Raw Feeding Basics

Dogs and cats do not have salivary amylase (type of enzyme produced by the salivary glands in the mouth used to break down starch when chewing food). As carnivores, dogs and cats have teeth that are meant for tearing and shearing meat. Unlike the true omnivores (like humans),which have both the canine-like teeth and flat molars which can tear meat and grind plant matter.

Essentially fatty acids are crucial because it's not something your body can produce on its own so we must get from our diet. Omega fatty acids are chains of carbon molecules linked with single or double bonds. Many pets suffers from inflammation which can eventually lead to cancer and other life threatening diseases. Some other benefits include but not limited to: - Healthy skin and coat - Brain development - Ligament support - Joint support - Arthritis - Heart support

Transitioning animals to a raw diet is a common question, but it's actually easier than you may think. There are two different approaches depending on the situation. If the animal has a medical issue that requires an immediate switch to a raw diet, we recommend the cold turkey method. However, it's important to note that this approach can come with complications. To help with a smooth transition, we recommend products like Gut Soothe from Adored Beast ( They have a cat version). These supplements can aid in digestion and support your pet's overall health during the transition. Personally, I prefer the cold turkey route for most cases. For more sensitive animals or those who may not tolerate a sudden change, a slow transition is recommended. Start by incorporating 25% of the new raw food into their meals and gradually increase this percentage over a week until they are consuming 100% raw food. If even this gradual transition feels too fast for your pet, you can take a step back and go even slower. In some cases, even a slow transition may not be sufficient. If you find yourself in this situation, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance. We're here to help ensure a successful transition for your furry friend.

Taurine is an essential amino acid that plays a critical role in various bodily functions. It is particularly important for conjugating bile acids, supporting anti-oxidation, osmoregulation, membrane stabilization, and modulation of calcium signaling. Additionally, taurine is necessary for normal eye development, digestion, heart function, fetal development, and a healthy immune system. Insufficient levels of taurine in the body can lead to heart diseases such as Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in both dogs and cats. In cats, a lack of taurine can also cause Central Retinal Degeneration (CDR) and DCM. Since cats do not produce their own taurine, it is imperative to include it in their diet. Taurine is naturally found in various food sources, including dark muscle meat, organs like the heart, kidney, and liver, as well as seafood. It is also present in small amounts in dairy products and eggs. These natural sources can provide the necessary taurine for pets, ensuring their overall well-being.

Raw food has a higher moisture content, which means that pets on a raw diet may not need to drink as much water to stay hydrated. However, if you notice that your pet is drinking excessive amounts of water even on a raw diet, it's important to bring this to the attention of your veterinarian. It could be a sign of an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed. On a raw diet, it is common for pets to have smaller and less frequent bowel movements, typically 1 to 2 times a day. This is because raw food is more easily digested, resulting in less waste production. If you notice any significant changes in your pet's bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation, it's best to consult with your veterinarian for further guidance."

Feeding guidelines for dogs and cats can vary depending on various factors, making it a situational decision. Generally, it is recommended to feed them 3-4% of their body weight if they are active. This can be achieved by providing 3% of raw food and adding 1% of toppers to increase calorie intake while also providing additional nutrients they need. The 3-4% guideline also applies to puppies, but you should base the amount on their expected adult weight. For instance, if you expect a puppy to reach 100lbs, you would feed them 3-4lbs of food, divided into several meals throughout the day. It's important to always assess the dog or cat in front of you and adjust their feeding accordingly. If the animal appears thin, it may be necessary to feed them more, while if they appear overweight, it may be appropriate to feed them less. Remember, the specific feeding requirements can differ for each individual dog and cat, taking into account factors such as breed, age, and activity level.

We acknowledge that meat naturally contains sufficient levels of taurine, which may eliminate the need for additional supplementation. However, we understand that some pets, particularly those at risk or already suffering from heart issues, may benefit from extra taurine or heart muscle meat in their diet. To support their cardiovascular health, we offer supplements specifically designed to provide additional support to the cardiovascular system. While our blends already contain generous amounts of heart muscle meat, these supplements can further enhance the overall heart health of pets in need. We believe in offering a comprehensive range of options to cater to the specific needs of different pets. If you would like more information about the supplements we offer or if there are any other questions you have, please feel free to let us know.

We are going to stay no here. However, we always recommend using your intuition and common sense. If it smells and feels off, don't feed it. We all have left a bag out or didn't use the food before the three days, and those cases just tossed it to be safe. The truth is, dogs and cats are built for this. They have a shorter digestive tract so bacteria can't set up shop and have higher pH levels in their stomach to kill bacteria. This all points towards an ancestral evolution, raw fed or not. Anything can be dangerous if used/done incorrectly, still have doubts? Just email us any questions you have.

While it's important to find a vet who respects your views and supports your choices, it's also essential to consider a balanced perspective. Veterinary professionals undergo extensive training and have knowledge that can greatly benefit your pet's health and well-being. It's always a good idea to have open and honest conversations with your vet about your preferences, including raw feeding or alternative medicine. If you find that your current vet is not receptive to your choices, it may be worth seeking a second opinion from another professional. Look for a vet who has experience or knowledge in raw feeding or holistic approaches, as they may be more aligned with your preferences. Remember, finding a vet who understands and respects your beliefs is essential for building a trusting and collaborative relationship. Ultimately, as a pet owner, you are your pet's best advocate. It's crucial to gather information from various sources, including veterinary professionals, and make informed decisions based on what you feel is best for your pet's individual needs.

Dealing with loose stools can be a bit unpleasant, but it's an important topic to address. Understanding your pet's poop can provide valuable insights into their health. While occasional loose, watery, mucousy, or slightly bloody stools are usually not a cause for alarm, it's essential to address the issue and find a solution. If you've recently transitioned your pet to a raw diet, loose stool is a common occurrence. Just like humans, sometimes their bodies need time to adjust to new foods. It could be a matter of their gut building healthy bacteria or achieving a balanced pH in the stomach. In such cases, taking a step back and introducing supplements like slippery elm, Larch, or cruciferous vegetables for added fiber can be beneficial. Adding a pre and probiotic or digestive enzyme can also help.