Raw Diets for Cats

Do Your Research

• Cats are carnivores and need meat in their diets to survive. Vegetarian and grain-based kibble have amino acids like taurine and extra protein added to make up deficiencies. Cats have no dietary requirement for carbohydrates, vegetable matter or fiber, and these are added to dry cat food as fillers. Everything necessary for a complete feline diet is found in meat, bones and organs fed in proper proportion that mimics what would be found in the wild. Cats need more than simply meat. They must also eat bones for minerals and organ meat like liver for other nutrients. The proper proportions are roughly 80 percent meat, 10 to 15 percent bone, with organs making up the balance.
  There are many websites on the topic of raw feeding cats, and not all of them provide reliable information. Look for articles by veterinarians (see the feline nutrition link in Resources) or books by veterinarians like Dr. Martin Goldstein, who endorses a raw diet.

Ground Food

• Make your own ground food using a grinder. An easy way to do this is by using smaller whole animals like rabbits, chickens, game hens and ducks. Ethnic markets, butchers and raw pet food distributors usually have a variety of suitable meats. Cut into portions, even the bones will grind easily. It is also fine to use other meats like boneless pork and beef, and add easy-to grind bones like chicken wings and necks for bone content. Some experts suggest adding small amounts of fish or salmon oil for skin and coat health.
  The most convenient way to make raw cat food is make it in large batches, and store it in small containers in the freezer. You can make several month's worth of food in a few hours this way.
  Several companies make commercial raw diets for cats either in small patties or in freeze dried form. Some cats used to kibble will resist eating any different food. Mix small amounts of the raw food in with the current food and gradually increase the amount of raw. Serving food at room temperature or slightly warmed up makes it more palatable to most cats.

Whole Prey-Model Diets

• Those who feed whole raw food instead of grinding it up believe that it is better for a cat's dental health and overall well-being to chew and crunch bones. Cats can easily eat chicken necks and wings and smaller rabbit bones. They can also gnaw on larger bones and meat, and the unfinished portions can be refrigerated until the next meal.