Feeding raw food has become increasingly popular among pet owners who want a more natural diet for their feline companions. However, errors in feeding, preparation, and formulation might still lead to health issues. A healthy and well-balanced raw diet for cats can then be ensured by being aware of these frequent mistakes.
1. Not Providing a Balanced Diet
One of the biggest mistakes is failing to provide a nutritionally complete meal. Many owners assume feeding only raw meat is enough, but this leads to deficiencies. A proper raw cat diet must include the right balance of muscle meat, organs, and bones. Taurine, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins must be included. Without these nutrients, cats may develop serious health problems, including weak bones and heart disease.
How to avoid it: Follow a balanced raw feeding formula. The ideal ratio should be 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organs (with 5% being liver). Use pre-formulated cat food or consult a feline nutritionist if unsure.
2. Improper Handling and Storage
Raw meat can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can pose health risks for both cats and humans. Storing raw food improperly or failing to clean surfaces can cause contamination.
How to avoid it: Always store raw food in airtight containers and keep it frozen. Thaw in the fridge, not at room temperature. Clean all utensils and food bowls immediately after feeding to prevent bacterial buildup.
3. Feeding Only Muscle Meat
Some owners mistakenly think muscle meat alone is enough. However, it lacks calcium and other vital nutrients. A diet without bones or a calcium source can lead to weak bones and fractures.
How to avoid it: A healthy diet must include raw meaty bones or ground bone. Use calcium supplements to maintain a balanced cat food diet if bones are not an option.
4. Incorrect Bone-to-Meat Ratio
Feeding too much or too little bone can cause digestive issues. Remember, too much bone leads to constipation, while too little causes calcium deficiency.
How to avoid it: Maintain a proper ratio of bone to meat. A cat’s diet should contain around 10% bone. Monitor stool consistency—white, hard stools indicate too much bone, while loose stools may mean too little.
5. Not Transitioning Properly
Switching to raw cat food too quickly can cause digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhoea. Cats have sensitive digestive systems, and sudden diet changes can be difficult for them to tolerate.
How to avoid it: Transition slowly. Start by mixing a small amount of raw food with their current diet and gradually increase the raw portion over one to two weeks. Observe any digestive reactions and adjust accordingly.
ALSO READ: Starting Early: When and How to Introduce Your Kitten or Puppy to a Raw Diet
6. Overfeeding or Underfeeding
Many owners guess portion sizes instead of following proper feeding guidelines. Remember, overfeeding leads to obesity, while underfeeding results in malnutrition.
How to avoid it: Feed based on body weight. Cats generally need 2-3% of their body weight in raw food daily. Weigh portions instead of estimating to maintain a healthy balance.
7. Ignoring Food Safety Practices
Poor food safety habits increase the risk of bacterial contamination. Some owners fail to clean preparation surfaces, use proper storage methods, or handle raw food correctly.
How to avoid it: Always wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw food. Store raw meals properly and never leave food out for long periods. Keep feeding areas clean.
8. Not Meeting Individual Nutritional Needs
Every cat has unique dietary needs depending on age, activity level, and health conditions. Kittens, senior cats, and cats with medical conditions may require dietary adjustments.
How to avoid it: Monitor your cat’s health and consult a veterinarian to ensure their diet meets individual nutritional needs. Some cats may need supplements such as fish oil or probiotics.
9. Not Monitoring Health Changes
Feeding raw food without monitoring the cat’s health can lead to undetected issues. Nutrient imbalances, allergies, or digestive problems can develop over time.
How to avoid it: Regularly check body weight, coat condition, and energy levels. Schedule vet visits to ensure the raw diet is benefiting your cat. Adjust the diet as needed based on health assessments.
10. Overlooking Hydration Needs
Although raw diets contain more moisture than dry food, some cats still require additional hydration. After all, dehydration can lead to urinary tract issues.
How to avoid it: Provide fresh water at all times. Adding a little water or bone broth to raw meals can help increase moisture intake. Monitor your cat’s water consumption, especially in warmer weather.
Final Thoughts
Although there are many advantages to BARF cat food, some errors can still jeopardise a cat’s health. Problems can then be avoided by making sure your cat eats a balanced diet, handling food safely, and keeping an eye on their health. Your cat can thrive on raw food if you plan ahead and follow your veterinarian’s advice.
Visit BOM BOM and let us help you make raw feeding simple and safe.