Question 1

How much raw food should I feed my dog per day?

Accepted Answer

Adult dogs typically eat 2–2.5% of their body weight in raw food daily. A 50lb moderately active adult dog needs approximately 16–20oz (454–567g) of raw food per day, split into 2 meals. Puppies need significantly more — 6–8% of body weight — split into 3 meals. Active dogs may need up to 3–3.5% of body weight.

Question 2

How much raw food should I feed my cat per day?

Accepted Answer

Adult cats typically eat 2–2.5% of their body weight daily. A 10lb adult cat needs approximately 3.2–4oz (90–113g) of raw food per day, split into 2 meals. Kittens need 6–8% of their current body weight split into 3 meals.

Question 3

What is the BARF diet for dogs?

Accepted Answer

BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food. It consists of approximately 60% muscle meat, 15% raw meaty bones, 10% organ meat, 10% vegetables and fruit, and 5% eggs or dairy. Unlike Prey Model Raw, BARF includes plant matter to mimic what a dog might consume from a prey animal's stomach contents.

Question 4

How do I transition my dog to a raw diet?

Accepted Answer

Transition gradually over 4–6 weeks. Start with 25% raw and 75% current food for the first two weeks, then slowly increase the raw proportion. Begin with a single protein source (chicken is easiest) before introducing variety. Expect some digestive adjustment — slightly loose stools for 1–2 weeks is normal.

Question 5

Is raw feeding safe for pets?

Accepted Answer

Raw feeding can be safe when done correctly with balanced nutrition, proper food handling, and sourcing quality ingredients. It carries a small risk of bacterial contamination (Salmonella, E. coli) if not handled hygienically. Always wash hands, surfaces, and bowls thoroughly. Consult your veterinarian, especially if you have immunocompromised people in the household.

Question 6

How much does it cost to raw feed a dog per month?

Accepted Answer

Raw feeding costs vary significantly by size and sourcing. A 50lb dog typically needs 16–20oz of raw food daily. Using supermarket meat, this costs approximately $60–$120/month. Using specialty raw pet food brands can cost $150–$300+/month. Our calculator provides a personalized monthly cost estimate for your pet's size.

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