Did you know raw pet food is packed with more moisture, nutrients and protein than traditional dry kibble? That’s because it’s minimally processed with simple, high-quality animal ingredients. Whether you’re considering making the switch to a raw diet or simply want to learn more about the benefits, we’re here to help. In this blog, we’ll provide answers to your top questions. Plus, you’ll find helpful tips for transitioning your pet to a raw diet and a guide to the best raw pet foods.
Don’t have time to read the whole blog? Head to our Ask an Expert: FAQs at the end for quick answers to your questions about raw pet food.
“WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF A RAW DIET FOR DOGS & CATS?”
Dogs and cats can enjoy many benefits on a raw diet. Here are the top 10 reasons why we recommend switching your pet to a raw diet:
- Energy & vitality
- Oral hygiene
- Better digestion
- Smaller poops
- Food sensitivities
- Weight management
- Strengthened immune system
- Healthy skin & coat
- Strong body
- Mealtime excitement
Let’s dig into each of these raw food benefits and learn how they can help your pet thrive.
1. INCREASED ENERGY & VITALITY
2. ORAL HYGIENE
Because raw food is packed with vitamins, minerals and protein, pets who are fed a raw diet often experience increased energy and vitality throughout every phase of life.
Raw diets contain natural enzymes that break down bacteria in your pet’s mouth, helping to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease. Raw food is also low in carbs, reducing the dental acid production that can lead to tooth decay.
3. BETTER DIGESTION
4. SMALLER (LESS STINKY) POOPS
Formulated based on your pet’s biological needs, raw food is easier to digest and gentler on sensitive stomachs. Many recipes also include probiotics to support healthy digestion.
Added bonus? Because raw food is easier and more efficient for pets to digest, it means smaller, firmer and less stinky stools! Once your pet has fully transitioned to a raw diet, they may even poop less – as their body utilizes more of the food and eliminates less.
5. LESS RISK OF FOOD SENSITIVITIES
6. WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
Raw food is made with clean, simple ingredients, including real meat, organs and bone. This means no hidden ingredients or inflammatory fillers like corn, soy and wheat, which can trigger allergies. However, it’s important to note that pets who are allergic to a specific protein (e.g., chicken or beef) will still be allergic to it in its raw form.
High in protein and low in carbs, raw food naturally supports healthy weight maintenance for pets. A raw diet helps promote lean muscles while minimizing excessive fat storage.
7. STRENGTHENED IMMUNE SYSTEM
8. HEALTHY SKIN & COAT
The high-quality nutrients and antioxidants found in raw food help strengthen your pet’s immune system. These antioxidants help lower your pet’s risk of chronic disease, slow the aging process and support overall wellness.
Who doesn’t love a silky, smooth coat? Raw diets are packed with clean ingredients, natural oils and fatty acids that support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
9. STRONG BODY
10. MEALTIME EXCITEMENT
Naturally rich in protein – plus glucosamine, chondroitin and L-carnitine – raw diets support strong muscles, joints and bones. This can help your pet stay active longer as they age.
Pets are essentially professional taste testers – and they’ll be sure to let you know if they don’t like what’s in their bowl. Thankfully, raw meals are highly palatable, packed with delicious flavors and interesting textures to entice even the pickiest eaters.
“IS A RAW DIET SAFE FOR MY DOG OR CAT?”
When sourced from trusted brands, a raw diet is safe and healthy for many pets. Chuck & Don’s only carries high-quality brands that we feed our own dogs and cats. Our raw food partners adhere to the highest standards and conduct testing throughout every phase of the production process to ensure safety and quality. As with any change, we recommend consulting your vet before switching your pet to a fully raw diet, especially if they have any preexisting health conditions.
When preparing raw food or treats, use care to minimize the risk of contamination. It’s also important to ensure raw products are stored safely at home by following the storage instructions on the packaging.
“HOW DO I TRANSITION MY DOG OR CAT TO A RAW DIET?”
Ready to make the switch to a raw diet? Slowly mix a little new food into your pet’s current food each day to avoid tummy troubles. You can even add a little pumpkin, goat milk or a probiotic supplement to their bowl for added digestive support.
We recommend the following schedule as a general rule of thumb (or paw), but you can take it even slower if your pet has a sensitive stomach. After 10 days, most pets should be fully transitioned onto their new diet.
“DO I NEED TO TRANSITION MY PET TO A FULLY RAW DIET?”
When it comes to raw pet food, a little goes a long way. Even introducing a small amount of raw food to your pet’s diet delivers big health benefits. Depending on what works for your lifestyle and preferences, you can introduce one or more of the following products into your pet’s diet:
- Raw Food: Complete and balanced meals available in a variety of formulas, including fresh, frozen and freeze-dried.
- Raw Treats & Chews: Usually freeze-dried, packed with protein, and perfect for training, snacking and rewarding.
- Raw Toppers: Add a freeze-dried or frozen topper to your pet’s bowl for extra flavor, protein and nutrients.
“WHAT RAW PET FOOD IS BEST?”
The Chuck & Don’s Pet Foodies thoughtfully curate our raw pet food selection with the best, most trusted products. Some of our favorite raw pet food brands include:
- Stella & Chewy’s: Complete and balanced raw food recipes that support your pet’s whole-body health. Try: Stella & Chewy’s food, treats and toppers.
- Primal Pet Foods: Premium, protein-rich raw food developed to nourish your pet according to their ancestral needs. Try: Primal food, treats, toppers and hydrators.
- Vital Essentials: Raw frozen and freeze-dried recipes made in small batches with fresh, whole ingredients. Try: Vital Essentials food, treats and chews.
- Steve’s Real Food: Raw dog and cat food designed to help your pet thrive on a species-appropriate diet. Try: Steve’s Real Food meals and treats.
Hungry for more? Check out our full selection of raw pet food for your BFF.
If you have more questions about raw pet food, come visit your neighborhood store to chat with your local Pet Foodies. We’ll help you find the perfect recipes for your pet – whether you’re on the hunt for treats, toppers or a fully raw diet.
ASK AN EXPERT: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ABOUT RAW PET FOOD
Is a raw diet good for dogs and cats?
A complete and balanced raw diet can support healthy digestion, skin and coat, lean muscles, energy and overall wellness. Talk to your vet before making major changes to your pet’s diet.
Is raw pet food safe?
Yes, when you choose raw pet food from trusted brands that follow strict food safety and quality standards. Proper storage and handling are also important.
How do I switch my dog or cat to a raw diet?
Transition gradually over 10 days by slowly replacing your pet’s current food with raw food. A slower transition may be best for pets with sensitive stomachs.
Can puppies and kittens eat raw food?
Yes, as long as the recipe is complete and balanced for growth and appropriate for their life stage. Follow the feeding guidelines on the package or ask your vet for advice.
Can senior dogs and cats eat raw food?
Many senior pets thrive on a complete and balanced raw diet. If your pet has a medical condition, consult your vet before switching foods.
