Raw feeding can be very daunting for beginners! You probably have plenty of questions that you need answered before making any changes to your cats diet. And we are here to help! Whether you find yourself searching "Is raw meat good for cats?" or "How much raw food do I feed my cat?" we have the answers to all of your raw feeding questions.
In recent years, feeding a raw food diet has become a growing pet health trend for pet parents looking for a more healthy alternative to processed commercial pet foods. Raw cat food is a diet that mimics the natural diet of cats in the wild, primarily consisting of raw meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables. It's gaining popularity due to the belief that it provides a more natural and nutritious diet for cats. If you're unsure about where to start when making the switch to a raw food diet, our simple guide has got you covered.
Benefits of Raw Cat Food
- Nutrient-dense: Raw meat contains high-quality protein and essential fatty acids.
- Digestive health: Raw food can be easier to digest for some cats, leading to improved stool quality.
- Dental health: Chewing on raw bones can help keep teeth clean.
- Weight management: A well-balanced raw diet can help maintain a healthy weight.
- Allergy Relief: Appropriate whole-food diets are anti-inflammatory by nature. A whole-food, raw diet may help reduce and relieve symptoms for cats with allergies.
- Healthier Coat and Skin: An appropriate raw food diet can provide high-quality protein and unaltered fats, resulting in clearer cat eyes, shinier coat, and healthier skin.
Risks and Considerations
- Pathogens: Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria, parasites, or toxins. Proper handling and storage are crucial.
- Nutrient imbalances: Without careful planning, a raw diet can be deficient in certain nutrients.
- Cost: Raw food can be more expensive than commercial cat food.
- Transition: Switching to a raw diet should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset.
Creating a Balanced Raw Diet
- Prey Model: A common approach is to mimic the prey model, which involves feeding your cat a variety of raw meats, bones, organs, and edible vegetables in proportions similar to what a cat would eat in the wild.
- Commercial Raw Food: Many companies offer pre-made raw food diets that are already balanced.
- Consult a Veterinarian: Before transitioning your cat to a raw diet, consult with your veterinarian to ensure it's suitable for their individual needs and health conditions.
What Raw Meats are Good for Cats?
Meats of various types make up the bulk of the diet, as cats are an obligate carnivore. That is, they need meat to survive and have a very high protein requirement. They also need organ meats, such as heart, liver and kidney, to supply vitamins and minerals, including taurine. They must eat raw bone or other calcium sources for their mineral needs. They need sources of fatty acids, e.g. fish or eggs, for their brain and nervous tissue. Cats also require small amounts of prebiotic fibre to keep their guts functioning optimally.
- Chicken
- Salmon
- Cod
- Pork
- Lamb
- Flake
- Beef
- Sardines
- Mackerel
- Pilchards
- Quail
- Rabbit
- Kidney
- Liver
- Spleen
- Pancreas
- Heart
- Tripe
How to Make the Switch
Transitioning your cat to a raw meat diet should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Here’s a simple guide:
- Start Slowly: Begin by mixing a small amount of raw food with each of your cat's current meals.
- Increase Gradually: Gradually increase the proportion of raw food every few days while decreasing the amount of the old food over 3 to 4 weeks.
- Monitor Your Cat: Watch for any signs of digestive issues and adjust as needed. Food refusal is likely. Cats don't like change. If they won't eat it, reduce the amount of raw food and then try again in a few days.
- Feed Warm: Warm the food to increase acceptance. Cats like their food at room temperature, so never feed them cold.
- Consistency is Key: To help your cat adjust, maintain a consistent feeding schedule. Leave food down for a set amount of time. Offer five minutes to eat it and then take it away again.
- Hygiene: Good food hygiene is essential when feeding raw food diets. Do not leave food down as it will spoil and ensure bowls and surfaces are washed regularly and thoroughly.
- Consult with your vet: See your vet if you have any concerns.
Top Tips for Feeding Raw Cat Food
- Choose cuts with a standard fat content, and provide a variety of protein choices over time.
- Source your meat from a reputable supplier.
- Store raw food properly.
- Wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw food.
- Monitor your cat for any signs of digestive issues or health problems.
- Avoid feeding fish more than 3-4 times a week to prevent thyroid issues.