The subject of raw vs. cooked cat food is an often hotly debated topic, and recent position statements against raw feeding by several high profile organizations such as the American Veterinary Medical Assocation and the ASPCA have only added fuel to the fire. The amount of misinformation about the so-called dangers of raw feeding is staggering and defies common sense.
I don’t think it’s necessary to take an “all or nothing” stand when it comes to feline nutrition. Raw feeding is not for everyone, and if it exceeds a cat guardian’s comfort level, it’s not the right choice for that cat and that family. However, I do believe that it is important to feed our cats a diet that is as minimally processed as possible.
If you’re not comfortable feeding raw, but want to not only feed a minimally processed diet to your cats, but also be in control of exactly what goes into your cat’s food, you may want to consider making your own cat food. The following resources can help you make a balanced diet for your cat. Some of them will even help you formulate an appropriate diet for cats with health issues.
My favorite resource is Dr. Lisa Pierson’s site, Ctainfo.org. She shares her time tested recipes, along with step-by-step instructions, for raw and lightly cooked diets on her site, in her article titled Making Cat Food. She also shares her reasons for why she decided to make her own cat food.
PetDiets.com is an independent consulting group for veterinary professionals and individual pet owners seeking nutritional advice. They will formulate a diet for healthy pets and pets with health challenges. Fees will vary according to what type of diet is needed.
BalanceIt.com allows you to view and download recipes for healthy pets. Recipes for pets with health issues require a veterinarian’s approval.
Allegra and Ruby have been eating raw food for almost two years now, and both of them are thriving. I barely cook for myself, so I don’t see myself cooking for them. Occasionally, they eat grain-free canned food – both for variety, and because I want to know that they will eat canned food if it would ever become necessary in an emergency situation.
For more on my recommendations, visit the Feline Nutrition section right here on this site. I also provide one-on-one consultations if you need help with transitioning your cat to a healthier diet.
Would you consider cooking for your cat?
Coming next Monday:
Cooking for Your Cat: Healthy, Simple and Economical
Photo: Bigstockphoto
Related reading:
Are processed foods at the root of all feline illness?
The best food for your cat: my recommendations
