Health Benefits of Raw Pet Food for Cats & Dogs

A minimally processed raw diet can offer several health benefits for cats and dogs over more processed commercial pet foods. Fresh Is Best® freeze-dried raw dog foods and cat foods make sure your pets get these natural, raw ingredients, which provide essential nutrients in their most bioavailable forms. This approach ensures that pets receive the maximum nutritional benefits, leading to improved health and longevity. Transitioning to a raw diet can be a game-changer for pet owners looking to enhance the well-being of their furry companions.

Improved Digestibility

Raw diets are significantly more digestible than kibble or canned foods, with digestibility rates ranging from 90-95% (American Veterinary Medical Association). Because raw pet foods have high digestibility, pets absorb more nutrients, leading to better overall health. The improved nutrient absorption is primarily due to the presence of natural enzymes in raw food, which aid in breaking down food more efficiently. This enhanced digestion reduces the burden on pets’ digestive systems and results in smaller, firmer stools, indicating better nutrient utilization.

Raw Meat & Organ Meat Critical for Protein & Enzymes

Raw meats (like chicken, beef, pork, and lamb) and organ meats (like liver, kidneys, and hearts) are commonly used in raw diets. Both high-quality raw and organ meats provide proteins and amino acids essential for muscle maintenance and repair, as well as vitamins A, B, and iron, which are crucial for metabolic processes and energy production. These nutrients play a pivotal role in maintaining overall health, supporting organ function, and enhancing immune response. Raw foods naturally contain digestive enzymes that aid in breaking down food. These enzymes are often destroyed during the cooking process of commercial pet foods. The preservation of these enzymes in raw diets supports better digestion and nutrient absorption, leading to improved overall health.

Increased Energy and Vitality

Pets on raw diets often exhibit higher vitality, likely due to the nutrient balance in raw diets. The natural, unprocessed ingredients in raw pet food, such as high-quality meats, organ meats, whole fruits, vegetables, fish, and fish bone meal, provide essential nutrients, high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins that support overall health and sustained energy levels. This nutrient-rich diet helps pets maintain peak physical condition and improves their quality of life.

Nutrient-Rich Fruits, Vegetables, & Meats

Raw pet foods use raw fruits and vegetables like kale, yams, and apples to provide antioxidants and vitamins that protect cells from damage and support overall health. Additionally, fruits and vegetables provide dietary fiber that supports gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for optimal digestion and nutrient absorption, contributing to increased energy and vitality.

Raw meat and organ meat help to optimize the metabolic process, maintain and repair muscle, and provide the energy required for daily activities. Fish bone meal provides omega-3 fatty acids to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation. These components collectively enhance physical stamina, reduce fatigue, and promote an active lifestyle for pets.

Weight Management and Metabolism Improvement

Higher Protein Levels & Low Glycemic Vegetables

Raw pet food diets can support better weight control and improved metabolism. Due to the higher protein content of raw cat and dog foods and the absence of unnecessary carbohydrates found in commercial pet foods, pets can maintain a healthy weight and an efficient metabolism, contributing to their overall vitality and well-being. This balanced nutritional approach helps prevent obesity and related health issues, ensuring pets stay fit and healthy.

Raw pet foods contain low-glycemic vegetables like kale, pumpkin, collard greens, winter squash, and parsnips, which provide fiber and essential vitamins while maintaining low-calorie counts, aiding in weight management. Sea vegetables (kelp) and other supplemental ingredients (oyster shell powder) help support metabolism and weight management. These ingredients help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce cravings, and support a healthy metabolic rate.

Switching to a raw pet food diet can offer significant health benefits for cats and dogs. From improved digestibility to increased energy levels and effective weight management, these are just a few of the benefits. The natural, minimally processed, raw ingredients help pets get their nutrients in their most bioavailable forms. By choosing a raw diet, pet owners can help ensure their furry companions lead healthier, more vibrant lives.