Thinking about taking your dog’s or cat’s diet to the next level? Consider going raw.
Raw diets for pets are more popular than ever, and the demand from pet owners is only growing. Raw food diets, available as frozen food patties or as dehydrated raw chunks, are simple and convenient to feed. These diets are the closest foods on the market to what your pet’s wild ancestors would have eaten.
Raw foods consisting of high-quality meats and bone, with some fruit and veggies, are ideal diets for dogs and cats. They deliver many lifestyle benefits ranging from improved digestive health, to cleaner teeth, to a shinier skin and coat.
Since proper nutrition is essential for optimal overall health, let’s look at why so many pet owners now more than ever are turning to frozen and dehydrated raw foods.
Biologically Appropriate
Let’s face it, dogs and cats in the wild do not eat cooked food. Their bodies are perfectly designed to consume raw, uncooked meat. Many dogs and cats with digestion problems see significant improvements on a raw diet as it may be easier to digest compared to processed, dry kibbles.
Skin and Coat
Say goodbye to excessive shedding and dry, flaky skin.
While there are many topical treatments for skin and coat problems, a healthy skin and coat truly comes from within. High-quality frozen raw diets are made from whole ingredients that provide your dog or cat with the balanced unprocessed nutrition they need, and with that comes a shinier, healthier skin and coat.
Dental Health
Raw meat contains live digestive enzymes that help break down and prevent dental build up. The fine, ground bone acts as a gentle abrasive to scrub teeth. Raw foods are also less likely to get stuck in the teeth versus other diets.
Hypoallergenic
Since they are not a biologically natural part of a dog’s or cat’s diet, raw diets do not contain any grain. Many dogs and cats suffer from sensitivities and intolerances to certain grains, so eliminating them altogether makes sense.
Raw diets generally contain limited ingredients. A limited ingredient diet is ideal for pets with dietary restrictions, allergies, and sensitivities.
No Synthetic Ingredients
Healthy raw food ingredients are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and essential amino acids. Once you begin to cook or process those ingredients, you begin to compromise their nutritional value. Since raw diets are uncooked, your dog or cat is ensured to receive optimal unprocessed nutrition.
Whether you decide to feed your pet a frozen or dehydrated (or both!) diet, there are many pre-made options available made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients.
Feeding a raw diet to dogs and cats is a simple, safe, and effective way to ensure they are getting the best nutrition possible.
Brandon Forder – also known as The Pet Expert – is Vice President of Canadian Pet Connection, a family-owned and -operated business located in Meaford. He has over twenty years experience specializing in pet nutrition, behaviour and lifestyle. Canadian Pet Connection is an industry leader committed to providing their clients with the highest levels of personal, attentive service. Learn more at www.CanadianPetConnection.com.
