Understanding Raw Food Diet for Pets
A raw food diet for pets typically includes uncooked meat, bones, organs, fruits, and vegetables. The goal is to mimic what animals might eat in the wild.
1. Types of Raw Diets
BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food): Includes raw meat, bones, fruits, and vegetables.
Prey Model Raw: Focuses on whole prey animals and omits fruits and vegetables.
2. Perceived Benefits
Natural Diet: Mimics the natural diet of wild animals.
Dental Health: Chewing on raw bones can help clean teeth.
Improved Digestion: Some owners report better digestion and smaller stools.
Healthy Coat and Skin: Can lead to a shinier coat and healthier skin.
Increased Energy Levels: Pets may show increased vitality and energy.
3. Potential Risks
Increased Risk of Antibiotic Resistance: Exposure to bacteria in raw food can contribute to development of antibiotic-resistant infections, which can affect both pets and humans.
Nutritional Imbalance: Without proper knowledge, diets can be unbalanced and lack essential nutrients. This is especially important in growing animals, where an appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is critical for healthy bone development.
Bacterial Contamination: Raw food can carry bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli or Listeria, which can be harmful to pets and humans.
Bone Hazards: Bones can cause choking, blockages, and/or fractured teeth.
4. Safety Tips
Consult a Veterinarian: Always consult with your vet, or a veterinary nutritionist, before starting a raw diet.
Balanced Diet: Ensure the diet includes all necessary nutrients and supplements. Resources of supplements are listed below, to be used in combination with a veterinary nutritionist.
Hygiene: Practice good hygiene, such as washing and disinfecting hands, surfaces, and dishes thoroughly after each meal. Clean the muzzle of your pet after meal time.
Immune compromised: Do not feed if there are any people or animals in the household with a compromised immune system. This includes the young and old, as well as anyone on immune suppressants.
5. Monitoring Your Pet
Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits to monitor your pet’s health and dietary needs.
Observation: Keep an eye on your pet’s weight, coat condition, energy levels, and stool quality.
6. Common Myths
Bones are Always Safe: Bones are so hard they can cause fractured teeth and may have sharp edges which irritate or perforate the gastrointestinal system.
Raw Diets are Always Healthier: A raw diet isn't automatically healthier; it must be well-balanced and appropriate for the pet and household.
All Pets Thrive on Raw Food: Not all pets may benefit from a raw diet; individual needs vary.
7. Resources for Further Reading
CVMA Position
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) finds there is compelling evidence for health risks to pets fed raw meat-based (RMB) pet food products, including raw meat-based diets (RMBD), and to humans who are in contact with such products or in contact with pets that consume them. The CVMA holds that the scientific evidence of animal and human health risks in feeding RMB pet food products outweighs any purported benefits.
Disclaimer
Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your pet’s diet. This information sheet is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
