Changing your dog or cat’s food can sometimes upset their digestive system if done too quickly. That’s why a gradual transition is essential—it gives their system time to adjust and helps reduce the risk of digestive issues such as loose stools or stomach upset.
When Should I Transition My Puppy from Puppy Food to Adult Dog Food?
There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to moving your puppy from a puppy recipe to an adult formula. Different breeds grow at different rates, which means smaller breeds are usually ready for adult food sooner than larger breeds.
Many ORIJEN and ACANA ranges are formulated to be Biologically Appropriate for all life stages, so a switch may not be necessary. Check the product description for this label—it ensures the diet provides complete nutrition for puppies, adults, and senior dogs.
Recommended Transition Ages by Breed Size:
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Small breeds (<15kg): 8–10 months
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Medium breeds (15–25kg): 12–15 months
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Large breeds (>25kg): 18–24 months
Following these guidelines will help ensure your puppy’s nutritional needs are met as they grow.
When Should I Transition My Kitten from Kitten Food to Adult Cat Food?
Kittens, regardless of breed or size, are generally considered adults at one year of age. At this point, they should be transitioned to adult cat food. A gradual transition will help prevent digestive upset and ensure your cat continues to receive all the nutrients they need for healthy adulthood.
How to Transition Your Dog or Cat to ORIJEN or ACANA
If you’re switching from another brand of food, follow a gradual plan to avoid upsetting your pet’s stomach:
Transitional Feeding Guide:
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Day 1–2: 75% old food + 25% ORIJEN/ACANA
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Day 3–4: 50% old food + 50% ORIJEN/ACANA
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Day 5–6: 25% old food + 75% ORIJEN/ACANA
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Day 7+: 100% ORIJEN/ACANA
Tip: Slow is always better. If your pet seems sensitive, adjust the ratios and extend the transition period. Some pets may need 10–14 days to fully adjust.
Biologically Appropriate Food for All Life Stages
ORIJEN and ACANA formulas are designed to reflect the natural, protein-rich diets dogs and cats evolved to eat. Some of the most popular all-life-stage options include:
Dogs: ORIJEN Original, ORIJEN Six Fish, ORIJEN Tundra, ORIJEN Small Breed Dog, ACANA Free-Run Duck, ACANA Pacifica, ACANA Yorkshire Pork, ACANA Grasslands, ACANA Wild Coast
Cats: ORIJEN Six Fish, ORIJEN Tundra, ACANA Bountiful Catch, ACANA Pacifica
These diets are made from high-quality, fresh animal ingredients and balanced with fruits and vegetables to provide complete nutrition for pets of all ages.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning your pet’s food is an important step to support their digestive health and overall wellbeing. A gradual switch ensures your dog or cat can adjust comfortably to a new diet without stress. By following the feeding guide and selecting a Biologically Appropriate diet, you can help your pet thrive at every stage of life.
