Raw Feeding Guide for Cats

My cat is fussy. How should I transition to a raw diet?

Cats are fussy because they are "imprint eaters", which means they learn as a kitten what is food from their mother. They are also fussy because they are often used to food left out all day.

When transitioning, keep the four T's in mind - temperature, texture, taste and time.

• Temperature - feed the new food at the same temperature as their current food. Your cat likes food cold from the fridge? Do the same with raw. Your cat likes dry food? Get the new food to room temperature before serving.
• Texture - if your cat has only eaten dry, they won't be happy with the texture of raw. Transition your cat to wet canned food before replacing that with raw.
• Taste - what flavour does your cat like? Select the same flavour raw food.
• Time - leaving food out all day? Switch to meal times. Instead of food out all day, allow the food out for 30 minute periods for breakfast and dinner. Don't eat food during this time? Take the food away and feed the next meal.

Transitioning can take 30 days or more for cats. Expect some sloppy stools and vomiting, but this shouldn't be a concern unless there's blood (take to the vet!) or vomiting every meal.

In that case, gently cook the new food during the transition period to help digestion.