Many cats are creatures of habit. I purposely steer away from using the term “finicky” because it implies cats are just that way forever and cannot be changed—like they were born with some sort of “finicky” gene. Habits can be changed, and a creature of habit has a chance of changing or learning a new, healthier habit. It may take a little work, but pets can be weaned away from dangerously addictive commercial foods by using bribes—treats offered to entice a pet to eat healthier. My experience has been that when cat owners switch to feeding healthier food, about half of the cats take to the new food immediately. The other half often look at the food, then caterwaul around the kitchen demanding their old food or simply walk away uninterested. Particularly reticent and expressive cats may try to bury the food. These bribes are fine for all cats, but they’re specifically designed for the unwilling half.

Mother’s Little Helpers: Treats as Bribes - If your pet is reluctant to make the switch to its new diet, sometimes a little something extra will coax them to the food bowl. Think of these bribes as tasty condiments to add some zing to their meal! The functional foods listed below can entice your pet, but most of them are also healthful and serve as supplements, providing extra vitamins, proteins, or other nutrients. A heartier cat will love the meats, eggs, and cheeses, while a cat under the weather will greatly appreciate the eggs, olive oil, or yogurt.

Meat slivers (chicken, turkey, beef, lamb, or fish; avoid ham, pork, and tuna products)
A few small pieces of cooked organic liver
A few drops of natural tamari
A few shakes of natural Parmesan cheese
A dollop of tomato sauce
A teaspoon of organic plain yogurt
A spoonful of oil from a jar of olives
A finely chopped olive
A dollop of cottage cheese
A dollop of meat-based baby food
Raw or soft-boiled egg

Try mixing a bit of any of the above bribe foods into the new food or sprinkling it on top. Sometimes an irresistible condiment is all it takes to get a reluctant pet revved up and excited about the new fare. If there’s something you know your cat is wild about, get creative and use just a little bit to get it going. Dogs don’t usually need any coaxing to try the new meals, but any of the bribe foods can be used for dogs, as well.

I wanted to take some time to thank everyone who has contacted me about their experiences with their pets, after they’ve had the opportunity to read my book. Many of you have begun the Whole Pet Diet: Eight Weeks to Great Health for Dogs and Cats, and have been very pleased with the results you’re getting as you witness your own pets miraculous transformations! This book is the definitive guide on how to have a healthy pet, no matter what stage of life your pet is in, and no matter what you’ve been told about overcoming chronic, common problems. My hope is to work with many of you on an ongoing basis and incorporate your experiences and use your journals to compile information for my next book (currently in the works). So- do keep those letters coming in!

It’s been a thrill to hear how so many animals have already benefited from my eight week plan, and to know that you’re all dedicated to improving your pets’ health, and gathering more knowledge.
If you haven’t already picked up a copy - you can find it online at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com, google.com -or even halopets.com.

There are over 25 recipes for making your dog or cat’s food, along with yummy treats, beneficial supplements, and even herbal grooming aids! Not to mention all of the true, heartwarming pet stories about all kinds of animals who were at the “brink of disaster”, but who’s owners were determined to find the cause of the problems, and work with diet to help bring them back.

Last week, I got the great news that Petco Animal Supplies also picked up my book in all of their stores, so it’s been a thrilling experience to see how the popularity of the book has grown.

I even found a lovely entry on Rick Rockhill’s blog, (he’s the senior dog food buyer at Petco, but has his own cats and wants only the best for them) and there’s a photo of us “chowing down” on some Spot’s Stew® together! Check out the link here: http://rickrockhill.blogspot.com/2007_01_01_archive.html

Once you’ve experienced your pet’s great health, I know you’ll accept nothing less. Make the Whole Pet Diet a part of your life and share the good news with friends. I’m always here to work with you to ensure that the plan works for you. Remember to love your pets with wisdom.

Wishing you great health always!