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Mon. Jun 30th, 2025

Is Raw Food Safe for Cats? How to Store It Properly

Keywords: raw cat food safety, raw diet for cats, how to store raw pet food, BARF diet, freeze-dried raw food for cats

🥩 What Is Raw Cat Food?

Raw cat food refers to a diet consisting of uncooked meat, organs, bones, eggs, and sometimes a small amount of vegetables or supplements. It is often called a BARF diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food).

Supporters of raw feeding believe it’s closer to what cats would naturally eat, potentially boosting immunity, improving coat quality, and reducing stool odor. However, it also comes with health risks if not handled properly.

✅ Potential Benefits of Raw Feeding

  • 🦷 Better dental health: Chewing raw bones can help clean teeth and reduce plaque.
  • 🐟 Shinier coat: Rich in protein and natural fats to support skin and fur health.
  • 💪 Stronger immunity: Minimally processed food retains more nutrients.
  • 🚽 Less odor: Smaller, firmer, and less smelly stools.
  • 🐾 Species-appropriate nutrition: Cats are obligate carnivores—this diet mimics what they’d eat in the wild.

⚠️ Risks of Raw Cat Food

  • 🦠 Bacterial contamination: Raw meat can contain Salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria.
  • 🍗 Bone hazards: Improperly prepared bones can cause mouth injuries or intestinal blockages.
  • ⚖️ Nutritional imbalance: Homemade raw diets may lack essential vitamins and minerals.
  • 👨‍👩‍👧 Household health risks: Risk of cross-contamination to children, elderly, or immunocompromised family members.

Raw diets are not suitable for all cats or households. Consult your vet before switching.

📌 Which Cats Should Avoid Raw Food?

  • 👶 Kittens (under 8 months) or senior cats with weak digestion.
  • 🐾 Cats with chronic illness or immune disorders.
  • 🏥 Cats recovering from surgery or recently vaccinated.
  • 🚫 Cats that tend to swallow large chunks or whole bones.

Always get a professional health check before introducing a raw diet.

🥶 How to Store Raw Cat Food Safely

1. Freezer Storage

Raw food should be stored at -18°C (0°F) or below. It’s best to freeze in single-serving portions for up to 3–6 months.

2. Defrosting

  • 🧊 Defrost slowly in the fridge (4°C or 39°F) for 12–24 hours.
  • 🚫 Never microwave or thaw with hot water—it destroys nutrients.

3. Feeding Time

Once thawed, feed within 1–2 hours. Refrigerate leftovers and use within 24 hours. Discard uneaten raw food after that.

4. Cleanliness

  • ✔️ Use separate tools and boards for raw food.
  • ✔️ Clean feeding bowls and prep areas thoroughly.
  • ✔️ Keep raw food away from human food areas.

👨‍⚕️ What Do Vets Think About Raw Diets?

Many vets remain cautious about raw feeding due to the risks of bacterial infection and unbalanced nutrients. For cats with sensitive stomachs, chronic disease, or living in multi-cat homes, extra care is needed.

However, some veterinary nutritionists do support certified commercial raw food brands that follow strict hygiene and balanced formulas.

🏷️ Recommended Raw Cat Food Brands

  • Primal Pet Foods: Uses human-grade ingredients with freeze-drying methods.
  • Stella & Chewy’s: Well-known US brand offering complete raw freeze-dried meals.
  • Instinct Raw: Blends raw bits with kibble for easier transition.
  • ZIWI Peak: New Zealand-based air-dried raw food with high-quality sourcing.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can cats eat raw food long term?

Yes, but only if the diet is nutritionally complete. Choose balanced commercial products or work with a vet nutritionist.

Q: Does raw food make cats aggressive?

No, there’s no evidence raw feeding changes a cat’s behavior. It’s a myth.

Q: Can I feed supermarket raw meat to my cat?

Not recommended. Pet-grade raw meat is safer and formulated for animal consumption.

Q: Are bones safe for cats?

Soft, raw bones like chicken necks are usually safe. Avoid cooked or hard bones to prevent injury.

📌 Final Thoughts: Raw Feeding Isn’t for Everyone

Raw diets can be rewarding but also risky. It requires strict hygiene, nutrition knowledge, and commitment. Not all cats or households are suitable.

If you want to try raw feeding, start with trusted commercial brands and talk to your vet. Otherwise, premium wet or freeze-dried foods are great alternatives.

Always feed based on your cat’s individual needs and consult a professional when in doubt.

    • meowmeow

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