So what are the benefits of feeding raw?
Cleaner Teeth
Dental disease is a common illness in pets today. ‘Doggy breath’ is not normal and may be an indicator of periodontal disease. Pets fed a raw diet that includes raw meaty bones, have to chew soft bone and meat. This scrapes plaque off their teeth and provides a gum massage that increases circulation. Read more here. Kibble has no such benefits and in fact, the added carbs cause more plaque and tartar build up.
Less Poop
Raw meat and bones are digested more completely than processed meat, fillers or grains. So a raw fed pet will have very small and less smelly poops that biodegrade easily.
Shinier Coat
Pets fed a raw diet have a shinier coat. This is because of the high nutrient value and essential fatty acids in a balanced raw diet. The coat will also have less odour and feel less greasy. Some owners also report less shedding.
Fewer Allergies
Allergies are common in pets and are usually shown in their skin or coat. Kibble is filled with grains, fillers, dyes and preservatives and there is growing evidence that the rise in allergies may be linked to an inappropriate diet. Some pets are allergic to certain proteins as well.
A raw diet may help reduce or eliminate food allergy symptoms and result in another benefit: lower vet bills!
Reduced risk of arthritis & bone disease
This is another common disease in dogs. It may be due to a kibble diet high in carbs and low in essential fatty acids. Studies in humans show a link between diet and these conditions. There is also evidence that certain foods high in essential fatty acids and omega fatty acids help reduce inflammation. Raw diets are full of these nutritional benefits.
Many kibble diets are high in calories and minerals that cause rapid growth spurts. This can lead to joint disease. Puppies fed a raw diet tend to grow more slowly without uneven bone growth.