Switching to Raw

Transitioning, especially cats, requires patience and perseverance. We recommend starting by mixing in a minute amount of raw food with the animal’s regular diet (about the size of a pea). Gradually increase the amount added, while decreasing the old food. Watch your animal’s stools during this time and slow the process down if encountering diarrhea or constipation. A period of detoxification is normal, while the body expels toxins (this can manifest in runny eyes, soft stools, skin changes, etc.) The transition phase can take a week or several weeks, as all animals are individuals.

Our raw diets can be cooked, however, that is not how they are intended to be fed long term as full nutrition is achieved through the feeding of raw foods in their natural state. If cooking during transition, please cook lightly in a sauté pan on top of the stove, never in the microwave.

Do not allow your cat to go more than two meals without eating something. If your animal does not take readily to raw – most dogs do – and goes on a “hunger strike,” feel free to use flavor enhancers (during transition) like a small amount of water from canned tuna or their dry kibble crumbled and mixed in. Don’t feed treats between meals; a hungry animal is a more receptive animal. Many cats, especially, become addicted to one brand of kibble and need to be weaned off of it and taught to eat real food. Keep in mind that eventually enticements and cooked and processed foods should be phased out.

Raw food should be kept frozen and thawed in the refrigerator. It can take 24 hours to thaw in the fridge, so plan accordingly. Defrosted raw food has a refrigerator shelf life of three to five days. The food should be served at room temperature. This can be easily achieved by mixing in a small amount of hot water (not too hot and not too much as you don’t want to “cook” the meal). It’s best to feed in stainless steel or glass bowls.

What your animal doesn’t eat within 20 minutes (usually not a problem) should be immediately refrigerated or discarded. Bowls should be washed in hot, soapy water and left to air dry.