How to Transition Your Dog or Cat to a Raw Diet

 

  

What to Expect and Tips for a Smooth Transition

Editor's Note: Originally published in 2023. Updated in June 2026 to reflect current information and answer some of the most common questions we hear from pet parents.

One of the questions we hear most often is:

"What's the best way to transition my dog or cat to raw?"

The good news is that most pets transition beautifully with a little patience and a plan.

For some pets, the change is smooth and uneventful. For others, there may be a short adjustment period while their digestive system adapts to a new way of eating.

Every pet is different, and there isn't one "right" way to make the switch.

Why Do Pet Parents Choose Raw?

Every family has their own reasons for exploring raw feeding.

Some are looking for minimally processed options. Others are interested in species-appropriate nutrition or simply want more variety in their pet's bowl.

Whatever your reason, it's important to remember that there are many ways to feed your pet well. Our goal is simply to help you find what works best for your individual dog or cat.

Two Ways to Transition

A Faster Transition

Healthy adult pets with no underlying medical conditions may be able to switch directly from one diet to another.

Some pet parents choose to feed their pet's last kibble meal in the evening and offer a raw meal the following day.

A Gradual Transition

Senior pets, picky eaters, and animals with health concerns often benefit from a slower approach.

Start by introducing small amounts of raw food and gradually increasing the proportion over several days or weeks.

There's no prize for being the fastest.

The best transition is the one your pet handles comfortably.

Start With Simple Proteins

Many pet parents begin with proteins such as:

• Turkey

• Chicken

• Rabbit

These proteins are often well tolerated and provide a gentle introduction to raw feeding.

That said, every pet is different. Some dogs and cats may do better with alternative proteins.

Supporting Digestion During the Transition

Any dietary change can temporarily affect the gut microbiome.

For that reason, some pet parents choose to support the transition with probiotics, digestive enzymes, or raw goat's milk.

At Poochie Moochie, some of our favourite options include:

• Adored Beast Healthy Gut
• Adored Beast Love Bugs
• Raw goat's milk

These products can be helpful tools while the body adapts to dietary changes.

If you'd like to learn more about probiotics and how they support digestive health, we've explored the topic in more detail in our article, Probiotics for Dogs and Cats: What Pet Parents Should Know..

What Changes Might You Notice Over Time?

Every animal is unique, and no two pets respond exactly the same.

Many pet parents report improvements such as:

• Smaller stools.

• Better breath.

• Healthy skin and coat.

• Less shedding.

• Increased enthusiasm at mealtime.

Of course, results vary from pet to pet, and nutrition is only one piece of the wellness puzzle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mix kibble and raw?

Many pet parents successfully combine feeding methods. There are different opinions on the best approach, and what works best often depends on the individual pet and family.

How long does the transition take?

Some pets adapt within days, while others may take several weeks.

Patience is key.

Which protein should I start with?

Turkey, chicken, and rabbit are common starting points because they're generally well tolerated and lower in fat.

Can cats transition to raw?

Yes.

Cats can transition to raw, although they often prefer a slower approach and may require extra patience.

When should I contact my veterinarian?

Please seek veterinary care promptly if your pet experiences:

• Repeated vomiting.

• Bloody diarrhea.

• Severe lethargy.

• Signs of dehydration.

• Abdominal pain.

• Refusal to eat or drink.

• Symptoms lasting longer than 24 hours.

The Bottom Line

Transitioning your dog or cat to raw doesn't have to be overwhelming.

Most pets do very well with a little patience, a thoughtful approach, and the willingness to adjust based on their individual needs.

At Poochie Moochie, we're passionate about helping pet parents feel confident when making dietary changes. Whether you're feeding raw, kibble, canned food, or a combination of approaches, our goal is always the same:

Helping your pet thrive.

Because healthy pets and informed pet parents make a pretty great team.