The Benefits of Raw Pet Food: Why It Could Be the Right Choice for Your Pet

Pet owners are increasingly seeking natural, nutrient-rich diets for their furry friends, and raw pet food is becoming a popular choice. This approach emphasizes feeding pets minimally processed, high-quality ingredients, much like what their ancestors would have eaten in the wild. If you’re considering switching to raw food for your pet, here’s a guide to its benefits and what to look for in quality raw food products.

What Is Raw Pet Food?

Raw pet food diets are designed to provide a biologically appropriate meal that closely resembles what animals would naturally eat in the wild. These diets generally consist of fresh meats, bones, organs, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. Raw diets are high in protein and moisture, offering essential nutrients without the additives and preservatives often found in kibble.

Benefits of Raw Pet Food

1. Improved Digestive Health

Raw diets are free from many of the fillers and additives found in commercial kibble. Ingredients like fresh meat and bones are easier for many pets to digest, promoting better absorption of nutrients. Additionally, the naturally higher moisture content in raw food helps support hydration, benefiting digestive health and kidney function.

2. Healthier Skin and Coat

Raw food diets are often rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which contribute to healthier skin and a shiny, soft coat. Pets on raw diets frequently experience reduced skin allergies, itchiness, and dryness, leading to a healthier, more comfortable coat.

3. Enhanced Dental Health

Chewing raw bones can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup on your pet’s teeth. This can lead to fresher breath, healthier gums, and a reduced need for frequent dental cleanings. However, always supervise your pet with raw bones to prevent any potential choking hazards.

4. Increased Energy and Vitality

A raw diet can give your pet a natural energy boost, as it’s free from processed grains and fillers that can weigh pets down. Many pet owners report seeing improved stamina, mental alertness, and overall vitality in their pets after switching to a raw diet.

5. Weight Management

Raw diets typically focus on lean meats and natural, whole ingredients, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight for your pet. This is especially beneficial for pets prone to obesity, as raw diets often lead to improved muscle tone and a leaner body composition.

Choosing Quality Raw Pet Food: What to Look For

Quality among raw pet food brands varies, so it’s essential to choose reputable companies to ensure your pet gets all the nutrients they need. Here’s what to look for on labels:

• CFIA-Inspected Meats: Opt for raw pet food brands that use meats inspected by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) or similar regulatory bodies. This ensures the meat is safe and free from contaminants.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Check for a guaranteed analysis on the label, which provides a breakdown of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture content. This helps ensure your pet receives balanced nutrition.

• Comprehensive Ingredient Lists: Quality brands provide transparent ingredient lists, so you know exactly what’s in your pet’s food. Look for whole ingredients rather than vague terms like "meat by-products."

Transitioning to Raw Food Safely

If you’re new to raw feeding, gradually transition your pet to their new diet. Start by mixing small amounts of raw food with their current diet, slowly increasing the raw portion over one to two weeks. This gradual transition can help your pet’s digestive system adjust to the new food and avoid any tummy upsets. Read our blog "How to Correctly Switch Pet Foods" to learn more.

Myths and Misconceptions About Raw Feeding

There are several misconceptions about raw feeding that we can clear up:

• Myth: "Raw food isn’t safe."
  Fact: With proper handling and storage, raw food is as safe as any other pet food. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated or frozen and follow all handling guidelines.

• Myth: "Raw diets lack balance."
  Fact: Reputable raw food brands offer nutritionally balanced meals with vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids to meet your pet’s needs.

A raw diet can offer numerous benefits for your pet’s health, from improved digestion and dental health to a shinier coat and increased vitality. However, it’s crucial to select high-quality brands with CFIA-inspected meats, a guaranteed analysis, and clear ingredient lists.

Thinking about switching to raw? We carry a range of quality raw food options to fit your pet’s unique needs. Stop by to learn more and explore the benefits of raw feeding for your furry friend! Read our blog "What is the best food to feed my dog or cat? How to choose a healthy pet food!" to learn more about ingredients and pet food.

Our top Raw pick is the Vintage Raw

• Butcher Shoppe Canadian Meats that are Hormone & Antibiotic Free made with our tripartite-grind technique that results in a consistent fine ground bone
• Superfood Produce Veggies including Collard Greens, Broccoli, Zucchini & Carrots made with our binary-grind technique for maximum nutrient absorption
• Balanced with Kelp to make Vintage a complete diet ready to feed
• Inspected by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)

All of the natural recipes have been formulated by an experienced Animal Nutritionist with following education and credentials:
• Hons BSc Animal Biology, Minor in Nutrition
• MSc in Animal Nutrition
• 10+ years experience in Formulation, Ingredient Sourcing, Product Development and Quality Assurance

Shop Vintage Raw here.