Getting Started with Raw Feeding

It may, from the outset, seem daunting to get into the raw feeding realm. But like anything, it’s good to do a bit of research, ask a friend or your local raw feeding store about the best way to get started with raw feeding.

Obviously if you are considering feeding raw to your pets, you are concerned about getting it right. There is a science behind it, and you need to ensure your pet gets the correct ratio of nutrients to support their health and nutritional needs.

It’s important to feed a balance of meat, organ, bone and tripe – and from a variety of protein sources, ideally 3 or more.

Meats – in the form of minces (bone in & organ in or boneless meat)

Meaty Bones - from wild or farmed animals, eg. brisket, ribs, neck.

Green Tripe – this is important for stimulating stomach acids to break down meat and bones. It is also an important source of probiotics for a healthy system.

Organ – it is important not to over feed organ to pets, especially liver. Ideally no more than a couple of times per week.

Working out the weight of what to feed is as simple as following the below feeding chart based on the weight of your pet. The ideal amount to feed for maintenance is 2% of your pet’s body weight, but this increases for active dogs, growth spurts and nursing dogs. (Please let us know if you would like a feeding chart for cats.)

DOGS – AMOUNT PER DAY (in grams)

If you have any concerns in regards to your pet’s health or they have health issues it is advisable to talk to your vet first before changing their diet or introducing raw food. There are a number of vets around New Zealand who are pro raw feeding, ask around for recommendations. You can also join Raw Feeding groups on Facebook, these are the ideal platforms to ask for advice.