I think by now everyone knows that I feed twice a day. Each and every cat get his or her correct MEASURED amount and type of food and no one eats with a buddy . I know IMMEDIATELY if someone is off their feed and therefore possibly not feeling well. They neither gain nor lose weight because they are getting their correct amount (and yes it varies from cat to cat). At this point in their lives all 13 cats eat Hill's prescription c/d dry, (Willow and Fern get 1 spoonful of can mixed in) but if and when I need to feed any other type, the switch can be easily attained.

The first few meals will be the hardest because the cats are used to being able to go back any time they want for more. So do not worry when they do not finish their first meals. By the third day or so they WILL start to understand that it is "eat now or be hungry for the next 12 hours". Every cat who came here had to make the switch and they all managed.
Canned food would make a good first meal and then canned mixed with their dry until it is all dry (or whatever you normally feed). The 2 that have the can mix will not eat plain dry, so this is why I mix it.

I think your decision is a wise one (IMO).