The Complete Guide to Raw Feeding for Dogs and Cats

Everything you need to know about starting a raw food diet for your pet, from basics to advanced nutrition.

The Complete Guide to Raw Feeding for Dogs and Cats

What is Raw Feeding?

Raw feeding, also known as BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food), is a diet that mimics what dogs and cats would eat in the wild. This approach provides fresh, unprocessed meat, bones, organs, and sometimes vegetables to carnivorous pets.

Benefits of Raw Feeding

For Dogs

  • Shinier coat and healthier skin - The natural oils and proteins in raw food contribute to a lustrous coat
  • Cleaner teeth - Raw bones provide natural dental cleaning
  • Better digestion - Raw food is easier for dogs to digest than processed kibble
  • Increased energy levels - Natural nutrients provide sustained energy
  • Reduced allergies - Fewer processed ingredients mean fewer allergens

For Cats

  • Optimal hydration - Raw food has 70%+ moisture content, crucial for feline health
  • Healthy urinary tract - Proper hydration reduces urinary issues
  • Natural taurine - Essential amino acid found in raw muscle meat
  • Weight management - High protein, low carb promotes lean muscle mass
  • Better dental health - Chewing raw meat keeps teeth clean

Basic Components

The 80-10-10 Rule (Prey Model Raw)

  • 80% Muscle Meat - Chicken, beef, turkey, lamb, duck, fish
  • 10% Raw Edible Bone - Chicken necks, wings, turkey necks, duck frames
  • 10% Organ Meat - 5% liver, 5% other organs (kidney, spleen, pancreas)

The BARF Model

  • 70% Muscle Meat - Various protein sources
  • 10% Raw Edible Bone - For calcium and phosphorus
  • 10% Organ Meat - Nutrient-dense superfoods
  • 10% Vegetables and Fruits - (For dogs only - cats are obligate carnivores)

Getting Started

Week 1: Preparation

  • Research and choose your approach (PMR or BARF)
  • Find reliable raw food suppliers in your area
  • Invest in a separate freezer for pet food
  • Calculate your pet's daily food requirements
  • Choose your starter protein (usually chicken)

Week 2-3: Transition

Start with a single protein source:

  • Day 1-3: 25% raw, 75% current food
  • Day 4-7: 50% raw, 50% current food
  • Day 8-10: 75% raw, 25% current food
  • Day 11+: 100% raw food

Month 2+: Variety

Introduce new proteins every 2-3 weeks:

  • Chicken → Turkey → Beef → Lamb → Fish → Duck

Portion Sizing

For Dogs

  • Puppies (2-4 months): 8-10% of body weight daily
  • Puppies (4-9 months): 5-8% of body weight daily
  • Adult dogs: 2-3% of ideal body weight daily
  • Active/working dogs: 3-5% of body weight daily
  • Senior dogs: 1.5-2.5% of body weight daily

For Cats

  • Kittens (2-9 months): 5-8% of body weight daily
  • Adult cats: 2-4% of ideal body weight daily
  • Active cats: 3-4% of body weight daily
  • Senior/sedentary cats: 2-3% of body weight daily

Food Safety

Storage Guidelines

  • Keep frozen meats at 0°F (-18°C) or below
  • Thaw in refrigerator, never on counter
  • Use thawed food within 24-48 hours
  • Never refreeze thawed raw meat
  • Store in airtight containers

Handling Practices

  • Wash hands before and after handling
  • Use separate cutting boards for pet food
  • Clean all surfaces with hot, soapy water
  • Sanitize bowls after each meal
  • Don't leave food out for more than 30 minutes

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Feeding only muscle meat - Bones and organs are essential
  • Cooking the bones - Cooked bones splinter and are dangerous
  • Not providing variety - Rotate proteins for balanced nutrition
  • Rushing the transition - Go slow to avoid digestive upset
  • Feeding weight-bearing bones from large animals - Can break teeth
  • For cats: Adding vegetables - Cats are obligate carnivores

Next Steps

  • Read our guide on [Safe Food Handling Practices](#)
  • Learn about [Balancing Your Pet's Raw Diet](#)
  • Join our [Raw Feeding Community](#)
  • Find [Local Raw Food Suppliers](/suppliers)

Conclusion

Raw feeding is a commitment to your pet's health and longevity. While it requires more effort than opening a bag of kibble, the benefits are undeniable. Start slowly, do your research, and don't hesitate to consult with a raw-feeding-friendly veterinarian.

Remember: Every pet is unique. Monitor your pet's weight, energy levels, and overall health as you make this transition.