Raw Feeding 101: Avoiding Common Mistakes for a Balanced Diet for your Pet

We’ll share what not to do (and what to do instead) when switching your cat or dog’s diet to raw food and treats.

Mistake 1: Feeding Pets Raw Meat Meant for Humans

This is one of the most common mistakes made by pet owners looking to ditch dry kibble. It’s tempting to head to the grocery store, pick up some beef or poultry, and feed it to your pet. After all, you only want what’s best for them.

But, feeding your pet raw hamburger, chicken or turkey can be a danger to your pet’s health. Uncooked beef and poultry from the grocery store can be contaminated and contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and more.

This can also result in nutritional imbalances in your pet’s food. While meat should be a staple of your cat or dog’s diet, vital organs and bones are essential for providing added nutrients and balance in their food, too.

That’s why Vital Essentials food is based on the ALPHA Prey-Model diet with a ratio generally containing 45% muscle meat, 45% organs, and 10% bone content. To ensure food safety and freshness, we don’t rely on third-party processors and co-packers. We manufacture and package products in our facilities so you can be confident that you’re getting the healthiest, safest food for your pet.

Mistake 2: Giving Unsafe Bones as Treats

Many well-meaning pet owners give their dogs and cats leftover bones that have been cooked because bones seem like natural, healthy treats. However, cooked bones can break into shards and cause problems in your pet’s digestive tract. Cooked bones become brittle and are more likely to break apart. Healthy alternatives for your pet can include freeze-dried chews.

Vital Essentials offers raw, natural chews that are safe and nutritious. Our Freeze-Dried Salmon Skins are a big hit with feline and canine friends alike and contain Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids, which are great for a shiny coat and healthy skin. Dogs enjoy Vital Essentials Dried Pig Ears and Pig Snouts for dental health, a nutritional boost between meals, ample mental stimulation, and added protein.

Mistake 3: Not Considering Supplemental Pet Options

While Vital Essentials is raw pet food in complete and balanced containing all the nutrients and protein your pet needs, our toppers and tripe options are an excellent way to provide an added boost of protein and probiotics. Our Beef Tripe Nibblets, for example, promote digestive health and boost your pet’s immune system.

Mistake 4: Transitioning Too Quickly

Transitioning pets to new food too quickly is a common pitfall amongst pet owners that can cause stomach upset. Luckily, it’s easy to transition your pet to Vital Essentials raw food. You can take up to 10 days to transition your pet to Vital Essentials food based on how quickly they take to it. Below is the ideal way to transition your pet to Vital Essentials raw food, and you can also see this guide for more tips.

If you follow these guidelines and avoid the common mistakes we mentioned above, you’ll be well on your way to providing the benefits of a raw diet to your pet!

For more information on Vital Essentials and our full product line, follow us on TikTok and Instagram. And if you have any questions, be sure to check out our FAQ page for answers. Together, we can ensure your pet gets the proper nutrition they deserve.