Caring for your cat means more than just love and attention—it’s about serving them the right nutrition to support a long, healthy, and vibrant life. Among the rising stars in the premium pet food industry, Smalls has earned a reputation for its fresh, human-grade ingredients and convenient delivery system. But knowing how to serve Smalls cat food properly can make all the difference in maximizing your pet’s enjoyment and health benefits.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about serving Smalls cat food—from understanding its unique offering to mastering portion sizes, storage, transition strategies, and more. Whether you’re a new Smalls subscriber or considering switching, this article will equip you with the essential knowledge to serve your feline companion with confidence.
What Is Smalls Cat Food?
Smalls is a direct-to-consumer fresh pet food brand specializing in providing high-quality, human-grade meals for cats and dogs. Unlike traditional kibble or canned food that may sit on shelves for months, Smalls delivers fresh cat food straight to your door, typically frozen for freshness and ease of storage.
The brand emphasizes transparency, listing real ingredients like chicken, turkey, white fish, and organ meats—never fillers, artificial preservatives, or mystery by-products. All recipes are formulated by veterinary nutritionists and cooked in USDA-inspected kitchens, ensuring safety and nutritional adequacy.
The Two Main Types of Smalls Cat Food
Smalls offers two distinct product lines to accommodate different preferences and dietary needs:
- Fresh Frozen — Made with 100% real animal protein, gently cooked and flash-frozen to preserve nutrients. Ideal for cats who thrive on a raw or minimally processed diet.
- Freeze-Dried — Lightweight, shelf-stable meals that rehydrate quickly with water. These are excellent for travel or households with limited freezer space.
Each formula is tailored to replicate a cat’s natural carnivorous diet, rich in protein and moisture while being low in carbohydrates—critical for urinary, digestive, and metabolic health.
Step-by-Step Guide to Serving Smalls Cat Food
Serving Smalls properly ensures your cat gets the maximum nutritional value and enjoys every bite. Follow these steps to streamline your feeding routine.
1. Choose the Right Formula for Your Cat
Not all Smalls recipes are identical. The brand offers three primary poultry-based formulas:
| Recipe | Main Protein | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Boneless chicken breast | Cats new to fresh food or sensitive stomachs |
| Turkey | Turkey, turkey liver | Allergies to chicken or higher iron needs |
| White Fish | Whitefish, fish oil | Cats needing omega-3 support or low-purine diets |
When starting out, consult your veterinarian—especially if your cat has chronic conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or food sensitivities. Smalls offers a helpful quiz on their website to help match your cat with the ideal formula.
2. Thawing and Preparation
Proper thawing preserves the food’s texture, taste, and nutritional integrity.
For Fresh Frozen Smalls:
- Transfer the required number of portions from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before feeding.
- Allow 8–12 hours for full thawing.
- Never thaw at room temperature, as this increases the risk of bacterial growth.
- Once thawed, Smalls should be used within 48 hours.
For Freeze-Dried Smalls:
- Measure the recommended portion size (typically 1–2 cubes per serving).
- Add warm (not boiling) water—about 1 part water to 1 part food.
- Let sit for 3–5 minutes until fully rehydrated.
- Stir gently and serve.
Tip: Warming the food slightly—especially in colder environments—can boost aroma and make it more appealing to picky eaters.
3. Determine the Correct Serving Size
Portion control is critical when serving fresh food. Too much can lead to weight gain; too little may cause nutritional deficiencies.
Smalls provides a detailed feeding calculator on their website, factoring in your cat’s:
- Weight
- Age
- Activity level
- Health conditions
As a general guideline, however, the average adult cat (8 to 10 lbs) requires:
- 1.5 to 2.5 oz of fresh food per meal
- Two meals per day
For example, a 9-pound moderately active cat might receive two 2-ounce portions daily (4 oz total). Always start with Smalls’ recommended amount and adjust based on your cat’s body condition and energy levels.
4. Serve at the Right Temperature
Cats have incredibly sensitive palates. Temperature can significantly influence their willingness to eat.
- Ideal serving temperature: around 98°F to 102°F (body temperature).
- You can gently warm thawed food by placing the sealed pouch in warm water for a few minutes.
- Avoid microwaving directly in plastic containers unless labeled microwave-safe.
- Do not serve food straight from the fridge or freezer—it can be unpalatable and even cause stomach upset.
5. Monitor Your Cat’s Reaction
Once you begin serving Smalls cat food, keep an eye on several key areas:
- Digestive Health: Monitor stool quality. Transitioning to fresh food may cause temporary changes—expect softer stool initially, but it should normalize within 1–2 weeks.
- Energy Levels: Better nutrition often translates to increased playfulness, alertness, and coat shine.
- Appetite: Observe if your cat eats the entire portion. Loss of interest may signal the need to adjust protein type or serving temperature.
If negative symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy) persist beyond 7 days, consult your veterinarian.
Transitioning Your Cat to Smalls: A Gradual Approach
Switching from kibble or canned food to a fresh diet like Smalls should never be done overnight. A sudden change can stress your cat’s digestive system.
Why a Gradual Transition Matters
A cat’s gut microbiome adapts slowly to new foods. A rushed switch may cause:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Nutrient malabsorption
To ensure a smooth transition, follow a 7- to 10-day plan.
7-Day Transition Schedule
- Days 1–2: Mix 25% Smalls with 75% current food.
- Days 3–4: Mix 50% Smalls with 50% current food.
- Days 5–6: Mix 75% Smalls with 25% current food.
- Day 7: Serve 100% Smalls cat food.
Some sensitive cats may benefit from a 14-day extended transition, adjusting ratios more gradually.
Pro Tip: Serve the mixed food at room temperature or slightly warmed to encourage acceptance. If your cat refuses the mix, try feeding Smalls in a separate meal before gradually blending.
Special Considerations for Kitten and Senior Transition
- Kittens: Growing kittens have higher caloric and protein needs. Smalls offers kitten-specific guidelines—typically feeding 3–4 smaller meals per day until 6 months of age.
- Senior Cats: Older cats may have dental issues or slower metabolisms. Warm Smalls slightly and consider more frequent but smaller portions to improve intake.
Storage Solutions: How to Store Smalls Properly
Proper storage ensures freshness, prevents contamination, and extends shelf life.
Freezing Fresh Frozen Smalls
- Keep packages sealed and store at 0°F or below.
- Smalls typically arrives in an insulated box with dry ice—immediately transfer to your freezer.
- The food remains fresh for up to 90 days in the freezer.
- To organize, label bags with “date received” and “best by” (usually 3 months from arrival).
Refrigeration After Thawing
- Once defrosted, store in the fridge at 40°F or lower.
- Consume within 48 hours.
- Use airtight containers to preserve moisture and prevent odor absorption.
Freeze-Dried Smalls Storage
- Keep unopened packages in a cool, dry place: ideal temperature is 50–70°F.
- Avoid humid areas like under the sink.
- After opening, reseal tightly or transfer to a glass jar with a lid.
- Use within 30 days of opening for best quality.
Warning: Never leave rehydrated food out at room temperature for more than 30 minutes. Bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli can grow rapidly.
Feeding Strategies for Multi-Cat Households
Sharing your home with more than one cat? Serving Smalls in a multi-cat setting requires careful planning to prevent food rivalry, overeating, or underfeeding.
Separate Feeding Stations
- Place food bowls in different rooms or elevated spaces to reduce competition.
- Use timed feeders or feeding schedules to space out meals.
- Label each bowl with the cat’s name and food type to prevent mix-ups.
Potential for Cross-Contamination
If one cat has food allergies or medical needs, avoid communal bowls. Wash food dishes after each use with hot, soapy water.
Budgeting with Smalls
With multiple cats, costs can add up. Consider the following to manage expenses:
- Subscribe to Smalls’ autoship for discounts.
- Opt for bulk orders when available.
- Track feeding habits to avoid over-portioning.
Smalls offers customized plans, so input each cat’s profile separately for accurate recommendations.
Health Benefits of Serving Smalls Cat Food
Beyond convenience, serving Smalls can significantly improve your cat’s health. Numerous testimonials and veterinary nutritionists praise its impact on:
Hydration and Urinary Health
Fresh food contains around 70–75% moisture, unlike dry kibble (around 10%). This high moisture content supports overall hydration, reducing the risk of:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD)
- Chronic kidney disease
Cats often don’t drink enough water on their own—feeding moisture-rich Smalls helps close that gap naturally.
Improved Coat and Skin Condition
The inclusion of animal-based fats and omega fatty acids (especially in the White Fish recipe) supports:
- Shinier coats
- Reduced shedding
- Healthier skin with fewer flakes or irritations
Many users report visible improvements in coat quality within 4–6 weeks.
Digestive Wellness
Because Smalls avoids grains, fillers, and artificial additives, it’s easier for cats to digest. High-quality proteins are broken down efficiently, leading to:
- Firmer stools
- Less odor
- Reduced vomiting or regurgitation
Weight Management
Cats on a high-protein, low-carb diet like Smalls tend to maintain lean muscle mass and manage weight more effectively. This is especially important for indoor cats with low activity levels.
Common Mistakes When Serving Smalls Cat Food
Even with the best intentions, pet parents can make errors that reduce the benefits of premium food.
1. Skipping the Transition Phase
Jumping straight to 100% Smalls may shock the digestive system. Always follow the gradual mixing method.
2. Overfeeding
Fresh food is more nutrient-dense than kibble. Overfeeding—even slightly—can lead to obesity. Measure portions using a kitchen scale or the provided scoops.
3. Improper Storage
Leaving thawed food out too long, refreezing thawed portions, or storing freeze-dried food in humid areas compromises food safety.
4. Inconsistent Feeding Schedules
Cats thrive on routine. Irregular meal times may cause anxiety, overeating, or digestive issues. Aim for consistent feeding windows (e.g., 7 AM and 7 PM).
5. Mixing with Low-Quality Foods
Avoid combining Smalls with low-quality kibble or table scraps. Doing so can dilute nutritional benefits and introduce allergens or contaminants.
Customizing Smalls for Special Needs
Every cat is unique. Smalls allows for impressive customization in their subscription model.
Cats with Medical Conditions
- Diabetes: Low-carb, high-protein fresh food like Smalls helps stabilize blood sugar. Consult your vet before switching.
- Kidney Disease: The White Fish formula, lower in phosphorus than poultry options, may suit cats with early-stage kidney concerns.
- Food Allergies: Single-protein sources simplify allergen identification. Eliminate other proteins during transition.
Custom Portion and Delivery Plans
During subscription setup, you specify:
- Number of cats
- Each cat’s weight, age, activity
- Feeding preferences (frequency, portion size)
- Delivery frequency (every 2–8 weeks)
The system then calculates exactly how much food to send, minimizing waste and ensuring freshness.
Is Smalls Worth the Investment?
While Smalls is pricier than standard kibble, its benefits often justify the cost.
Price Comparison (as of 2024):
| Product Type | Avg. Monthly Cost (1 Cat) |
|————–|—————————-|
| Kibble (Premium) | $15–$25 |
| Canned Food | $30–$50 |
| Smalls (Fresh Frozen) | $60–$85 |
| Freeze-Dried Smalls | $50–$75 |
However, long-term savings may come from:
- Fewer vet visits due to improved health
- Reduced need for supplements
- Lower risk of chronic diseases
Many pet owners report that their cats eat less volume of Smalls while feeling more satisfied—thanks to its high satiety from real protein.
Tips from Real Smalls Users
Don’t just take the brand’s word for it—listen to fellow cat parents:
- “I warmed the food slightly in warm water—my finicky cat gobbled it up!”
- “We started with Turkey for our older cat with a sensitive stomach. No more hairballs!”
- “Use silicone muffin tins to pre-portion and freeze individual servings—so convenient!”
Consider joining online communities or Smalls’ social media groups for peer advice and meal hacks.
Final Thoughts: Serving Smalls with Confidence
Serving Smalls cat food isn’t just about opening a pouch or adding water—it’s about understanding your cat’s biology, preferences, and nutritional needs. By following best practices for serving, storing, and transitioning, you can make a positive, lasting impact on your feline’s quality of life.
Take time to observe your cat’s response. Adjust portion sizes, experiment with warming techniques, and consult your vet when needed. Embrace the journey toward fresh, species-appropriate nutrition, and you’ll likely see the benefits unfold in your cat’s energy, coat, and overall well-being.
Smalls makes premium cat feeding accessible and tailored to your lifestyle. With proper knowledge, serving it becomes not just easy—but deeply rewarding. Your cat deserves the best. With Smalls, you’re not just feeding them dinner—you’re nourishing a healthier, happier future.
What is Smalls Cat Food and how is it different from other cat foods?
Smalls Cat Food is a premium pet food brand that offers fresh, human-grade meals tailored to the nutritional needs of cats. Unlike traditional kibble or canned food that often contains fillers, artificial preservatives, and low-quality ingredients, Smalls emphasizes real, whole ingredients such as humanely raised meats, organ meats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Their recipes are designed to mimic a cat’s natural diet, being high in animal protein and moisture while low in carbohydrates.
The brand offers two primary formats: Fresh and Freeze-Dried. The Fresh option is delivered refrigerated and ready to serve, while the Freeze-Dried version requires rehydration but offers convenience and long shelf life. Smalls also customizes meal plans based on a cat’s age, weight, activity level, and health goals, providing a personalized feeding experience. This focus on freshness, customization, and transparency sets Smalls apart from mass-produced cat food options.
How should I introduce Smalls Cat Food to my cat’s diet?
When introducing Smalls Cat Food, it’s crucial to transition gradually to avoid digestive upset. Begin by mixing a small amount of Smalls—about 25% of the total meal—with your cat’s current food. Over the course of 7 to 10 days, slowly increase the proportion of Smalls while decreasing the old food. This gradual shift allows your cat’s digestive system to adapt and reduces the risk of diarrhea or refusal to eat.
Monitor your cat closely during the transition for changes in appetite, stool consistency, and energy levels. Some cats may adjust quickly, while others might be hesitant due to the new texture or smell. Warming the food slightly or mixing in a bit of warm water can enhance aroma and appeal. If your cat refuses the new food after several days, consider extending the transition period or consulting your veterinarian for guidance.
How much Smalls Cat Food should I feed my cat each day?
The amount of Smalls Cat Food your cat needs depends on their weight, age, activity level, and metabolism. As a general guideline, adult cats require approximately 2–3 ounces of food per 5 pounds of body weight daily when feeding the Fresh formula. Smalls provides an online feeding calculator that customizes portion sizes based on your cat’s specific details, helping ensure they receive the right balance of nutrients without overfeeding.
For kittens, pregnant, or nursing cats, higher caloric intake is necessary, and feeding frequency may increase to three or four times per day. Senior cats or those with health conditions may need adjusted portions. It’s important to assess your cat’s body condition regularly and adjust portions accordingly. If you are unsure about the correct amount, consult with your veterinarian to create a feeding plan aligned with your cat’s health goals.
Can I mix Smalls Fresh and Freeze-Dried formulas together?
Yes, Smalls Fresh and Freeze-Dried formulas can be safely mixed together, and many cat owners find success blending both for added variety and convenience. Combining the two can provide the benefits of fresh, moisture-rich meals with the long shelf life and portability of freeze-dried food. This approach can also ease transitions between formats or help stretch fresh portions during busy weeks.
When mixing, rehydrate the freeze-dried food according to the package instructions before combining it with the fresh option to ensure proper texture and hydration. Begin with a 50/50 ratio and adjust based on your cat’s preference and digestive tolerance. This flexibility allows pet parents to customize meals while maintaining high nutritional standards, promoting better palatability and hydration for cats who may be reluctant drinkers.
How do I properly store and handle Smalls Cat Food?
Smalls Fresh Cat Food should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and used within 5 days of opening. The food arrives in vacuum-sealed packaging to preserve freshness, and once opened, it’s important to seal any unused portions tightly or transfer them to an airtight container. If you receive more food than you can refrigerate, you may freeze portions for up to 3 months, though texture may slightly change upon thawing.
Smalls Freeze-Dried Cat Food should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Once rehydrated, any unused portion should be treated as fresh food and refrigerated, consumed within 24 hours. Always use clean bowls and utensils when serving to prevent bacterial contamination. Proper storage ensures food safety and maintains the high quality of ingredients Smalls is known for.
Is Smalls Cat Food suitable for cats with allergies or sensitivities?
Smalls Cat Food can be a suitable option for cats with food sensitivities due to its limited-ingredient recipes and avoidance of common allergens like corn, soy, wheat, and artificial additives. The brand uses single animal protein sources—for example, turkey or chicken—which makes it easier to identify and eliminate dietary triggers. Additionally, the emphasis on human-grade, natural ingredients can reduce exposure to contaminants or low-quality fillers that may exacerbate sensitivities.
If your cat has a diagnosed food allergy, it’s essential to choose a Smalls recipe that avoids the specific allergen. The brand’s transparency in ingredient sourcing and preparation allows pet owners to make informed choices. However, every cat is different, so it’s recommended to introduce new proteins one at a time and monitor closely for reactions such as itching, gastrointestinal upset, or changes in coat health. Consult your veterinarian if your cat has severe allergies.
How does Smalls Cat Food support feline hydration and urinary health?
Smalls Cat Food, especially the Fresh formula, has a high moisture content—typically between 70% and 80%—which significantly contributes to a cat’s daily hydration needs. Since cats have a low thirst drive and often don’t drink enough water, feeding moist food is an effective way to increase fluid intake. Proper hydration supports kidney function, aids digestion, and helps prevent urinary tract issues such as crystals or infections.
The freeze-dried option, when rehydrated with water before serving, also boosts moisture levels in the diet. Smalls avoids excessive minerals like magnesium and phosphorus that can contribute to urinary stone formation, and the balanced pH of their recipes is designed to promote urinary tract health. Combined with consistent access to fresh water, feeding Smalls can be a proactive step in maintaining your cat’s long-term urinary and kidney wellness.