From the big cats prowling the savannahs of the Serengheti to the one curled up on your favorite chair, cats are predators. In fact, your cat companion shares over 95% of their DNA with those meat-eating predators in the wild! They evolved from the same ancient species that didn’t eat kibble or wet food from a can. They were raw meat eaters. So why should we leave our cats out of the raw food discussion?
We shouldn’t!
Feeding a cat raw food provides a biologically appropriate diet that can lead to better health, increased longevity, and overall vitality in our feline companions.
If you’ve ever considered raw feeding but found the idea daunting or even unappealing, this guide is for you. By the end, you’ll understand why a raw diet is superior for cats, what to include to meet their nutritional needs, how to transition your cat to raw food safely, and how to overcome common concerns.
Let’s dive into the benefits of raw food for cats and explore why this natural approach could transform your cat’s well-being.
Benefits of Raw Food for Cats
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are biologically designed to thrive on a diet consisting almost entirely of animal-based proteins and fats.
Unlike omnivores or herbivores, cats lack the enzymes necessary to efficiently process carbohydrates, which makes the high-carb content of many commercial cat foods problematic.
A raw diet, on the other hand, mirrors the prey animals that cats would eat in the wild, providing optimal nutrition and some very significant health benefits.
The Problem with Commercial Cat Food
Those cat food commercials sure are good at making you feel like you’re feeding quality food to your cats, but behind the fancy packing and the cute jingles, there’s something you should know:
Most commercial cat foods—both kibble and canned—are heavily processed, which diminishes their nutritional value. Fillers like corn, wheat, and soy are commonly used to bulk up these products, but they provide little to no benefit for cats.
Even super high-quality cooked food is inferior. The cooking process destroys heat-sensitive nutrients, including essential amino acids like taurine, which must then be added back artificially.
Your Cat is Built to Eat Raw!
Raw diets cater perfectly to a cat’s unique dietary needs. They provide:
High-quality animal protein: Essential for muscle maintenance and repair
Adequate fat levels: Crucial for energy and cell function, as highlighted in
Taurine: Found naturally in raw muscle meats and crucial for heart health, vision, and reproduction
Just as important, raw diets are free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and fillers, reducing the likelihood of food sensitivities and allergies.
Advantages of a Raw Diet for Cats
I’ll provide links to many studies at the end of this post for you to peruse, but here’s a summary of some of the main benefits to feeding your cat a raw diet:
Improved digestion: Cats on raw diets tend to have smaller, less odorous stools due to better nutrient absorption.
Enhanced coat and skin health: The high moisture content and natural fats in raw food contribute to a shinier coat and healthier skin.
Dental health: The chewing action required to break down raw meat and bones helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup
Urinary and kidney support: The high moisture content of raw diets helps maintain urinary tract health and supports hydration.
By choosing a raw diet, you’re not just feeding your cat—you’re honoring their biological blueprint. This shift can lead to profound improvements in health, vitality, and longevity, making raw diets a superior choice for your feline companion.
Next, we’ll discuss what a properly balanced raw diet for cats looks like and how to ensure your cat gets all the nutrients they need.
What Should Be Included in a Raw Diet for Cats
Serving a plate of raw tuna everyday isn’t good enough for your cat! The proper balance of the right ingredients is needed to meet their unique nutritional needs as obligate carnivores.
Key Components of a Raw Diet
Here are the ingredients that should be included in a raw diet for cats. These components need to be fed in the right balance in order to be able to maintain the health of your cat. To get the right balance, we recommend choosing food made by ethical raw cat food manufacturers. Do your research to be sure these companies source high-quality, human-grade meats from trusted suppliers.
You can find high quality raw foods for your cat at The Healthy Animal Healing Center. We’ve done the research for you and only offer reputable brands specializing in biologically appropriate diets for pets.
If you’d like to DIY your own raw cat food, please consult a feline nutritionist to calculate the appropriate balance for your cat.
A raw diet for cats typically includes the following:
Raw Muscle Meat
This serves as the primary protein source and makes up the bulk of a cat’s diet. Chicken, turkey, rabbit, and duck are excellent choices. Using a variety of proteins ensures your cat gets a broad spectrum of amino acids and nutrients.
Raw Bones
Raw, edible bones are essential for calcium and phosphorus, which support bone health, muscle function, and overall vitality. Chicken necks, wings, and other small, soft bones are ideal for cats. Never feed cooked bones! They can splinter and pose a choking hazard.
Organs
Organs like liver and heart are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Liver, for instance, is an excellent source of vitamin A, while the heart is rich in taurine, a critical nutrient for cats.
4. Optional Additions
Consider adding small amounts of fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids or a taurine supplement if organ meats are limited.
The Importance of Balance in Raw Cat Food
An unbalanced raw diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies or excesses, which may harm your cat’s health. Following the prey model diet – a mix of approximately 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organs – is a helpful guideline. If you’re going to mix your own raw foods, please consult a feline nutritionist to be sure you’re including the right amounts of these key ingredients.
Save the hassle of weighing and mixing your own by purchasing balanced, pre-mixed raw diets from The Healthy Animal Healing Center.
What to Avoid
Cooked Bones: As mentioned, they can splinter and cause internal injuries.
Seasoned or Processed Meats: Spices, salts, and preservatives can be toxic to cats.
Carbohydrate Fillers: Avoid grains, potatoes, and other carbs, as cats cannot digest these effectively.
Focusing on whole, natural ingredients that mimic a cat’s ancestral diet is the best way to feed your purring furball and their inner tiger!
Ready to make the leap to raw? Next, we’ll explore how to transition your cat to a raw diet and address any challenges you might encounter along the way.
How to Transition to Feeding Your Cat Raw Food
Slow and steady won the race for the tortoise, and it’s the key to successfully transitioning your cat to a raw diet.
Cats can be creatures of habit, especially when it comes to food, so a gradual shift is key to ensuring their comfort and acceptance.
Start Slow and Gradual
Abruptly switching to a raw diet can cause digestive upset and may lead to food refusal. A gradual transition helps your cat adjust to the new taste, texture, and nutritional profile.
Follow these steps:
Mix Raw with Their Current Diet
Begin by adding a small amount of raw food to your cat’s regular meals. Start with 10% raw and 90% of their current food. Gradually increase the raw portion over 7–14 days until it completely replaces the old diet.
Experiment with Proteins
Some cats may be more receptive to certain proteins than others. Start with milder meats like chicken or turkey and introduce other proteins once your cat is comfortable.
Offer at Room Temperature
Cats tend to prefer their food at room temperature, mimicking the warmth of fresh prey. Avoid serving cold food straight from the fridge.
Tips for Picky Eaters
Some cats may resist change, especially if they’ve been eating kibble or canned food for a long time.
Try these tips:
Add Incentives: Sprinkle a bit of a favorite treat, like freeze-dried meat, on top of the raw food.
Use Texture Transitions: Start with raw food that has a similar texture to your cat’s current food (e.g., finely ground meat if they’re used to pate-style canned food).
Stay Patient: It might take weeks for some cats to accept raw food fully. Persistence and consistency are key. Be the tortoise, not the hare!
Managing Digestive Upsets
As your cat’s system adjusts to raw food, you might notice temporary changes in stool consistency or frequency. This is normal and should stabilize within a few weeks. To support digestion:
Use a probiotic supplement designed for cats.
Avoid introducing multiple proteins at once; start with one and add others gradually.
Is Raw Food Safe for Cats? What About the Humans Who Live with Them?
You already know more about being safe around raw food than you know…you handle raw food in your own kitchen!
Following the same safety protocols when handling raw cat food that you do when handling your own raw food will greatly reduce the risks of foodborne illnesses for you and your cat.
Bacterial Safety: Proper handling and storage are key. Always use fresh, high-quality meat and wash surfaces and utensils thoroughly. Freeze raw food for at least three days to reduce potential pathogens before serving.
Licking or Touching Mouth: If your cat licks you or rubs their face on you right after eating raw cat food, wash your hands and the area they touched.
Monitoring Your Cat’s Progress
Once your cat is fully transitioned, keep an eye on their health and behavior. Positive signs include:
Increased energy levels
Shinier coat and healthier skin
Smaller, less odorous stoolsIf you notice persistent digestive issues or reluctance to eat, consult a veterinarian experienced in raw feeding
Transitioning to raw is a journey, but the rewards—better health, vitality, and longevity—make it well worth the effort. Next, let’s debunk some common misconceptions about raw diets to empower you further.
Common Misconceptions About Feeding Raw Cat Food
Raw diets for cats and dogs are becoming more mainstream and better understood, but if you’re still a bit hesitant, let’s clear up the common misconceptions.
Misconception 1: “Raw Diets Are Dangerous”
One of the most common fears about raw feeding is the risk of bacterial contamination. While it’s true that raw meat can carry bacteria, proper food handling and storage can mitigate this risk.
Cats, as natural carnivores, are equipped with a highly acidic digestive system that helps them process raw meat safely. Their shorter digestive tracts further reduce the window for bacterial growth compared to humans.
Tips for safe handling:
Use fresh, high-quality meats from reputable sources.
Store raw food in the freezer until ready to use, and thaw in the refrigerator, not on the countertop!
Clean all surfaces, bowls, and utensils thoroughly after meal prep.
Misconception 2: “It’s Gross to Feed Raw Meat”
Handling raw meat may feel unpleasant at first, especially if you’re not used to it. However, consider it a small inconvenience for the enormous health benefits it provides for your cat. Using pre-made raw food options or freeze-dried raw products can also reduce the “ick factor” while maintaining the benefits of raw feeding.
Misconception 3: “Raw Diets Are Too Expensive”
While raw diets can initially seem more expensive than commercial kibble or canned food, the investment in your cat’s health often offsets the costs. Cats on raw diets frequently experience fewer health issues, which can mean lower vet bills over time.
Misconception 4: “It’s Too Complicated”
Balancing a raw diet might feel intimidating, but with the right guidance, it’s simpler than you think. Choosing pre-mixed raw cat food from The Healthy Animal Healing Center takes care of the calculating and mixing for you! Our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Misconception 5: “My Cat Will Never Accept Raw Food”
Some cats are picky eaters, especially if they’ve been on kibble or canned food for years. Transitioning gradually and using tips like mixing raw with their current food can help. With persistence, most cats can successfully switch to raw and even prefer it once accustomed to the taste and texture.
Misconception 6: “Raw Bones Are Dangerous”
The idea that bones are dangerous comes from confusion with cooked bones, which can splinter and harm your cat. Raw bones, when appropriately sized, are safe and highly beneficial. They provide calcium and phosphorus while supporting dental health by reducing plaque and tartar.
Satisfying Your Cat’s Instincts Is a Health and Longevity Booster
Feeding your cat a species-appropriate diet is one of the best ways to show your love and care. You’re not only feeding your cat what they were biologically designed to eat, you’re allowing your cat to explore their natural instincts, creating balance for their physical, mental, and emotional health.
Choosing a raw diet for your cat is one of the most impactful decisions you can make for their long-term health and happiness.
Are you ready to take the next step in your cat’s nutrition journey?
Contact us today for guidance, tips, and product recommendations tailored to your cat’s needs. We’re here to help you navigate the transition and provide your cat companion with the healthiest, happiest life possible.
If your cat has a canine sibling and you’d like to consider transitioning your dog to raw too, check out this blog post!
Resources:
If you're curious about the science and guidance behind raw diets for cats, these resources provide valuable insights:
The Little Carnivore Blog: Prey Model Raw Plus Diet for Cats – A helpful guide to creating balanced raw meals using the prey model diet.
"The Influence of Cooking and Fat Trimming on the Actual Nutrient Intake from Meat" – This study explores how cooking meat impacts its nutritional value.
"Feeding Raw Bones to Cats and Dogs" by Dr. Bruce Syme, BVSc (Hons) – Learn why raw bones are safe and beneficial for pets.
Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats (National Research Council) – A comprehensive look at pet nutrition, including the benefits of raw feeding.
"Use of a Raw Meat-Based Diet or a Dry Kibble Diet for Sand Cats (Felis Margarita)" – Insights from a study on how wild cats thrive on raw diets.
Small Animal Clinical Nutrition – A detailed guide to understanding what your cat needs to stay healthy, including raw feeding principles.
"Facilitative and Functional Fats in Diets of Cats and Dogs" – A breakdown of the importance of healthy fats in pet diets.
Your Cat: Simple Secrets to a Longer, Stronger Life by Dr. Elizabeth M. Hodgkins – A must-read for any cat owner interested in natural nutrition.
"Influence of Diet Consistency on Periodontal Disease in Captive Carnivores" – Discover how diet impacts dental health in cats and other carnivores.
Hare Today: The Benefits of a Raw Diet for Your Cat – A great resource for understanding why raw food supports feline health and longevity.
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