Is it possible to change your cat's diet?
Adelchi Rainone
If you are a cat owner, you know how important their diet is to their well-being and health. But what happens when your cat refuses to eat the new food you bought for him? Switching to a new food can be difficult for many cats, but there are some tips that can help make the change easier.
The advice veterinarians often give is to use the "conditioning" technique.
Place a bowl with the new food next to the bowl with the old food for a few days, so that the cat can smell it and integrate its aroma into its "predatory pattern". This will help the cat gradually become less wary of the new food.
The second tip is to proceed slowly and gradually mix small quantities of the new food with the old one. How quickly you proceed will depend on your cat's preferences. If your cat is critical and wary, it's best to proceed slowly and use smaller amounts of the new food.
The third tip is to use incentives. You can try reheating the new food slightly or adding a small amount of salt, fish oil, or parmesan, depending on your cat's preferences. This will make the new diet even more palatable.
Finally, it is important to ensure that the cat's bowl is in a quiet, stress-free place, where the cat can eat and smell its food without being disturbed. Some cats prefer elevated places, where they feel safer.
In general, changing your cat's diet takes time and patience. By following these tips, you can help your cat adapt to the new food gradually and safely. However, if your cat continues to refuse the new food, it is important to consult your veterinarian to make sure there are no underlying health problems.
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