Transitioning your pet to a homemade diet is a big step, and as a pet owner, it’s natural to wonder how you can tell if your furry friend is adjusting well. Whether you’re moving from store-bought kibble or canned food to something made with fresh ingredients, the process can take time. I’ve been there myself with my dog, Max, and I can tell you from experience that it’s a learning curve for both you and your pet.
So how do you know if your pet is on the right track? In this post, I’ll walk you through the key signs that show your pet is adjusting well to their homemade diet, as well as what to keep an eye out for if things aren’t going so smoothly.
1. Healthy Digestion and Regular Bathroom Habits
When I first started feeding Max homemade meals, I was nervous about how his digestive system would react. A sudden change in diet can sometimes lead to stomach upset, but I soon noticed that Max’s bathroom habits became more regular as his body adjusted. Healthy digestion is one of the first signs that your pet is settling into their new diet.
What to Look For: If your pet’s stools are firm, easy to clean up, and they seem to be going to the bathroom regularly (usually 1-2 times a day), that’s a good sign. Soft or watery stools, on the other hand, could mean that the transition is happening too quickly or that something in the food is disagreeing with them.
Tip: Keep a close eye on your pet’s stools for the first few weeks. If you notice any major changes (like frequent diarrhea or constipation), try adjusting the transition process or the ingredients in their meals.
2. Increased Energy Levels
One of the first positive changes I noticed with Max after switching to homemade food was his increased energy levels. He seemed to bounce around the house more and wanted to play longer during our daily walks. Proper nutrition makes a world of difference, and a well-balanced homemade diet can lead to more energy, especially if you’re feeding your pet the right mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
What to Look For: If your pet seems more alert, eager to play, and has a spring in their step, then they’re likely thriving on their new diet. Keep an eye out for any signs of sluggishness or lethargy, which could indicate that the food isn’t providing enough of the nutrients they need.
Tip: If you notice more pep in your pet’s step, that’s a great sign that the diet is working. However, be sure to check in with your vet to ensure the balance is right, especially if they have specific health concerns.
3. A Shiny, Soft Coat
Another early sign that your pet is adjusting well to homemade food is an improvement in the quality of their coat. I’ll never forget the day I noticed Max’s fur had become shinier and softer after a few weeks on homemade food. It turns out, a diet rich in healthy fats like omega-3s from fish oils, as well as proteins, can do wonders for your pet’s skin and coat.
What to Look For: A healthy, shiny coat is a good indicator that your pet is getting the right nutrients. Look for reduced itching, fewer flakes of dandruff, and a soft, glossy coat. If your pet’s fur still seems dull or they’re scratching a lot, they might need an adjustment in their diet.
Tip: Adding fish oil or flaxseed to your pet’s meals can help improve their coat. Just be sure to talk to your vet about the right dosage.
4. Better Weight Management
If you’ve been concerned about your pet’s weight—whether they’re too thin or a little overweight—homemade food can be a game-changer. When Max started eating homemade meals, I noticed he reached a healthier weight over time. A good homemade diet, with the right portion sizes, can help your pet maintain an ideal body weight.
What to Look For: A pet that’s adjusting well to a homemade diet should be at a healthy weight—not too heavy and not too thin. You should be able to feel your pet’s ribs with a light touch, and they should have a defined waistline. If your pet is losing or gaining weight unexpectedly, it might be time to adjust portion sizes or ingredients.
Tip: Check your pet’s weight regularly, and keep track of their body condition score (BCS). Your vet can help guide you in adjusting portion sizes to keep your pet at a healthy weight.
5. Improved Appetite and Food Enjoyment
At first, Max was a little hesitant about his new meals, but after a couple of weeks, he was excited every time he saw his food bowl. If your pet is adjusting well to their homemade diet, they should be excited about mealtime and finish their meals with enthusiasm. A sudden drop in appetite, or a refusal to eat, could be a sign that something isn’t quite right.
What to Look For: Your pet should show enthusiasm when it’s time for their meals. If they seem eager to eat and clean their bowl, that’s a good sign they’re enjoying their food. On the other hand, if your pet is constantly turning up their nose at their meals, you may need to change up the ingredients or consult your vet.
Tip: Try different recipes and ingredients if your pet seems to lose interest in their food. Some pets are picky eaters, but they usually become more excited about food once they get used to it.
6. Less Gas and Bloating
One of the things I was concerned about when switching Max to homemade food was the potential for gas and bloating. Fortunately, as his body adjusted to his new meals, I noticed he had less gas and seemed more comfortable after meals. This is another great sign that your pet is adapting well.
What to Look For: If your pet’s gas decreases and they don’t seem bloated or uncomfortable after eating, that’s a positive sign. A little bit of gas here and there is normal, but excessive gas, burping, or signs of discomfort can signal that something in the diet might not be sitting well with them.
Tip: If you notice excess gas or bloating, check the ingredients in your pet’s meals. Some foods, like beans or cruciferous vegetables, can cause extra gas, so you may need to adjust their meals accordingly.
7. Less Itching or Skin Problems
For pets with sensitive skin or food allergies, homemade food can sometimes be a godsend. Max, for example, had a history of itching and dry skin, but after we switched to homemade food, I noticed a significant improvement. When the diet is right, pets with skin issues often see fewer flare-ups and less irritation.
What to Look For: If your pet seems to scratch less and their skin looks healthier, that’s a great sign they’re adjusting well to their new food. Dry, flaky skin or constant scratching may indicate that your pet isn’t getting the right balance of nutrients.
Tip: Include omega-3 fatty acids in your pet’s meals, as they can help soothe itchy skin. Talk to your vet if your pet has ongoing skin issues to ensure the homemade food is meeting their needs.
Final Thoughts: Keep an Eye on the Details
The signs of a successful transition to homemade food are generally easy to spot, but every pet is different. While Max adjusted quickly to his new diet, other pets might take a little longer or show different reactions. The key is to watch for these signs and stay in touch with your vet to ensure everything is on track.
If your pet is adjusting well—enjoying their food, maintaining a healthy weight, and showing more energy—you’re likely on the right path. But if you’re seeing signs of discomfort, it might be time to tweak the recipe or transition more slowly. The goal is to give your pet the best possible nutrition while keeping them happy and healthy, and with a little patience and monitoring, you’ll get there!