How to change your pet's diet

If you have decided to change your pet's diet, feed your pet a combination of the new and old food over a 10-day period to get them used to the new texture and smell. Abrupt changes to a pet's diet can trigger diarrhea and other intestinal upsets, especially if your pet has a sensitive stomach, so be deliberate and consistent in how you do it.

On the first day, feed your pet 90 percent old food, 10 percent new food; continue on the second day with 80 percent old food, 20 percent new food and so on. At the end of the 10-day period, your pet should be fully transitioned to the new food.

As always, consult your veterinarian on the nutritional needs of your pet.

The information used in this report is approved by PetSmart nutritionists and vet experts.

Information from "Small Animal Clinical Nutrition," 4th Edition, Hand, Thatcher, Remillard, Roudebush, Copyright 2000 by Mark Morris Institute was used in this report.