Feeding raw food continues to be a controversial topic, even though domesticated cats and dogs are carnivores, whose descendants ate a raw diet. Many people are concerned over food safety and cost.
So here are a few answers to the most common questions people ask about feeding their pet raw food.
What is a raw diet?
A raw diet is a combination of raw meat, organ meat, bone, vegetables, fruit and other foods like almonds, flax seed, alfalfa, kelp, garlic and sunflower seeds that create a nutritionally complete and species appropriate food source for your dogs and cats.
What type and how much protein should I give my pet?
The type and amount of protein varies between cats and dogs and their size and dietary needs. The best way to determine the right amount of protein for your pet is to consult with your veterinarian. There are also prepared raw diets on the market that provide the correct balance of proteins, organ meat, bone, fruits and vegetables for your pet.
Can I feed my dog the same protein or should I vary it?
Again, it really depends on your cat or dog’s preferences and health needs. If you have a pet that tends to be overweight, for example, a low-fat protein is best. Or if you have a pet that will only eat one type of protein and is otherwise healthy, it may be alright to stick with what they will eat. Your veterinarian can help you assess what is the best raw diet for your cat or dog.
Is raw food safe?
The safety of raw food for pets is one of the most common questions out there. In our experience if you follow food safety protocols, raw food is safe and healthy for dogs and cats.
Let me tell you why I feed raw food to my dogs and recommend it to others
6 reasons I recommend a raw diet for pets:
Raw food is either fed fresh or frozen, it is NOT processed nor does it require added preservatives.
Raw food, designed properly can be balanced sufficiently to be fed long term safely.
There are many convenient options when feeding raw - homemade, commercially prepared, fresh, frozen or freeze-dried formulas.
Raw food helps manage food and skin allergies and sensitivities because of its limited ingredients, raw food now offers an alternative feeding approach to manage food allergies and sensitivities. Pets 4 Life will create custom food for dogs and cats with particular sensitivities.
Because of its high water content, raw food lends itself easily to portion-control and assists with weight management in our obese animal companions.
The addition of raw (never cooked) bones, when offered appropriately and with care can be beneficial for dental hygiene and prevent diseases caused by poor dental health.
What is the best raw diet for my pet?
Consulting with your vet can help you determine what is the best raw food for your dog or cat.