variety of tastes, so they don’t become focused on a single one.

If they don’t take to raw cat food straight away, there are various other options to consider. Don’t give up on your dreams!

Set out their canned food on a plate rather than in a bowl, and provide a small dish of fresh vegetables next to them. The likelihood is that they will not consume the acceptable food. The goal is to get them acclimated to its scent so that they will begin to associate it with their food as time goes on. As you may have observed, new raw meat has a very faint, subtle odor that is difficult to detect. It’s possible that cats that are accustomed to smelling canned food will not identify it as edible at first.

Try mixing both canned and raw food

Combine a small amount of the raw food with the canned food for them. Begin with a quarter teaspoon of powdered sugar mixed into his meal. This is a tiny quantity, yet he would still eat around it on rare occasions. It’s best to keep it at this level for a few weeks before increasing it to a half teaspoon for a further few weeks. You could also keep providing it to him plain on the side, but he didn’t seem interested. Increase the amount to around one teaspoon and keep it there.

Simply keep increasing the percentage of raw food in your diet, one step at a time, until it is entirely raw. Continue to provide your cat with the chance to consume basic raw food. Please be patient. This is a significant transition for your cat; follow her lead to how quickly you should proceed.

If you haven’t already, and your cats have started eating raw cat food, be sure to incorporate chunked meat into their diets. Cats must chew on the sides of their jaws to maintain good tooth health and strengthen their jaw muscles. Canned food hasn’t required much chewing in cats who have only ever eaten it, so you may have to introduce it gradually to your cat.

After trying above two options do the following:

Consult with a Veterinarian

Before making any dietary changes for your cat, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian. They can assess your cat’s current health and provide guidance on transitioning to a raw diet. A veterinarian’s expertise is invaluable in ensuring that the new diet meets your cat’s nutritional needs.

Research Raw Cat Food

Take the time to research and understand the principles and benefits of a raw cat food diet. Learn about the appropriate balance of proteins, fats, and other nutrients that your cat requires. Familiarize yourself with reputable raw cat food brands or consider preparing homemade raw meals with guidance from a veterinary nutritionist.

Gradual Transition

Sudden dietary changes can be stressful for cats and may lead to digestive upset. Start the transition by gradually introducing small amounts of raw cat food alongside their grain-free canned food. Begin with a ratio of 75% canned food to 25% raw food and gradually increase the proportion of raw food over several weeks.

Monitor Your Cat’s Reaction

Observe your cat closely during the transition period. Monitor their appetite, digestion, and overall behavior. Look for any signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you notice any concerning symptoms, slow down the transition or consult with your veterinarian for guidance.

Proper Food Handling and Hygiene

Raw food carries the risk of bacterial contamination, which can be harmful to both cats and humans. Practice proper food handling and hygiene when preparing and serving raw meals. Thoroughly clean all utensils and surfaces, and wash your hands before and after handling raw food to minimize the risk of bacterial infections.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Maintain regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your cat’s health and well-being. Your veterinarian can assess their overall condition, address any concerns, and make adjustments to the diet if necessary. Regular check-ups are vital to ensure that your cat’s nutritional needs are being met on the raw food diet.

Conclusion

Transitioning your cat from grain-free canned food to a raw cat food diet requires patience, planning, and a gradual approach. Consult with a veterinarian, research raw cat food principles, and monitor your cat’s reaction during the transition. Provide variety and balance in their raw meals while practicing proper food handling and hygiene. Regular veterinary check-ups will help ensure your cat’s health and well-being on the new diet. With proper care and attention, your cat can enjoy the potential benefits of a raw cat food diet.

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