- What usually causes picky eating in pets?
- How can pet owners tell if it’s fussiness or something health-related?
- Are some breeds or life stages more prone to picky eating?
- What are your go-to tips for switching food or introducing new meals?
- What mistakes should pet parents avoid when dealing with a fussy eater?
- Are there any trendy feeding approaches you’d warn people about?
- What’s a practical step owners can try this week to help improve eating habits?
Many pet parents worry when their dogs or cats turn up their noses at mealtime. But is it genuine fussiness – or are we, as owners, part of the problem? We sat down with the team from LittleAngels Pet Nutrition to unpack the real reasons behind picky eating, how to tell if your pet’s behaviour signals a deeper issue, and what practical steps you can take to build healthier eating habits – no bribery required.
What usually causes picky eating in pets?
The main cause of picky eating in pets is often the parents themselves. Many pet owners tend to humanize their pets and give them human characteristics, which can lead to fussy eating. For example, if a pet owner is too quick to switch foods or give in to their pet’s demands, it can create a picky eater. Additionally, if pet owners are not persistent in finding the right food or not transitioning their pet properly to a new food, it can also lead to picky eating.
There is a small proportion of pets that are truly fussy eaters, but most of the time, it’s a matter of the pet owners not persisting in finding the right food or not transitioning their pet properly to a new food. Pet owners should also be aware that cats are more prone to picky eating than dogs; cats’ taste receptors are more heightened than dogs’, making them more finicky about their food.
How can pet owners tell if it’s fussiness or something health-related?
You need to look at the bigger picture. Is your pet still energetic, playful, and behaving normally? If so, and they’re just leaving food occasionally, they may not be hungry – and that’s okay. I always tell clients to check their pet’s weight and body condition score. Don’t force them to eat if they’re self-regulating.
But if there’s weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, or changes in toilet habits, it might be something more serious. Try offering their favourite food – something high-value like chicken or beef mince. If they still refuse it, it’s time for a vet visit. Cats, in particular, are notorious for hiding illness until it’s quite advanced. Dogs usually show signs earlier. That’s why it’s vital to monitor things like appetite, energy levels, and especially bathroom behaviour.
Are Some Breeds or Life Stages More Prone to Picky Eating?
Yes, senior pets tend to be fussier. Much like elderly humans, they become set in their ways – not just with food, but also where they sleep or how they interact. You’ll notice older pets being more selective with their proteins.
Breed-wise, it’s not so much about the breed as it is about the pet parenting style. Smaller breeds like Pomeranians or Schnauzers are often more humanised, and their diets tend to lack variety. That limited exposure can make their digestive systems more sensitive, contributing to picky eating habits. Larger breeds like German Shepherds, because they’re more active and often less pampered, are typically more flexible with food.
What are your go-to tips for switching food or introducing new meals?
If your pet is generally healthy, you can use a gradual transition approach. Start with 80% of the current food and 20% of the new one. Then move to 60/40, then 50/50, and so on until it’s 100% the new food. It’s a straightforward percentage-based method.
For fussier or more sensitive pets, I suggest extending the transition period. Stay on each ratio a bit longer – for instance, stick with 80/20 for a few days, then 70/30 for another few days. This gives their system time to adjust and allows you to monitor for any reactions.
For pets with serious health issues like pancreatitis or cancer, we switch ingredients one at a time. We might introduce liver first, then add veggies slowly. That way, we can spot exactly what’s triggering a reaction instead of throwing in everything at once.
What mistakes should pet parents avoid when dealing with a fussy eater?
The biggest mistake is giving in too easily. Of course, if your pet is sick or dealing with a medical condition, that’s different – then, you feed them whatever they’ll eat to maintain their strength. But for healthy pets? Let hunger work for you.
A common problem is free feeding – leaving food out all day. That means your pet never gets truly hungry and has no motivation to try new food. If they still have access to their “comfort food,” why would they try something else? Removing free feeding and introducing structured meal times helps guide them toward healthier eating habits.
Are there any trendy feeding approaches you’d warn people about?
Yes – vegan diets for pets are a big one. I fully support humans choosing whatever dietary lifestyle they prefer, but pets don’t have that choice. They are carnivores by nature, and denying them meat-based protein isn’t fair or biologically appropriate.
Another trend I’m wary of is feeding pets only one meal a day. It’s being promoted a lot on social media, but it doesn’t suit every dog. Active dogs might manage, but for large breeds, it can overwhelm their stomach. Also, pets with conditions like diabetes can’t go that long without food – their meals must be timed carefully. One-size-fits-all advice just doesn’t work in pet nutrition.
What’s a practical step owners can try this week to help improve eating habits?
Introduce variety. Don’t feed the same brand or type of food every day. Variety helps build gut diversity, which boosts immunity and overall health. Even just rotating between different kibbles or adding some fresh food can make a big difference.
Research shows that pets fed diverse diets have healthier microbiomes, and that shows in their poop. It’s a simple step – change up the food, try different ingredients or brands, and avoid feeding the exact same thing for years on end.
Picky eating in pets is a common issue that can be addressed with patience, persistence, and the right approach. By understanding the causes of picky eating, monitoring a pet’s health, and avoiding common mistakes, pet owners can help their pets develop healthy eating habits. By working with a veterinarian or a qualified pet nutritionist, pet owners can determine the best diet for their pet and ensure they receive the nutrients they need for optimal health.
About Venusha
Pet Nutritionist
Venusha [known as V] is a certified pet nutrition coach that brings her training in microbiology and cellular biology to the field of pet nutrition. Her focus is on empowering pet parents to understand how to feed their pets thereby impacting longevity and wellness. She works with healthy pets as well as pets diagnosed with medical conditions. V has 4 pets who have autoimmune conditions and living well past their prognosis due to their natural diet.You can book an online consult with V through https://calendly.com/littleangels-consults or contact her through her social media platforms.
