What's all this talk about raw dog and cat food? The truth is... it might just be the very best thing you can be feeding your pet. To us humans, a raw diet for our dogs and cats may sound unsafe, but in reality when it's prepared properly, it is the most nutrient-dense and thoughtful thing you can be feeding your pets. Dogs and cats have been eating raw-meat for thousands of years, up until humans invented kibble and treats; their digestive tracts are made to break down and consume things that human stomachs cannot process. While most kibble is meat-based, often times the meat goes through so many processes that ultimately take out essential vitamins and nutrients and this can leave your pets deficient. Additionally, majority of kibbles found in grocery stores have a plethora of additives to extend shelf life and just like in humans, these unorganic added materials can cause health issues especially when this is the only thing they eat evey day. You may be thinking about creating your own "raw dog/cat food" at home, but this is less than ideal. Commercially-made raw dog and cat foods are created with your pets exact needs in mind. Every nutrient, vitamin and mineral goes into consideration as well as the amount of it to make sure your pets every day diet includes everything they require to thrive. They also process the raw meat in a way that locks in all those nutrients yet makes it safe to consume with limited risk of bacteria and parasites.
We know feeding a raw-only diet isn't always possible with all things considered and there are definitely high quality kibbles out there, so even if you can incorporate raw into just 20% of your pets diet, a difference will be noticed. Simple swaps to add more raw include: treats, adding a small amount as a topper on your pets bowl, feeding only raw a few times a week or even just replacing any canned food with a raw food! Raw pet food has the ability to reduce allergies, ear infections, inflammation, and general illness all while improving skin & coat, joint, gut and oral health. There's potential to extend your dogs lifespan by providing the best diet, who doesn't want more time with their best fur friend?