Feline Raw Food Diet

Cats are carnivores. In nature, wild cats eat their prey raw. Yet, in recent decades, most pet cats have been given a diet of commercial kibble and canned food. The ingredients and processing represent a departure from the natural diet of cats. Learn how to feed felines a raw diet and how they can benefit from a switch to raw food.

  1. Ingredients

    • Cats are carnivores and should eat about 90 to 95 percent meat and only 5 to 10 percent vegetables. Small amounts of cottage cheese or egg may be added on occasion.

    Fresh Meat

    • Cats can be fed raw meat and bones from the butcher, such as chicken or turkey backs and necks. Organic human-grade meat is best.

    Commercial Diets

    • Several companies are now offering raw food in various forms. Honest Kitchen offers Prowl, a dehydrated raw food that is mixed with warm water, and Nature's Variety offers frozen raw patties to thaw and serve.

    Considerations

    • Cats have different digestive systems than humans and are thus far less likely to be susceptible to contamination from raw meat. For human safety, be sure to clean counter areas with bleach or diluted grapefruit seed extract.

    Benefits

    • Most cat owners report that switching to raw food results in improved overall health, cleaner teeth, less bad breath and fewer digestive problems for their feline companions.

    Supplements

    • Consider adding probiotics to your cat's diet, especially while transitioning from your feline's old diet to raw food. A good source of essential fatty acids, such as chia oil, is also beneficial.

    Disclaimer

    • The information in this article should not be considered medical advice. The information in this article is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure any ailment. Always consult your animal health practitioner before you start, stop or change anything that has been previously prescribed.