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<h3>From Kibble to Carnivore: How to Transition Your Cat from Dry or Low-Quality Food to a Healthier Diet</h3><figure id="figure-prsxb7kdxmbgrvulh"><img id="prsxb7kdxmbgrvulh" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/481971741/photo/cat-eating.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=aBZ9Lsc4srEP3mvbnudV67k8wEj1Exkypc8ZdWaCxXg=" alt="Cat Eating" title="Cat Eating" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/481971741/photo/cat-eating.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=aBZ9Lsc4srEP3mvbnudV67k8wEj1Exkypc8ZdWaCxXg=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Many cat owners feed their beloved pets dry food or popular supermarket brands like Whiskas, Friskies, or Felix, believing they’re providing something tasty and nutritious. Unfortunately, these convenient options are often full of low-grade ingredients, grains, sugars, and synthetic additives that can take a serious toll on feline health over time. Whether it’s dry kibble or a low-quality wet food, the result is the same: dehydration, poor digestion, and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as urinary tract issues, diabetes, obesity, and kidney failure.The good news? You can dramatically improve your cat’s health and quality of life by transitioning them to a species-appropriate diet—whether that’s high-quality wet food or a balanced raw diet. Cats are obligate carnivores designed to eat meat, moisture-rich foods, and minimal carbohydrates. But transitioning them—especially if they’ve been eating the same food for years—requires patience and a structured approach.&nbsp; Why Transition Away from Dry or Low-Quality Wet Food? Low moisture: Kibble and many supermarket pouches contain 5–15% moisture. Cats, being desert animals, naturally obtain most of their water through food. Chronic dehydration leads to urinary issues, constipation, and kidney stress. Excessive carbohydrates: Dry and low-grade wet foods often contain wheat, corn, soy, and starches to bind or bulk up the food—none of which are appropriate for cats. Poor protein quality: Supermarket brands often use animal by-products and meat meals, which are heavily processed and low in nutritional value. Additives and sugars: These make the food addictive but harmful. Added sugars can contribute to obesity and insulin resistance. &nbsp; The 90–10 Transition Method (and Why It Works) Cats don’t respond well to sudden changes. Not only are they picky eaters, but abrupt food switches can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or food refusal. Gradual transition is key—both to avoid digestive upset and to allow their taste preferences and gut microbiome to adapt.Here’s how to do it:<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;" border="1" data-mce-style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days </td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Old Food</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">New Food</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 1–3</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">90% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">10% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 4–6</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">80% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">20% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 7–9</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">70% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">30% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 10-12</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">60% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">40% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 13-15</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">50% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">50% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 16-18</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">40% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">60% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 19-21</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">30% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">70% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 22-23</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">20% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">80% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 24-25</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">10% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">90% new</td></tr><tr><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">Days 26+</td><td style="width: 33.3325%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.3325%;">0% old</td><td style="width: 33.335%;" data-mce-style="width: 33.335%;">100% new</td></tr></tbody></table> &nbsp; Tip: Mix the foods thoroughly so your cat can’t just pick out the parts they prefer. If your cat resists at any stage, pause and maintain that ratio for a few extra days. It’s better to move slowly than risk your cat refusing food altogether. <figure id="figure-70vm831n4mbgt1znh"><img id="70vm831n4mbgt1znh" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1339097712/photo/ginger-cat-and-a-metal-bowl-with-dry-food-on-the-white-floor-of-the-room.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=7VoUPesVOays7MRtqlIHCtIgVhPPOXMTKI8PbPEH1Pk=" alt="Ginger cat and a metal bowl with dry food on the white floor of the room." title="Ginger cat and a metal bowl with dry food on the white floor of the room." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1339097712/photo/ginger-cat-and-a-metal-bowl-with-dry-food-on-the-white-floor-of-the-room.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=7VoUPesVOays7MRtqlIHCtIgVhPPOXMTKI8PbPEH1Pk=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> What to Switch To? There are two excellent alternatives to dry or low-quality wet food: 1. High-Quality Wet Food Look for brands that use whole meats, have no grains or sugar, and minimal or no synthetic additives. Choose options with high moisture content and clear labelling (e.g., “chicken breast” rather than “meat derivatives”). 2. Balanced Raw Food This is the closest you can get to what cats eat in the wild. A raw diet made from muscle meat, organs, and bone provides natural hydration and optimal nutrition. You can prepare it at home (with guidance and supplements) or buy pre-made balanced raw meals from reputable brands.&nbsp; Ditch Free-Feeding and Schedule Meals One of the biggest hurdles in transitioning from dry food is breaking the free-feeding habit. Many cats are used to having dry food available 24/7 and will not recognize structured meal times. Here's how to break the cycle:Start with two scheduled meals a day. Offer food for 15–30 minutes, then remove it—even if they haven’t eaten. Cats may skip a meal or two at first, but a healthy cat won’t starve themselves. This approach also encourages your cat to eat when food is offered, making it easier to introduce new types.&nbsp; What About Cats Addicted to Kibble or Whiskas-Style Pouches? These foods are often coated with flavor enhancers and sugars to make them irresistible—think fast food for cats. Weaning off can be tough.Tips to ease the transition: Sprinkle freeze-dried raw treats (like chicken or liver) over the new food. Add a bit of tuna juice, clam juice, or meat broth (no onions/salt). Warm the new food slightly to release aromas—never microwave raw. Try various textures: pâté, shredded, minced, mousse. Keep mealtimes calm and consistent. If your cat eats Whiskas or similar wet food, switch to a better-quality wet food first before considering raw. You can still use the 90–10 method for each step. <figure id="figure-r8o6xuesfmbgt2gzx"><img id="r8o6xuesfmbgt2gzx" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1211578070/photo/feeding-cat.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zeZQF0ZmaUcbjugJJjI5C0E81loMGCxiIS7VjWb49m8=" alt="feeding cat" title="feeding cat" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1211578070/photo/feeding-cat.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=zeZQF0ZmaUcbjugJJjI5C0E81loMGCxiIS7VjWb49m8=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure> Why Not Dry Food at All? You might wonder whether it’s okay to leave some dry food “just in case.” But here’s why it’s better to eliminate it completely:Dry food undermines hydration efforts. It encourages grazing and overeating. It keeps your cat addicted to its flavor enhancers and crunchy texture. You’ll end up with partial progress at best. Even the best kibble is still dry, high-carb, and inferior to a moist, meat-based diet.Final Thoughts: It’s Worth It Yes, it takes time and patience. Yes, your cat may protest. But transitioning to a fresh, species-appropriate diet can profoundly impact your cat’s well-being. You’ll likely notice: Shinier coat More energy Fewer vet visits Better digestion and smaller stools Improved hydration and kidney supportYou’re not just feeding your cat—you’re investing in their long-term health. Every step toward better nutrition is a step toward a happier, healthier life for your feline companion.🧡 Martyna Feline Behaviourist &amp; Nutritionist Founder of CatZone <figure id="figure-mjwdqvk6jhmbgt382d" class=""><img id="mjwdqvk6jhmbgt382d" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1364721787/photo/cat-eating-a-raw-chicken-neck-piece-out-of-a-pet-food-dish.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=6cRQlrIQHa3gO-O0stgQlsgbUO8_2rNt6Hh625UKVAU=" alt="Cat eating a raw chicken neck piece out of a pet food dish." title="Cat eating a raw chicken neck piece out of a pet food dish." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1364721787/photo/cat-eating-a-raw-chicken-neck-piece-out-of-a-pet-food-dish.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=6cRQlrIQHa3gO-O0stgQlsgbUO8_2rNt6Hh625UKVAU=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

From Kibble to Carnivore

The kitten sits in the litter box. Scottish kitten pees in her litter box.

<h2>Understanding Cat Litter Problems</h2>For cat owners, maintaining a clean and odor-free litter box is crucial. However, common issues with cat litter can make this task challenging. From tracking to unpleasant smells, these problems can frustrate both cats and their owners. Understanding these issues is the first step to finding effective solutions.<figure id="figure-x2oiozkg8mamola0g"><img id="x2oiozkg8mamola0g" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/685512494/photo/ground-clay-cat-litter-in-plastic-litter-box.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dl7pcc9XgAAWB6byxWQua0nQdEtOySk8BvKCYKrOamA=" alt="Ground clay cat litter in plastic litter-box" title="Ground clay cat litter in plastic litter-box" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/685512494/photo/ground-clay-cat-litter-in-plastic-litter-box.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dl7pcc9XgAAWB6byxWQua0nQdEtOySk8BvKCYKrOamA=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Litter Tracking</h3>One of the most frequent complaints is litter tracking. Cats often drag litter out of the box on their paws, leaving a trail around your home. This not only creates a mess but can also be unsanitary.To combat this, consider using a mat specifically designed to catch litter. Placing a textured mat outside the litter box can help trap particles before they spread further. Additionally, try switching to a heavier litter type, as finer particles tend to stick to paws more easily.<h3>Odor Control</h3>Another common issue is the lingering smell of cat litter. Even with regular cleaning, odors can persist, especially in small spaces. This problem often arises from using low-quality litter or not cleaning the box frequently enough.To tackle odor issues, invest in high-quality, clumping litter that helps absorb moisture and smells more effectively. Additionally, ensure that you scoop the litter box daily and replace the litter regularly. Some litters also come with deodorizing agents that can help keep unpleasant odors at bay.<figure id="figure-kbt6v68njjmamoli6o"><img id="kbt6v68njjmamoli6o" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/17XBILLuVNwi2xdpeXyCmZ6Q4mLOl1MolqueKmdWdxXIuigytmgy3oTGQVDD5RRB.jpeg" alt="cat odor control" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/17XBILLuVNwi2xdpeXyCmZ6Q4mLOl1MolqueKmdWdxXIuigytmgy3oTGQVDD5RRB.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Litter Box Aversion</h3>Cats are particular about their toilet habits, and sometimes they may avoid their litter box altogether. This aversion can stem from various reasons such as an unclean box, an uncomfortable location, or even health issues.If your cat is avoiding the litter box, first ensure that it is clean and placed in a quiet, accessible location. Cats prefer privacy, so avoid placing the box in busy or loud areas. If the problem persists, consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.<h3>Choosing the Right Type of Litter</h3>The type of litter you choose can significantly impact both cleanliness and odor control. With so many options available, selecting the right one for your cat's preferences and your lifestyle is essential.<ul><li>Clay Litter: Popular for its clumping properties but can be dusty.</li><li>Wooden clumping: Known for excellent odor control, cats love it. My personal choice.</li><li>Pine or Corn Litter: Eco-friendly options that offer natural odor absorption.</li></ul><figure id="figure-qz24h5kyvpmamolovs"><img id="qz24h5kyvpmamolovs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/20v2MZj4ZXusbNQwVs5OPXshhAoHykNc8ggxNHTPDMJtBQ2OOmVQWbudq2qqhZwT.jpeg" alt="cat different litters" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/getty/20v2MZj4ZXusbNQwVs5OPXshhAoHykNc8ggxNHTPDMJtBQ2OOmVQWbudq2qqhZwT.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Reducing Dust</h3>Dust from cat litter can cause respiratory problems for both pets and humans. This dust can settle on surfaces around your home and be inhaled by you and your cat.To minimize dust, opt for low-dust or dust-free litters. You might also consider using an enclosed litter box to contain any dust produced when your cat uses the box. Regularly cleaning the area around the litter box will also help reduce dust accumulation.<h3>Conclusion</h3>Tackling common cat litter problems requires understanding the root cause and implementing appropriate solutions. By choosing the right type of litter, maintaining cleanliness, and addressing specific issues like tracking and odor control, you can create a more pleasant environment for both you and your feline friend. Remember that patience and consistency are key when it comes to finding what works best for you and your cat.🧡 Martyna Feline Behaviourist &amp; Nutritionist Founder of CatZone

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From Kibble to Carnivore

Common Cat Litter Problems and Solutions