Over the years, there has been a growing trend towards providing our feline friends with a diet that mirrors their wild ancestors. Raw feeding, a practice that involves serving cats a diet of uncooked meats, bones, and organs, has gained popularity among pet owners.
Beyond its potential health benefits, raw feeding is also known to impact cat behavior and energy levels profoundly. According to a report, owners feeding raw meat to their pets found that “their pet has a healthier body condition, higher energy level, shinier coat, cleaner teeth, and normal bowel movements.”
The impact of raw food on a cat’s coat and teeth is more prevalent and widely recognized, but it’s important for cat owners to better understand the influence of raw feeding on cat behavior and energy levels.
Instinctual Satisfaction
Cats are natural hunters whose instinctual behaviors are deeply rooted in the wild. Raw feeding taps into these primal instincts by offering a diet that closely mimics the prey they would catch in their natural habitat. This satisfies their hunting instincts and provides a sense of accomplishment, promoting overall contentment and reducing stress levels.
Enhanced Energy Levels
One of the most noticeable effects of raw feeding is the boost in energy levels observed in cats. The nutrient-dense nature of raw meat and organs provides a readily available energy source, helping cats maintain their agility and playfulness. Cat owners will likely see increased activity, extended play sessions, and a more vibrant demeanor in their raw-fed feline companions.
This could be because of the lack of carbohydrates in raw food that are otherwise present in processed dry foods, such as kibble. According to a Companion Animal research article about raw feeding in dogs and cats, “the high level of carbohydrates in processed commercial foods may be partially responsible for increased rates of diabetes and obesity in dogs and cats.”
The report also mentions that a low- or carbohydrate-free diet may increase stamina and maximize energy production, potentially increasing cat activity.
Improved Digestive Health
Processed cat foods can sometimes lead to digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea. Raw feeding, being closer to a cat’s natural diet, promotes optimal digestive health. The presence of raw bones in the diet aids in dental health and helps regulate bowel movements, leading to a happier and more comfortable cat.
When you choose a reputable brand like Bold By Nature raw food, you can provide your feline friend with recipes full of meats made without added processes, unproblematic to their digestive systems. Their recipes are low glycemic as they do not use any fruits in our formulas, making it the ideal choice for cats.
Reduced Aggression and Anxiety
A diet rich in high-quality proteins and essential nutrients can have a calming effect on cats. Raw feeding can be linked to a reduction in aggressive behaviors and anxiety in some felines. For example, dental issues can lead to aggressive behavior as it may be painful to eat food. However, raw food can reduce the risk of dental problems, eventually lowering the risk of aggression.
Additionally, balanced nutrition provided by a raw diet supports the production of neurotransmitters that influence mood and behavior, contributing to a more relaxed and well-adjusted cat.
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Healthy Weight Management
Obesity is common among domestic cats and is often linked to highly processed commercial cat foods. Raw feeding, focusing on natural, unprocessed ingredients, promotes healthy weight management. Cats on a raw diet are less prone to obesity, and maintaining an ideal weight contributes to their overall well-being, positively impacting their behavior and quality of life.
