We’ve partnered with ACANA™ to help you feed your pet through all life stages with confidence and help them live a healthy life.
As adorable as those puppy and kitten phases are, they grow up fast! As their bodies change, so do their fuel requirements.
While it’s tempting to keep them on that tasty growth formula a little longer, it’s important to keep an eye on the clock – and the scales.
Firstly, the weighty truth
According to the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia, nearly half of our dogs (41%) and about a third of our cats (32%) are currently overweight.
It’s a staggering stat, but it’s exactly why portion control is so vital.
Instead of just following the bag, chat with your vet about feeding guidelines based on your pet’s ideal weight, not just their current one. Timing the switch to an adult formula is one of the best ways to get ahead of the curve and prevent early weight gain.
When to switch from puppy to adult dog food
The right time to transition depends on your dog’s breed and size. Small and medium breed puppies need more calories, protein and fats to fuel their rapid development, while large and giant breeds need nutrition that sustains slow, steady growth.
Puppy foods are often more nutrient-dense, so it’s important to move to an adult diet at the right time because continuing this diet once they’re fully grown can lead to obesity and joint stress.
Typical transition times
- Small breeds (under 9kg): Mature faster; switch between 10 and 12 months.
- Medium breeds (9–25kg): Usually ready between 12 and 15 months.
- Large breeds (25kg+): Can grow for up to 18–24 months and need puppy-specific formulas longer to support healthy bone development.
Your vet might recommend different timeframes, though, like transitioning to adult food earlier if they have reached 80% of their adult weight and are gaining excess weight, or if your dog needs a specific food for a health condition.
Pro tip: Look for "Life Stage" recommendations on the packaging. For example, ACANA™ recommends that if your pup thrives on ACANA™ Puppy Recipe, the natural progression is to ACANA™ Free-Run Poultry.
How to transition your puppy to an adult diet
To avoid stomach upset or changes in appetite, a slow-and-steady transition is best.
ACANA™ recommends a 10 to 14-day schedule, gradually increasing the ratio of adult food to puppy food. Some dogs may require more time. Your local Petstock Vet can also advise you on a personalised transition schedule.
One thing to watch out for during the switch is that adult food is generally less calorie-dense than puppy or kitten food.
This means the actual volume in the bowl might look different from what you’re used to. Depending on the recipe, you might find yourself scooping a little more or a little less to meet their nutritional needs.
Don't eyeball it! Always check the feeding guidelines on your new food bag to ensure you're hitting the right mark for their weight and activity level.
If your dog is a picky eater, try adding a splash of warm water to the bowl to soften the new kibble and release the aromas.
Dog food for picky or sensitive eaters
If your dog is a picky eater, a single-protein diet can have huge benefits. Once they’re ready for adult food, try ACANA™ limited-ingredient dry dog food in Duck & Pear or Lamb & Apple flavours.
When to switch from kitten to adult cat food
Since cats are obligate carnivores with specific nutritional needs, timing is everything. Most kittens should transition around their first birthday (12 months). However, slow-maturing breeds like Maine Coons may require kitten food for up to 18 months.
Because kitten food is higher in calories and protein to fuel rapid growth, switching too early can stunt development, while switching too late can quickly lead to weight gain and urinary issues.
Recommended kitten to adult cat food transition schedule
When your kitten is ready, use a 10 to 14-day transition to let their digestive enzymes and gut microbiome adapt.
If your cat seems hesitant, you can try bridging the flavours by choosing an adult recipe with similar protein sources (like chicken to chicken) or adding a tiny bit of warm water to enhance the aroma of the new kibble.
Checklist for a successful transition
As you move through those 10-14 days, keep an eye out for these signs of a happy, healthy transition:
- Steady energy levels, not seeming sluggish or too tired
- Firm, consistent stools (no constipation or diarrhoea)
- A shiny coat and clear eyes
- Healthy appetite – not refusing food
When in doubt, ask your vet
Every pet is an individual. While these guidelines cover most furry friends, your Petstock Vet is the best person to provide a personalised feeding plan tailored to your pet’s specific health needs, activity level and body condition score.
Ready to find the perfect bowl for every stage of their journey? Explore the full ACANA™ range, only at Petstock, today.