9 Benefits of Feeding Raw Meat to Cats: Boosting Vitality, Improving Health, and Bringing Cats Back to Life

9 Benefits of Feeding Raw Meat to Cats: Boosting Vitality, Improving Health, and Bringing Cats Back to Life

Since adopting your feline companion, you've always wanted to give them the best. From food and water to sleeping arrangements, your cat's health is always a top priority. Beyond cat treats, canned food, and snacks, health-conscious cat owners have set their sights on raw meat. Most people hear "raw meat" and immediately think, "Is that even safe for a domesticated cat?"

Cats, as obligate carnivores, need a constant supply of protein. Feeding only kibble leads to a monotonous diet, inadequate protein intake, and subsequent health issues like malnutrition and liver problems.

What is raw meat?

BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is a diet that reflects the natural eating habits of an animal. It includes raw meat, organs, bones, and supplements to create a nutritionally balanced diet for cats. Dr. Ian Billinghurst, an Australian veterinarian, popularized the BARF diet in the 1990s. He believed that dogs and cats, as carnivores, should be fed a raw meat diet, mirroring their ancestral diet, instead of processed cooked food.

Raw meat, simply put, is uncooked meat with bone and organs. Common raw meat options include rabbit, deer, chicken, duck, shrimp, mussels, and fish.

Benefits of feeding raw meat to cats

If you're still hesitant to make the switch to raw meat, know that once your cat transitions, the benefits will become evident.

1. Increased vitality

Raw meat helps awaken a cat's natural instincts to hunt. Cats' wild ancestors survived by capturing and consuming prey, which meant raw meat was their primary food source. Raw meat keeps cats energetic and more intelligent.

2. Lean and strong physique

Raw meat is packed with protein, fat, minerals, and trace elements to meet a cat's nutritional needs. Excess fat is shed while muscle mass increases, making cats look more energetic and improving their metabolism, activity levels, and lifespan.

3. Dental problems vanish

This is a noticeable change that occurs quickly with a raw meat diet. Bad breath disappears, leaving behind clean, sparkling teeth. This is a welcome change for pet owners, especially when it comes to protecting your own hands from bites!

4. Skin problems fade away

Raw meat, untouched by cooking, retains its essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to shiny fur. You'll notice your cat's coat becoming deep, glossy, and healthy, replacing any dull, damaged fur that was present before.

5. Ear infections clear up

Those persistent ear problems finally disappear. Raw meat strengthens the immune system by providing balanced essential fatty acids and other nutrients that aid in immune function. This helps reduce inflammation and control infection. Imagine the joy of your cat when their ears are finally free of discomfort!

6. Anal gland issues vanish

Feeding bone produces solid stool which is crucial for emptying the anal glands. Raw meat is easily absorbed and digested, leading to less stool production, and since it doesn't contain preservatives or other chemicals, the odor of a cat's stool will be significantly reduced.

7. Arthritis disappears

Within weeks or months, you'll see a noticeable increase in your cat's mobility. This is why so many senior pets experience rejuvenation when they switch to a raw meat diet. Incorporating healthy fats, antioxidant vitamins, leafy greens, and reducing red meat can significantly improve arthritic symptoms.

8. Urinary incontinence disappears

Urinary incontinence is often caused by hormonal imbalances. So, when cats switch to raw meat, the disappearance of this symptom highlights the diet's excellent hormonal balancing abilities.

9. Hydration

You'll notice that cats on a raw meat diet drink less water. Over time, raw meat prevents crystal and stone formation in urine through various mechanisms, significantly improving kidney health - a leading cause of death in pets today.

What should you know about feeding raw meat?

It's best to introduce raw meat to kittens as early as possible so their jaws can develop the strength to handle meat with bone. For adult cats transitioning to raw meat, it's recommended to feed pure canned food for 3-5 days prior to the switch to ease their transition from plant-based proteins to animal proteins.

All raw meat must be frozen for at least 48 hours to reduce microbial activity. Thaw meat in the refrigerator. Any leftover raw meat should be discarded immediately after the recommended time. Raw meat is the natural food for cats and the "gold standard" for any carnivore's diet. For the sake of your cat's health, try raw meat feeding!

Final Thoughts

Feeding raw meat to your cat is not a quick fix and requires a commitment from pet owners. However, as your cat's health improves, you'll see the true value of this diet.

Choose high-quality raw meat: Opt for fresh, uncontaminated meat, ensuring food safety.
Maintain hygiene: Strictly follow freezing and thawing procedures to avoid bacterial contamination.
Monitor your cat's reactions: Your cat's digestive system needs time to adjust. Observe their bowel movements and make adjustments as needed.
Supplement nutrition: Raw meat requires additional vitamins and minerals to ensure your cat receives comprehensive nutrition.
Observe long-term: Monitor your cat's health over time and adjust the proportion and types of raw meat as needed.

Feeding raw meat is a long-term process that requires patience and attentiveness. With dedication and practice, a raw meat diet can help your beloved pet thrive and enjoy a happier life!

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