When most people think of raw feeding, they think of dogs. But a species-appropriate raw diet can be just as transformative for cats and many other small animals. At Natural Dog Co, we're passionate about natural nutrition for all pets — and that starts with understanding what each species is truly designed to eat.
Raw Feeding for Cats
Cats are obligate carnivores — meaning they are biologically required to eat meat to survive. Unlike dogs, cats cannot thrive on a plant-based or heavily processed diet. They need animal protein, animal fat, and specific nutrients like taurine, arachidonic acid, and vitamin A that are only found in animal tissue. A raw diet is arguably even more important for cats than it is for dogs.
Benefits of Raw Feeding for Cats
- Improved urinary health — raw food has a high moisture content, which supports kidney function and reduces the risk of urinary tract issues, a common problem in cats fed dry food
- Healthier weight — high protein, low carbohydrate raw diets help cats maintain a lean, healthy body condition
- Better digestion — smaller, firmer stools and reduced digestive upset are commonly reported after switching to raw
- Shinier coat and healthier skin — the natural fats in raw meat nourish from the inside out
- Improved dental health — chewing raw meat and bone helps keep teeth clean naturally
- More energy and vitality — real food fuels real cats
What to Feed a Raw Cat
Cats do best on a diet of raw muscle meat, organ meat (particularly liver, which is rich in taurine), and raw meaty bone. A balanced raw cat diet typically follows an 80/10/10 ratio — 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ (with at least half of that being liver).
Good protein choices for cats include chicken, turkey, rabbit, duck, and fish. Variety is key — rotating proteins helps ensure a broad nutritional profile and prevents intolerances from developing.
We always recommend consulting your vet before making changes to your cat's diet, particularly if your cat has existing health conditions or has been on the same food for a long time.
Transitioning Your Cat to Raw
Cats can be notoriously fussy eaters, and some — particularly those that have only ever eaten dry kibble — may take time to accept raw food. Patience is key. Try introducing raw gradually alongside their current food, warming it slightly to enhance the aroma, or mixing in a small amount of something they already love. Most cats come around in time, and the results are well worth the effort.
Raw Feeding for Ferrets
Like cats, ferrets are obligate carnivores and thrive on a raw meat diet. A prey model raw diet — whole prey or raw meaty bones — is considered the gold standard for ferret nutrition. Ferrets fed raw diets typically show improved coat condition, better dental health, and more stable energy levels. Good protein choices include chicken, turkey, rabbit, and whole prey such as mice or chicks.
Raw Feeding for Reptiles and Snakes
Many reptiles — particularly snakes — are natural raw feeders. Snakes are obligate carnivores that thrive on whole prey items such as mice, rats, and chicks. These are best offered frozen and fully defrosted rather than live, as this is safer for both the snake and the prey animal, and reduces the risk of injury. Feeding whole prey ensures snakes receive a nutritionally complete diet including muscle meat, organ, and bone in natural proportions.
For lizards, dietary needs vary significantly by species — some are insectivores, some herbivores, and some omnivores. Always research the specific requirements of your reptile and seek guidance from a specialist reptile vet to ensure their diet is appropriate and balanced.
What About Rabbits and Guinea Pigs?
Rabbits and guinea pigs are herbivores and don't eat meat, but they do thrive on a natural, fresh diet. The foundation of a healthy diet for both is unlimited good quality hay, supplemented with fresh leafy greens and a small amount of fresh vegetables. Processed pellets should be kept to a minimum. Guinea pigs have a specific requirement for vitamin C (which they cannot produce themselves), so fresh leafy greens like kale, parsley, and bell pepper are particularly important.
A Note on Bone Safety
When feeding any raw food containing bone — whether to cats, ferrets, or other animals — always check the food thoroughly before serving and remove any large or sharp bone pieces that may pose a choking or injury risk. Raw bones are generally safe as they are softer and more pliable than cooked bones, but it's always worth taking a moment to check, particularly when feeding smaller animals.
A Note on Veterinary Advice
Every animal is different, and what works brilliantly for one pet may need adjusting for another. We always recommend consulting your vet or a qualified animal nutritionist before making significant changes to your pet's diet — particularly for young animals, seniors, or those with existing health conditions. Raw feeding is a wonderful, natural approach to nutrition, but it works best when it's tailored to your individual pet.
What's Next?
Did you know that many of our natural frozen treats are suitable for cats and other small animals too? From raw meat pieces to fish-based options, they make a brilliant enrichment snack alongside a raw diet. Read our guide to find out which frozen treats are suitable for your pet: Raw Frozen Treats — A Natural Reward for Every Pet.
You can also browse our full range of raw food in store, via local delivery on Deliveroo, or using our Click & Collect service. Browse our Raw Food collection here.
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