pets
Clawmate
Get Started
Diet Type

Raw Diet for Cats

Raw feeding for cats is perhaps the most "biologically appropriate" diet — after all, cats in the wild eat raw prey exclusively. A raw diet can replicate this with raw meat, bones, and organs. When done properly, many cats thrive. When done incorrectly, it can cause serious nutritional deficiencies or illness.

👥
~5%
Of cat owners feed raw
💵
$100-200
Monthly cost
📊
85/10/5
Meat/bone/organ ratio (typical)
💊
0.4%
Taurine (minimum for cats)

✓ Advantages

  • •Mimics natural prey diet closely
  • •High protein, low carbohydrate
  • •Many cats show improved coat and energy
  • •Smaller, less smelly stools

✗ Considerations

  • •Bacterial contamination risk
  • •Must be properly balanced (especially taurine)
  • •More expensive and time-consuming
  • •Not recommended for immunocompromised pets or humans

🔍 What to Look For

TAURINE

Cats CANNOT synthesize taurine — they must eat it. Deficiency causes blindness and heart failure. Ensure adequate taurine in any raw diet.

Variety of Proteins

Rotate between chicken, turkey, rabbit, and other proteins for nutritional variety. Never fish only (thiaminase issues).

Commercial Raw Options

Brands like Rad Cat, Primal, and Stella & Chewy's offer balanced commercial raw — much safer for non-experts.

Proper Food Safety

Raw meat carries bacterial risks. Handle carefully, sanitize surfaces, and freeze meat before feeding.

💡 Expert Tips

1

Never feed raw fish (thiaminase destroys vitamin B1)

2

Cats REQUIRE taurine - ensure it's in the diet

3

Consider commercial raw for proper balance

4

Freeze meat for 2+ weeks before feeding

Frequently Asked Questions

Is raw feeding safe for cats?▼
Cats handle raw meat bacteria better than humans, but risks exist — especially for immunocompromised cats or households. Proper handling, freezing before use, and choosing commercial raw (which undergoes safety testing) reduces risk.
What about taurine?▼
This is critical! Cats must get taurine from food — they can't make it themselves. Heart meat is high in taurine, but supplementation is often necessary. Commercial raw is pre-balanced for taurine. DIY raw absolutely requires taurine supplementation.
Can cats eat raw fish?▼
Raw fish contains thiaminase, which destroys vitamin B1 and can cause deficiency. Occasional small amounts are fine, but never as a diet staple and never as the sole protein source. Cooked fish is safer.
How do I transition my cat to raw?▼
Cats resist dietary changes more than dogs. Start by mixing tiny amounts of raw into current food. Gradually increase over weeks — not days. Some cats take months to fully convert. Others never will. Patience is essential.

Need Personalized Nutrition Advice?

Our AI can help you choose the best food for your cat's specific breed, age, and health needs.

Get AI Nutrition Advice →← All Cat Nutrition Guides