Transitioning to BARF for Cats
Transitioning Your Cat to a Natural Diet
Transitioning a cat to a natural raw diet is a gentle adaptation for the digestive system, taste preferences, and eating behavior. Cats are very conservative eaters, and their digestive systems are sensitive to sudden changes, so following the right transition protocol is important for their health
Gradual

Main principle:
Start by adding 10–20% raw natural food to the cat’s regular diet.
Every 3–5 days, increase the proportion of raw food while observing the cat’s stool, appetite, energy level, and overall comfort.
When the cat comfortably eats a 50/50 mix - you can transition completely to raw.
Alternate Method
Some cats prefer another approach: offer raw food as a separate meal, while the rest of the day they eat their usual food.
This method avoids mixing tastes and can make the transition smoother. 
First Protein — Start Mild
The best protein sources for introducing raw food are:
  • Turkey
  • Rabbit
  • Chicken (if there are no allergies)
  • Lean beef
  • Hake or Pollock (if the cat enjoys fish flavors)
Organs and offal should be introduced later and in small amounts.
Bones should be given only ground or as part of a properly balanced meat-and-bone mix.
Stability Matters

Feeding “Turkey today, beef tomorrow” is not recommended.
Stick with the same formula for 7–10 days so the cat’s body can fully adapt before introducing another protein source.
Transition Considerations for Different Types of Cats

🐾 Senior Cats (7+ years)

Transitioning is possible, but should be done with care:

  • Use mild proteins and avoid excessive fat.
  • Maintain the correct balance of calcium and phosphorus.
  • Pay attention to kidney health (avoid high phosphorus).
  • Offer smaller, more frequent meals.

Many senior cats regain mobility and interest in life with high-quality protein — preserving muscle mass is key to healthy aging. 


🐾 Kittens

Kittens adapt faster than adults, but their nutritional needs are higher:

  • Feed 3–4 meals per day.
  • Ensure a strict Ca:P balance during the growth period.
  • Provide high protein and fat content.
  • Taurine is essential.

A common mistake is feeding kittens only muscle meat — this leads to poor bone development and nutrient deficiencies. 


🐾 Pregnant and Nursing Cats

This group needs the most nutrient-dense diet:

  • Increased food intake (up to 4–6% of body weight).
  • Added fat and high-quality protein.
  • Important organs for vitamin supply.
  • Careful control of calcium and phosphorus.

Any dietary changes during pregnancy should be made gently, without abrupt shifts. 


🐾 Neutered and Spayed Cats

Neutered cats have a slower metabolism but still require a high level of protein.

Important considerations:

  • Serve portions closer to 2% of body weight to prevent weight gain.
  • Focus on lean proteins and lower fat.
  • High moisture content in raw food helps reduce the risk of urinary tract issues (such as FLUTD).
  • Monitor weight every 2 weeks.

Natural raw food is particularly well suited for neutered cats due to its high moisture and complete protein content.


Summary of the Transition Process

Transitioning your cat to a natural raw diet is a slow, controlled process:

  • Start with one protein source.
  • Gradually increase the raw portion while monitoring stool, appetite, and overall comfort.
  • For seniors — choose gentle formulas.
  • For kittens — ensure strict mineral balance.
  • For pregnant cats — offer nutrient-rich food.
  • For neutered cats — watch fat intake and weigh regularly.

A well-formulated raw diet gives your cat not only a truly natural way of eating but also improves quality and extends the active years of life

Made on
Tilda