But what are the benefits of changing from processed cat food to natural raw meat?

Pros:

• Healthier fur and skin – some cats are allergic to the grains in processes food, they can get dermatitis
• Clean teeth – a raw diet can lead to healthier teeth and gums
• Natural weight control – carbohydrate in processes can lead to weight problems
• Increased vitality – cat’s are carnivores their digestion works best with raw meat, they will be healthier with more energy
• Less chance of suffering from diabetes

Cons:

• Contaminated meat – if you don’t buy from a reputable outlet there is a danger of salmonella, e coli, listeria
• Cost – raw meat can be more expensive
• Convenience – if you buy frozen meat you have to allow time to thaw – if you buy fresh the meat cannot be stored as long

It is better to feed as small chunks rather than ground to get the best nutrition value from raw meat; grinding can add more bacteria to the meat.

Cats will naturally prey on rabbits so it is an excellent choice for their diet. You may also try other meats such as lamb, also beef liver, heart and kidney are good sources of nutrients, you may have  to mince this and add to other foods if they will not eat it. The food should be room temperature, cats don’t like cold food. Occasionally you can give your cat fish too, but not too much as this can cause health problems.

Don’t feed your cat more than they can eat, you don’t want excess meat laying around all day. Younger cats will need regular small meals, older cats should suffice on two meals a day.

Make sure any bowls, utensils and food surfaces are thoroughly cleaned.

Everything a wild cat needs nutritionally can be found in their prey, and similarly domesticated cats need real meat and bone for a healthy diet.

Related articles

• Raw Food Diet for Cats: A Natural Solution (cats.about.com)
• The Benefits of Raw Dog Food for Dogs (dogslikerawfood.com)
• Myths About Raw Feeding | What About Cats (www.rawfed.com)

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Note: Always consult your local veterinarian before changing a course of treatment.

Natural Heath for Cats & Dogs

Dr. Pitcairn’s Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats

This classic natural pet-care book is written by two celebrated veterinary specialists in chemical-free nutrition, treatment, and natural healing for pets. Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats offers valuable natural and holistic advice on a host of pet topics, including, but not limited to, diet, exercise, environment, coping with a pet’s death, and how to care for a sick animal.

In addition to their thorough discussion of the above, Richard Pitcairn, DVM, PhD, and his wife, Susan Hubble Pitcairn, M.S., offer a comprehensive “quick reference” section on animal illnesses, organized alphabetically and including a brief description of each illness, preventative measures that may be taken, and holistic and natural treatment options for both dogs and cats – treatments that should always be discussed with one’s vet before being used.

Included in this book:
What’s really in commercial foods
Updated fresh food recipes
Special diets
Expanded information on calcium supplements
Non-toxic grooming
Benefits of exercise
How to select a healthy animal
Natural care for common ailments
Alternative treatments with homeopathy, herbs and wholesome foods
First aid tips
And much more!

For more than 20 years, this classic guide has been equally invaluable to both veterinarians and pet guardians alike.
Paperback, 466 pages

Natural Remedies for Cats

Veterinarians’ Guide to Natural Remedies for Cats
By Martin Zucker
An introduction and a guide to the vast world of natural healing methods, treatments, and foods now available for cats. Author Martin Zucker offers advice from dozens of holistic practitioners and licensed veterinarians, who share their recipes, insights, and “prescriptions.”
320 pages

Guide to Natural Pet Care - Cancer

Guide to Natural Pet Care Cancer
By Cal Orey
Comprehensively covers gentle, natural treatments for cancer in both dogs and cats. Delves into the latest scientific research and veterinary clinical trials, as well as actual cases in which pets have been cured by holistic medicine. Each book in this series offers in-depth solutions such as vet-approved dietary changes, supplements, herbs, and treatments including homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, and ultrasound.
46 pages

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