Raw & homemade: Pros, cons, and what you need to know
I’ll never forget the day I decided to give my dog a raw meal instead of the usual kibble. Initially, it seemed like an exciting venture—less processed food, more fresh ingredients—but I quickly realized there’s a lot more to raw and homemade diets than just tossing a piece of meat into a bowl. Through trial, error, and plenty of research, I’ve gathered insights on both the benefits and the drawbacks of these feeding options. In this post, I want to share what I’ve learned so that, if you’re curious about going raw or making your own pet food, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting into.
.png)
Feeding your pet a raw or homemade diet can look incredibly appealing at first glance. Advocates point to shinier coats, healthier teeth, and the avoidance of many artificial additives found in heavily processed commercial foods. With raw meals, there is often an emphasis on giving pets a diet that more closely mirrors what their wild ancestors would have eaten. Homemade recipes, on the other hand, grant you full control over every single ingredient. This control can be especially beneficial if you’re dealing with allergies or sensitivities, since you can exclude problematic foods and ensure your pet’s meals are free from fillers and preservatives. Yet, even with these advantages, it’s important to weigh certain drawbacks. Raw feeding can increase the risk of bacterial contamination if proper handling and storage practices aren’t followed. Salmonella, E. coli, and other pathogens pose a danger not just to pets but also to the humans around them. Homemade diets, while offering plenty of freedom, can sometimes lead to nutritional imbalances if you don’t follow a scientifically based recipe. Pets need specific ratios of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals to thrive, and even a small oversight can become a big problem over time. When considering raw or homemade diets, starting with a professional consultation is often best. Speaking to a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist can help you design a plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs. For instance, a puppy has vastly different nutritional requirements than a senior dog, and a cat’s needs differ from a dog’s. A vet can guide you on the right mix of ingredients and point you toward reputable supplements if necessary. If you’re opting for raw meat, learning and practicing rigorous food safety is also paramount—washing hands thoroughly, sanitizing surfaces, and properly storing meat can reduce health risks for everyone in the household. Another aspect to keep in mind is cost and time. Buying high-quality raw meat can be more expensive than grabbing a bag of kibble, and you’ll likely spend more time in the kitchen prepping and packaging meals in advance. Some people find the extra effort worthwhile for the potential health benefits and peace of mind. Others may decide that a premium commercial food meets their standards without the extra work.
Ultimately, deciding whether a raw or homemade diet is right for your pet depends on factors like your schedule, budget, and commitment to learning proper nutrition. While the possibility of a healthier coat, fewer allergic reactions, and improved overall vitality is enticing, it’s crucial not to overlook potential downsides. If you choose to embrace a raw or homemade approach, take it slow and stay informed. Small steps—like gradually introducing new ingredients, confirming that each meal is “complete and balanced,” and remaining in close contact with a vet—can help safeguard your pet’s health. Many pet parents find a middle ground by combining high-quality commercial foods with occasional homemade or raw components, ensuring variety without fully committing to the complexities of 100% raw or homemade feeding. No matter which path you take, remember that the goal is to nourish your pet with a diet that aligns with their unique needs and your ability to maintain it safely.
