Cat Transition Tips

If you are having some difficulties with getting your kitty transitioned to Viva, here are a few tips to help:

For picky kitties, a slower, gradual transition often works best when introducing a new food. Start by offering a very small amount of Viva, around ¼ teaspoon, mixed thoroughly with their current food. Over the next 2-3 weeks, slowly increase the amount of Viva while monitoring their adjustment.

If your cat is transitioning from a dry food diet, consider starting with canned wet food before moving to raw. This gives your kitty time to adjust to the higher moisture content, softer texture, and a new feeding routine, making the switch to raw smoother. Cats accustomed to kibble often develop strong preferences for its texture and additives, so introducing wet food first helps retrain their palate and digestive system without overwhelming them.

Creating a consistent feeding routine is essential for helping your cat adjust to raw food. Instead of free-feeding, stick to specific meal times so your cat knows when to expect their raw food. This structure helps regulate their appetite and encourages them to be more receptive to the changes.

Over time, a set schedule also helps your cat’s digestive system adjust and reduces uncertainty around mealtime, making the transition smoother.

Raw food straight from the fridge can be too cold and unappealing for some cats. Warming it up enhances its aroma and texture, making it more enticing and encouraging your cat to eat. One way to do this is to let the food sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. 

Alternatively, you can place the food in a sealed container or bag and submerge it in warm water, stirring every 30 seconds to gradually bring it to a more appetizing temperature.

Drizzle a little warm, low-sodium bone broth (without onions or garlic) over the raw food to enhance the flavor. Since cats are drawn to strong smells, you can also sprinkle nutritional yeast or a smelly topper, like sardines or tuna, on top to make the meal even more enticing.

The irresistible aroma usually catches their attention and encourages them to eat.

Since raw food mimics a cat’s natural prey, engaging their hunting instinct can help boost their appetite. You can use a feather wand or toy before meals to get them moving and excited.

Additionally, serving raw food on a flat plate or in a food puzzle can make mealtime more interactive, encouraging your cat to “hunt” for their food.

Cats are highly sensitive to scents. Try rubbing a small amount of the new food onto their paws or whiskers, allowing them to explore the food in a more familiar, non-threatening way. This may lead to them becoming more comfortable with the food’s smell and taste.

Every time your cat tries a bit of the new food, offer a positive reinforcement like a gentle pet or a favorite activity. Associating the new food with positive experiences can help your cat become more willing to try it