Raw Diet for Cats

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Raw feeding for cats explained. Nutritional requirements, safety concerns, commercial raw options, and transitioning from kibble.

Key Information

What You Need to Know

Practical Recommendations

Expert Tips

Understanding the Research

Budgeting for Pet Care

Related Guides

Explore more of our comprehensive pet care resources.

Where can I learn more?

FDA and CDC warn that raw pet diets can carry Salmonella and Listeria, which matter for the people in the house as well as the cat. A complete raw diet still has to meet an AAFCO profile. Cornell's nutrition resources explain the gaps in homemade prey models. Ask a board-certified veterinary nutritionist before you commit.

How often should I take my pet to the vet?

Tell the clinic if a cat is eating raw, because contamination and nutritional balance belong in the exam conversation. Kittens are seen every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks, and raw food is a poor default during that series. Adult cats are examined about once a year, and cats from about 10 years old are often examined every six months, which is when weight and recipe gaps can be discussed. A kitten, a pregnant cat, or a cat in a home with someone immunocompromised is a poor raw-diet candidate, and that is decided at the visit. Vomiting, diarrhea, or a painful belly after a raw meal should be seen the same day.

How can I save money on pet care?

The expensive failure is a nutrient gap or a bout of diarrhea that needs fluids. A complete commercial cat food, with a measured portion, is the cheaper complete meal. If you pursue raw, pay for a formulated recipe once, and handle it like raw meat in the kitchen.

Start a Conversation