3 Myths About Raw Pet Food (and the Truth)
We offer our pets love, shelter and food, but somewhere along the way the evolution of kibble has taken a wrong turn. The processed commercial dog and cat food on the market today was formulated with one thing in mind - convenience. The ease of scooping and pouring dry kibble is comparable to eating fast food delivered to us from a drive through window, and it is oftentimes not a healthy option. An understanding of the very specific nutritional needs of our pets has led many pet owners to the raw pet food diet. Although the controversy surrounding raw pet food for pets is unfounded, there are still those who may not understand the true nature of our domesticated pet's dietary needs or the difference it will make in their overall health and wellbeing. Here are three myths about raw pet food (and the truth).
Feeding Carnivores
Sadly, most pet owners have been feeding their pets food that is over-processed and does not contain the natural, raw proteins they require for optimal health. Research and a basic history of dogs and cats reveal that the digestive systems of domesticated animals have changed little from their ancient, wild ancestors. Felines are obligate(strict) carnivores by nature, meaning the feeding behavior and nutrient needs of a cat are almost exclusively animal meat and cannot survive on a plant-based diet. Canines today are classified as omnivores through several thousand years of domestication and dietary evolution from carnivorous scavenger feeders like wolves. Like humans, a dog's primary food source is animal meat with some of their dietary needs fulfilled through plant foods.
Necessary Ingredients in Pet Food
Unprocessed, whole foods dense in moisture are the healthiest options for our beloved pet's diets. It is our responsibility to understand our animal's nutritional needs. The sad fact is that most pets live their lives eating processed kibble that contains very little of the essential ingredients to live happy, healthy lives by our side. Here is a list of vital ingredients that your pet needs and ingredients that are unnecessary, and even harmful to your pet:
| Necessary Pet Food Ingredients | Unnecessary Pet Food Ingredients |
| Quality Protein like beef, turkey, pork, and poultry | Grains like barley, corn, oats or rice |
| Animal Fat for essential fatty acids | Fillers like bran, hulls, pulp or starch |
| Vegetables and Fruits in small amounts for fiber and antioxidants | Artificial Preservatives like butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), ethoxyquin and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) |
| Natural Preservatives like vitamin E, citric acid, and rosemary extract | Chemicals like artificial coloring, artificial flavor enhancer, and sweeteners |
| Trace Minerals and Vitamins such as zinc, copper, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium and vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K | Byproducts from roadkill condemned parts declared inedible for human consumption, and non-specific meat meals |
Preparing Raw Pet Food
The rules for handling raw pet food are the same as preparing food for yourself and your family. The risk of exposure to harmful bacteria while serving your dog or cat a raw diet is preventable with the FDA's safe handling tips for pet foods and treats. Recommendations for safe handling for all pet food include:
- Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water before and after preparation.
- Use clean utensils, cutting boards and bowls to prepare and serve your pet's meal.
- Properly wash all utensils, cutting boards and bowls in warm, soapy water.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect your work area after all raw meat preparation.
- Store raw meat products in the freezer until you are ready to use them.
- Keep raw foods separate from other food.
Convenient, Frozen Raw Pet Food Delivered to Your Door
The food we feed our pets has a direct impact on their health and wellbeing. Research shows a high protein; low carb diet is the best way to reduce chronic inflammation and metabolic stress. The bottom line is that raw pet food is the best possible way to provide your dog or cat with optimal nutritional benefits. RawPetFood.com delivers affordable and convenient raw frozen pet food right to your door! We provide the healthiest dog and cat food from honest companies who use only the highest quality natural ingredients.
