Our kitty is in good condition. Because of a recent cold virus and
subsequent vet visit, we want to change his eating habits to improve
his health risks in the future.
The vet ruled out any health problems - teeth, diabetes, thyroid
imbalance etc.

The problem is his appetite which ranges to both extremes, bordering on
an eating disorder.
He is a free feeder, dry kibble (wellness or eukanuba) from a "kitty
bistro".
History: we adopted him from the pound 4 years ago. He was so vocal and
persistent about wanting food, we got the free feeder to calm him down
and get peace in the household. He likes to be independent and control
his own food supply. His eating behaviour indicates there is definitely
some social or emotional element i.e. he wants us to watch or
acknowledge him, eats when he is nervous or stimulated, etc. He will
*only* eat this dry kibble from the feeder, has never been interested
in any canned food or tempting treats whatsoever.
We have two dachshunds with whom is is very comfortable and interactive
- playing, chasing etc.

Under normal conditions, he eats frequently in small amounts. He is
hefty but not obese. His weight varies a bit according to the season
and how active he is.
When he is upset, as when we are away for 1-2 nights, he *always*
binges and vomits once, leaving a small pile of barfed up kibble to
greet us.
His recent virus caused him to lose his appetite. We tried to tempt him
with a number of things - chicken, turkey, baby food, cheese, salmon
and fish, canned cat food etc., even warming it in the micro wave per
the vets suggestion. No interest, but he is slowly coming around,
eating a bit of his kibble, and is recovering fine.

But for his future health I would like to change his eating habits now.
I am worried if he becomes ill in the future and loses his appetite, it
will be very hard to make sure he gets nutrition. Ideally - I would
like to be able to feed him a varied diet, not just kibble, have him
eat well with us controlling the portions. But how to make that
transition and will it work??? ANY HELP OR SUGGESTIONS WILL BE
APPRECIATED!