Raw Meat Diets for Cats and Dogs

Now, let's consider the bacteria in raw meat. Canine and feline digestive tracts are not the same as ours. Supposedly, a healthy dog or cat should be better able to handle the bacteria in meat better than humans can. However, there has been concern raised regarding bacteria. First, humans: we must practice safe meat handling and cleaning up after our pets eat. The bacteria in raw meat can be fatal to a human who is young, elderly or has a weakened immune system. Some cats and dogs on raw diets have persistent diarrhea – not normal. Chronic diarrhea can lead to dehydration and other problems. Also, it can be a sign that the animal is not handling the bacteria well. The bacteria can be fatal in a pet with a weakened immune system or who is already sick. Dr. Lisa Newman, a doctor of Naturopathy with a PhD in holistic nutrition has seen an increase of irritable bowel syndrome, digestive problems and immuno-related weaknesses in animals fed a raw diet on a daily basis.

Are raw diets a fad or are they here to stay? I think they are here to stay. Honestly this scares me. Please understand, I am not fully opposed to the diets. I feel for some animals they can be beneficial. What worries me is the lack of education and knowledge the general person feeding a raw diet has. Good quality processed foods contain everything a dog or cat needs to be healthy and little in the way of additives or unnecessary preservatives. Are raw diets safer than a high quality processed kibble? Maybe they are or maybe not. Should the average person try to make their raw diets? No. It takes time, dedication, lots of research and fully understanding the pros and cons.

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