The perfect first-timers guide to raw feeding for dogs of any life stage.
Let's start with some common FAQ's when it comes to your raw pet feeding debut:
1. Is it normal for my dog to vomit after raw feeding for the first time?
If you are new to a raw food diet, your pet may experience some natural reactions when feeding raw food for the first time. Do not be alarmed; it's normal to experience some natural reactions, so expect some gastrointestinal issues initially. Vomiting can also occur if your pets are gulping their food. Introducing a slow-feeding bowl or mat will reduce gulping and slow down digestion. It is recommended to semi-freeze the food into their slow feeder to allow for more licking, enhancing the feeding experience; they will enjoy the texture; many find this method very appealing, especially dogs that are not a fan of the raw food aromas.
Check out our starter feeding guide here to learn more if it's your first time.
2. Is it normal for my pet to get diarrhoea or loose stools?
Yes, it is perfectly normal that some dogs will experience stool reactions at first due to their gastrointestinal tract health. This is because your pet's stomach needs time to adjust to the new raw food, and their body needs time to digest and process the new raw food they may not be used to.
Check out our starter feeding guide here to learn more if it’s your first time.
3. What is the best way to transition my dog to a raw-feeding diet?
During the transition, start with small amounts of the new raw food, offering it as a snack-size meal, gradually adding more each day till the desired daily feeding amount has been reached over two weeks. Some pets may take longer, take it slow and gradually build up; this may take up to two months to comfortably digest, allowing optimal time to process the new raw food with their body starting to produce the necessary enzymes.
4. How long will it take my dog to transition to raw pet food?
Transitioning to a raw pet food diet can take anywhere from two weeks to two months, depending on your dog’s stomach health, breed, and life stage. Patience is vital; do not give up; your pet will thank you for your perseverance in making a better choice with the food you offer.
Check out our starter feeding guide here to learn more if it’s your first time.
5. What protein should I start with for raw pet feeding?
We recommend our Turkey because this is a low-fat, single-protein white meat that is more gentle on your pet's digestive system and is easier to tolerate at first. Over time, you may look to introduce new proteins such as Beef, Roo or Duck - ensure to introduce the new protein slowly to eventually offer all proteins in rotation with a meaty bone once a week.
6. Can I cook raw pet food?
Some pets may be suited to a more cooked diet; this approach is highly successful with picky eaters and pets with impaired immune systems. It is perfectly safe to cook the meal during the transition period, following our recommendations,
- Day 1-3 ¾ cooked through
- Day 4-6 ½ cooked through
- Day 7-14 ¼ cooked through
- Week 2: serve the meal entirely raw
7. Can I mix both dry dog food and raw pet food at the same time?
Do not mix raw pet food with carbohydrate toppers or fillers like rice, pasta or kibble, as they will metabolise into sugars that cause further inflammation and negatively impact their gut health.
Free Raw Feeding Consultation:
If you have any questions, please call 0407 224 518 or email us for advice hello@rightstartpetfood.au
