Feed with confidence
how to switch or transition your pet’s food
Upgraded Science Diet formulas are on the way
Coming soon, select Science Diet foods will have updated formulas with breakthrough innovations developed by our team of over 200 veterinarians and nutritionists for digestion, immune system and organ health.
Featuring our latest science — ActivBiome+ Ingredient Blend
- Unique blend of prebiotics formulated for digestive health & overall well-being
- Nourishes a pet’s gut microbiome to support immune system health
Be sure to plan ahead for a seamless transition to your upgraded formula.
Transitioning your pet to a new food
There will likely be a time when your pet will need to switch to a new food, whether it’s to a therapeutic nutrition, a new formula or they just need a food that better suits their life stage. Pets should gradually transition to new food to avoid stomach upset. Here are some tips for transitioning your pet to a new food.
Determine the right amount per serving
Make sure that you’re not overfeeding your pet, and the portions they get are appropriate for their weight and health needs. Your veterinarian will have the best recommendation on serving size, but you can also check the feeding guide on your pet’s food packaging.
Follow this 7-day transition schedule
Once your portions are correct, gradually decrease the amount of current (old) food while increasing the amount of new food. Be patient — if it seems like your pet needs a little more time, add an extra day or two to the schedule.
DAYS 1-2
DAYS 3-4
DAYS 5-6
DAY 7
Consider making your pet’s dry food more like wet food
While it’s not a necessity, some pets are a little more stubborn than others, and a little wet food can make all the difference. To avoid going over their daily caloric intake requirements, be sure to check with your vet on the proper serving sizes.
Combine wet & dry food
Try feeding your pet the dry kibble version of the same diet and softening it with the following ratios:
| Mix Option | Dry Food | Wet Food |
|---|---|---|
| Crunchtime | 95% | 5% |
| A Bit of Bite | 90% | 10% |
| Soft ’n Chewy | 80% | 20% |
Add the following “enhancers” to make your pet’s dry food more appealing
Before adding any of these to your pet’s meal plan, check with your veterinarian to make sure it is appropriate for your pet’s diet. Added properly, it should make up 10% or less of your pet’s daily calories (kcal).
| Low sodium and protein options | |
|---|---|
| Low Sodium Chicken Broth* | 0kcal/cup |
| Homemade Broth* | 0kcal/cup |
| Liquid Smoke - no additives (2-3 drops) | 0kcal/cup |
| Unsweetened Applesauce | 6kcal/Tbsp |
| *All broth should be free of onions, garlic, seasonings, or spices | |
| Low sodium, moderate protein, and phosphorus options | |
|---|---|
| Low Fat Plain or Vanilla Yogurt | 14 kcal/Tbsp |
| *Avoid any yogurt that uses artificial sweeteners | |
| Low sodium, fat, phosphorus, and protein options | |
|---|---|
| Honey | 62 kcal/Tbsp |
Find the right food for your pet
Hill’s Science Diet provides science-led nutrition to support pets’ ever-changing needs. Our portfolio also includes specialized nutrition for pets’ weight, skin, stomach and more.
