A raw food diet can transform your pet! It is a great choice for any cat or dog, and can also help with common pet problems, such as:
- Difficult to solve food intolerances
- Kidney issues
- Diabetes
- Urinary crystals
- Decreased ability to chew due to tooth loss
- Frequent teeth cleaning
How to Feed your Pet Raw Food
When switching from dry kibble to raw food, we recommend switching “cold turkey”. Do not mix dry kibble and raw food, as kibble takes longer to digest. Mixing the two may result in constipation and pain for your pet.
Raw frozen pet foods contain 60-70% moisture. It is normal to notice a decrease in water consumption, as your pet will be getting a large part if their water requirement from their raw food. It is also normal for your pet to have loose stools for the first day or two when switching to a raw diet.
Each raw protein source contains different essential amino acids that your pets need for optimal health. We recommend alternating between brands and recipes (protein sources) on a weekly basis (if your pet’s diet isn’t too restricted) for best results.
How Much Raw Food to Feed your Pet
How much you feed your dog or cat is based on percent body weight and life stage of your pet.
Puppies need to consume about 5-10% of their body weight daily, and this decreases as they get older. Young adult dogs need about 3% of body their weight, depending on activity level. You may need to decrease this to 2% by the time your dog is 2 or 3 years old (again, depending on activity level). Senior dogs need to eat about 2% of their body weight daily. Always check to see how easily you can feel your pet’s ribs. If they are not easily found, reduce the amount being fed.
Kittens need to consume about 4.5-5% of their body weight daily. Adult cats should be reduced to about 3-3.5%, depending on activity level (indoor cats would likely be on the lower end). Senior cats need to eat about 2% of their body weight daily.
How Much Does it Cost to Feed a Raw Food Diet?
Raw food prices vary by brand and protein source. Chicken-based recipes are cheapest, followed by turkey, with red meats and fish being more expensive.
However, if you currently feed your dog or cat mostly wet canned foods, it is actually cheaper (and better) to feed a raw food diet! Bulk cases of raw frozen foods are also available for those with larger dogs, to help reduce costs.
What if I Travel or Camp?
Your pet can still enjoy the benefits of a raw food diet on-the go! A styrofoam cooler with freezer packs will easily keep their food frozen for 12 hours or more. You can also use freeze-dried, air-dried, or dehydrated raw food options, and just add water. These food packages take up much less space and are very convenient when away from home.
Interested in trying a raw food diet with your pet? Drop by and speak with one of our associates, who will help you choose the best options, based on your pet’s life stage and any current health concerns.
