Before we dive into practical solutions, it’s important to understand why some pets are picky eaters. A variety of factors can affect your pet's eating habits, including:
Understanding what might be causing your pet’s pickiness will help you address the issue more effectively.
Here are some practical feeding tips to help you get your fussy eater back on track:
Consider changing the number of meals you offer your pet. For adult dogs, feeding once a day can be more effective than multiple smaller meals. This can also work well for dogs that are often distracted by treats or other food sources. Cats, on the other hand, might prefer multiple smaller meals throughout the day.
Be mindful of how much you’re feeding your pet. If your pet is constantly turning down meals, it could be because they’re being overfed with snacks or treats throughout the day. Ensure that you’re not overfeeding and that their meals are appropriate for their size and activity level. Use our feeding guide as a starting point and adjust as needed – some pets may eat less than expected but still maintain a healthy weight.
A quiet and stress-free environment is crucial for picky pets, especially for cats. Cats can be very sensitive to their surroundings, so feeding them away from other animals or behind a closed door can help. Similarly, some pets may prefer eating in the dark or in a calm, private room away from the hustle and bustle of your living room or kitchen.
Especially in warmer weather, food can spoil quickly. If your pet isn’t eating their food within 20-30 minutes, remove it and store it in the fridge for later. This prevents food from becoming stale or unsafe to eat, and it helps encourage your pet to finish their meal during their scheduled mealtime.
Some pets may have strong preferences for the texture of their food. For example, many dogs love chewing on whole bones but may not enjoy ground meat or bone mixes. Or cats may prefer whole meat cubes & fillets over minced raw food options. Experiment with offering different textures or introducing whole bones to see if that sparks their interest.
If your pet is in good health and body condition, a short voluntary fast may not harm them. It can even help reset their appetite. If your dog or cat refuses food for a day, allow them to fast and wait until they show interest again. This can often encourage them to eat when they’re truly hungry.
Pets, especially dogs, may get bored of the same meals after a few days. Offering variety in their diet can keep things exciting and increase their appetite. Try rotating protein sources and offering different mixes to keep mealtimes interesting. You can also try feeding different recipes, like a mix without salmon, as some pets may prefer a change of flavor
If your pet is hesitant to eat their raw food straight up, consider adding some tasty toppers or mixing it with other foods to entice them. You could add a small amount of natural bone broth, freeze dried green tripe, or nutritious meal topper like Powermix or Superfood Crunch to their meal. This can help encourage them to eat, while still offering the nutritional benefits of a raw diet.
If you’re introducing a new food to your pet, do so gradually. For instance, if your dog or cat is hesitant to eat a new raw food mix, you can mix small portions into their favourite raw mixes to gradually get them used to the new flavor. Some pets even prefer products like tripe to be served (as long as your pet is not prone to gulping their food) and may enjoy the cool texture.
If your pet’s fussiness persists despite trying different strategies, it’s important to rule out any underlying medical issues. Dental problems, gastrointestinal discomfort, or allergies can make eating difficult for your pet. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure that there are no health conditions affecting your pet’s appetite.
Feeding a picky pet requires patience and flexibility. The key is to understand your pet’s needs and preferences, while also ensuring they get the nutrients they require to stay healthy. At Raw Essentials, we are committed to providing expert advice and high-quality raw food that meets your pet’s nutritional needs. If you’re struggling with a fussy eater, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team for personalized guidance.