Is Raw Food Good for Pets?

Benefits of a Natural Raw Diet

Embracing a raw food diet offers a myriad of benefits for pets. Here are some key advantages:

Improved Coat and Skin:

Owners often report a lustrous shine in their pet’s coat and healthier skin shortly after making the switch.

Higher Energy Levels:

A raw diet can invigorate your pets, leading to increased playfulness and activity.

Better Digestion:

Raw diets are known to result in smaller, less smelly stools due to better digestion.

Natural Dental Health:

Chewing on raw bones naturally helps keep teeth clean and healthy.

Historically, pets thrived on raw prey for centuries. It’s only after the surge in commercial pet foods that their diets dramatically changed.

A Glimpse into History

Before the industrial age, pets predominantly consumed raw meats, bones, and the occasional plant matter, all of which their bodies are naturally equipped to digest.

Nurturing by Nature: A Vision

At Nurturing by Nature, the approach isn't just about raw food. Our vision extends beyond just feeding raw. We aim to fulfill the holistic needs of pets, providing a diet that’s faithful to their evolutionary requirements.

Our Ethos: Back to Basics

Our guiding principle at Nurturing by Nature is straightforward yet impactful. We believe pets deserve a diet free from the artificial ingredients and chemicals prevalent in many commercial feeds.

Ingredients Matter

We prioritise sourcing premium, fresh ingredients because the caliber of the raw food directly impacts pet health and well-being. It's not merely about raw feeding; it’s about doing it responsibly.

Sustainable and Ethical Choices:

Our commitment to growing a values-based business means making ethical decisions that consider the welfare of all animals involved.

A Lifestyle Choice

Opting for a raw diet transcends typical feeding routines; it’s a transformative lifestyle choice. At Nurturing by Nature, we witness the positive shift in energy not just in pets, but also in their owners, as they align more closely with nature’s intent.

The Ripple Effect

The benefits of raw feeding ripple outwards, promoting an active lifestyle that includes more engaging walks and playtime, thus deepening the connection between pet and owner.

Digestive Systems Tailored for Raw

Cats and dogs, by nature, are carnivores. Their digestive systems are significantly different from ours and are specifically designed to process raw meat and bones. Just like we see on nature programs on TV, they're anatomically made to hunt, catch, and kill their prey. Sharp canine teeth to catch, puncture, and hold. A strong hinged jaw and large flat teeth at the back of their mouth to crush bones. All so that they can eat their food as fast as possible so that they don’t become prey themselves.

The Power of Enzymes

Raw food comes with natural enzymes that aid digestion. When food is cooked or processed, many of these enzymes are destroyed, making it harder for pets to extract the necessary nutrients. Indeed, this is such a concern that in commercial pet food, additives are often sprayed onto the food to compensate.

Making the Transition: Raw Feeding in Practice

Choosing a raw diet for your pets is a commendable decision, but it's essential to ensure the transition is smooth and beneficial. So how does one make the shift? And what are the practical considerations to keep in mind?

Taking the First Steps

The transition to raw feeding can be gradual or immediate, depending on what works best for you and your pet.

Begin Slowly or Go Straight In

This choice is yours; your pet will adapt. Dogs are often easy to introduce to raw food, while cats can be more particular. If you have a large bag of commercial food, consider using it up before transitioning.

Sourcing Your Raw Ingredients

Quality is paramount when feeding raw to ensure the best health outcomes for your pet. At Nurturing by Nature, we refuse to compromise on our ingredients or service. When buying pet food, consider: Do I trust the brand? Do they do what they say? Don’t be guided entirely by price; there's often a reason why one brand may be cheaper than another. High-quality raw pet food, attentive to licensing and approval, inevitably involves costs reflective of its quality.

Challenges and Solutions

While raw feeding has its merits, it's not without challenges. But with knowledge and preparation, these challenges can be overcome.

Challenge 1: Time Consuming

Solution: Pre-preparing meals in batches and freezing them ensures you always have something ready for your pet. Bulk ordering can be the most economical approach to raw feeding, but we offer various product sizes to meet all needs. It's about finding what works for you and your lifestyle.

A Community Endeavour

Our social media pages are becoming a fountain of knowledge, and we aim to share experiences with all. We understand the challenges pet owners face in making the right choices for their pets, but our ever-growing community's support provides reassurance to everyone. Nurturing by Nature isn't just about providing raw food; it's about building a community that believes in nurturing our pets as nature intended.

Remember, every pet is unique, and while raw feeding has numerous benefits, it's essential to stay informed, be prepared, and always prioritize your pet's best interests. Investing in their well-being will be rewarding for them and you throughout their lives.

Why is a raw diet considered more natural for pets like cats and dogs?

Cats and dogs are descendants of wild ancestors who thrived on a diet composed primarily of raw meat, bones, and the occasional foray into plant matter. This evolutionary nutrition is what their bodies are still fundamentally structured to digest, making a raw diet a more natural fit for their biological makeup.

How can I ensure that the raw diet I'm providing is balanced and nutritious?

Balanced raw feeding requires a blend of muscle meat, organ meat, and bones, in appropriate ratios. Utilise resources like local butchers, farms, and experienced communities such as Nurturing by Nature for quality ingredients. Additionally, consulting with a vet or a pet nutritionist can ensure the diet is tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

Are there any risks associated with feeding pets raw food?

Any food, raw or processed, can harbour pathogens. Fortunately, pets are equipped with a highly acidic stomach and a short gastrointestinal tract that generally manage bacteria effectively. To minimise risks, it's crucial to source from reputable suppliers, practice safe food handling, and stay vigilant about your pet’s health and behavior.

How do I handle scepticism from family or friends regarding my choice to feed raw?

Confront scepticism with education. Share the positive changes you've observed in your pet's health, the historical context of pet diets, and introduce the guiding principles of Nurturing by Nature. Often, a blend of personal testimony and educational facts can alleviate concerns.

Can I switch my pet back to commercial food if raw feeding doesn't work out?

Certainly. Raw feeding is beneficial, but it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. If you opt to return to commercial food, transition your pet gradually to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Choose a high-quality commercial diet and continue to monitor your pet's health, seeking veterinary advice as needed.