Raw feeding for cats has become a buzzword in recent years, with more pet owners turning away from processed kibble and tinned foods in search of something more "natural." You may have heard of the BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) for dogs, but is raw food right for your cat? Cats, after all, are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients found only in animal flesh to survive and thrive. Advocates claim raw food can improve coat condition, digestion, and energy, while critics warn of bacteria, unbalanced nutrition, and even serious illness if not done correctly.
Before diving into raw feeding, let’s unpack the facts, sift the pros and cons, and explore how to do it safely if you decide this might be the best path for your feline friend.
The Backstory: Why Raw Food Became Popular
The raw pet food movement took off in the 1990s, originally among dog owners. Dr. Ian Billinghurst, an Australian vet, coined the term BARF diet, suggesting pets thrive on diets closer to what their wild ancestors ate. The philosophy quickly spread to cat owners, whose pets’ evolutionary link to wild hunters like the African wildcat made raw feeding seem an intuitive fit.
In the UK, raw feeding gained momentum as concerns grew over highly processed pet foods. High carbohydrate content, additives, and the recall of some commercial foods due to contamination scandals left many owners looking for alternatives. Enter raw feeding,hailed by some as a return to nature, but not without controversy.
The Benefits of a Raw Food Diet for Cats
Advocates highlight a range of potential benefits when raw feeding is done properly and under veterinary guidance:
- Improved coat and skin – Many owners report shinier coats, reduced dandruff, and less shedding.
- Dental health – Chewing raw meaty bones may help reduce plaque and tartar build-up.
- Digestive support – Some cats experience firmer stools and fewer odour issues.
- Weight control – When combined with portion control, high-protein, low-carb raw diets may aid in healthy weight management.
- Energy and behaviour – Owners sometimes note increased vitality, playfulness, and reduced lethargy.
Although large-scale, long-term studies are lacking, some small-scale research and anecdotal reports indicate real potential benefits when raw diets are correctly balanced.
The Risks and Drawbacks
It’s not all cream and tuna — raw feeding carries risks you need to weigh carefully:
- Bacterial contamination – Raw meat may carry Salmonella or E. coli, which can affect cats and humans alike.
- Nutritional imbalance – Without expert formulation, cats risk deficiencies in taurine, calcium, or vitamin D.
- Bone hazards – Bones may splinter and cause choking, constipation, or blockages.
- Kittens and immune-compromised cats – These groups are at higher risk from pathogens in raw meat.
- Practical challenges – Sourcing, storage, preparation, and cost can make raw feeding inconvenient.
The RSPCA and Cats Protection both caution against DIY raw diets unless under professional veterinary supervision, citing safety and balance concerns.
Which Cats Benefit Most from a Raw Diet?
While any healthy adult cat could in theory eat raw, certain cats may gain more than others:
- Active breeds such as Bengals, Abyssinians, and Siamese often thrive on protein-rich diets.
- Cats with grain sensitivities may find raw diets easier to digest than kibble.
- Overweight domestic cats sometimes slim down naturally with raw feeding.
- Working cats on farms or estates with high activity levels may gain energy support.
Conversely, kittens, elderly cats, and those with chronic conditions should NOT be started on raw without veterinary approval.
How to Source Raw Cat Food
You have two main options:
- Commercial raw diets – Available from reputable pet food companies, often frozen into convenient nuggets. Look for those that meet FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation) nutritional standards.
Trusted UK brands include:
Natures Menu – DEFRA-approved, balanced raw meals.
- Nutriment – High-quality, grain-free, balanced formulations.
- Natural Instinct – Human-grade meat with added supplements.
- Homemade raw feeding – Requires careful research, sourcing human-grade meat, and often adding supplements like taurine and calcium. This option is high-maintenance and carries greater risks if not formulated properly.
Always source from DEFRA-approved suppliers, and never use meat that has not been frozen appropriately to kill parasites. Remember that while freezing can reduce parasite risk, not all pathogens may be eliminated. Safe sourcing remains essential.
What to Look for in the Best Brands
When buying commercial raw foods, check:
- DEFRA and FEDIAF - Ensure brands follow DEFRA licensing regulations and align with FEDIAF nutritional guidelines.
- Full nutritional labelling with protein, fat, vitamin, and mineral breakdown.
- Use of human-grade, ethically sourced meats.
- Transparent ingredient lists with no fillers.
- Options tailored for life stage (kitten, adult, senior).
Avoid brands with vague labelling or no evidence of balanced formulations.
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How to Transition Safely
Switching from kibble or wet food to raw should be gradual:
- Start by mixing small amounts of raw with their usual food.
- Increase raw portions slowly over 7–10 days.
- Monitor stool consistency, energy, and appetite.
- Always handle raw food with strict hygiene — wash hands, surfaces, and bowls thoroughly.
Never feed cooked bones (Cooked bones can splinter and cause life-threatening injuries to the digestive tract.), never leave raw food out for hours, and always defrost in the fridge rather than on the counter.
What Not to Do
- Don’t improvise a diet without vet-approved recipes.
- Don’t assume what works for dogs applies to cats.
- Don’t skip supplements like taurine — deficiencies can be fatal.
- Don’t source from unverified suppliers or use “wild game” unless processed safely.
Don’t force fussy eaters — some cats simply won’t take to raw.
FAQs
1. Can I feed my cat a raw diet part-time, or does it need to be all or nothing?
Answer:
Yes, you can feed your cat a raw diet part-time — often referred to as "raw topping" or "mixed feeding." Many owners choose to supplement a base of wet or high-quality dry food with raw meat or commercial raw products. However, nutritional balance is still crucial, even part-time. Avoid frequent switching within the same day, and always consult a vet to ensure the overall diet remains complete and balanced.
2. Is it safe to feed raw food to a multi-pet household or with children around?
Answer:
Feeding raw in homes with other pets or young children requires extra hygiene vigilance. Raw meat can carry bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria, which may be transmitted through contaminated surfaces or shared contact. Always:
- Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly after handling.
- Feed cats in designated areas away from children and other animals.
- Use stainless steel bowls and sanitize daily.
- Consider pre-portioned commercial raw products to reduce handling.
3. How much raw food should I feed my cat each day?
Answer:
As a general guideline, adult cats eat 2–3% of their ideal body weight per day in raw food. For example, a 4 kg (9 lb) cat would typically need 80–120 grams of raw food daily. This can vary based on age, activity level, metabolism, and whether you're feeding complete meals or toppers. For kittens or lactating cats, the percentage is higher — around 5–10% of their weight daily. Always start with guidelines from the brand or a vet, then adjust as needed.
4. What supplements are essential when making homemade raw food for cats?
Answer:
Cats require specific nutrients not always present in raw meat alone. Critical supplements include:
- Taurine – essential for heart and vision health.
- Calcium – usually from bone or egg shell powder.
- Vitamin E & B-complex – for immune and nervous system support.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – from fish oil (not plant-based oils).
- Liver or synthetic Vitamin A – for vision and organ health.
Missing these can lead to severe deficiencies, so either use a vet-formulated recipe or a complete supplement designed for raw-fed cats.
5. What signs should I watch for that raw food isn't suiting my cat?
Answer:
If raw feeding isn't working for your cat, you may notice:
- Soft or frequent stools
- Vomiting or gagging at meals
- Lethargy or reduced appetite
- Weight loss
- Unusual coat condition or dandruff
- Signs of nutrient deficiency (e.g., dilated pupils, weakness, dental problems)
If any of these symptoms arise, stop feeding raw and consult a vet immediately. Not every cat thrives on raw, and adjustments or alternatives may be necessary.
Raw feeding for cats can be rewarding, but it’s not a decision to take lightly. If you’re curious, speak first with your vet, ideally one with experience in feline nutrition. Do your research, start with reputable brands, and keep hygiene front of mind. Whether you stick with kibble, wet food, or explore raw, the most important thing is providing a safe, balanced diet that keeps your cat purring for years to come.
Have you tried raw feeding with your cat? What worked, what didn’t, and what tips would you share with fellow owners? Pop your thoughts in the comments — your experiences could help another pet owner make the right choice.
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