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Quick answer: the BARF diet (raw meat, offal and bones) has its fans, but also risks: bacteria such as Salmonella or Listeria that can affect both pets and people, nutritional imbalances and injuries from bones. If you choose it, follow a plan from a veterinary nutritionist and be extra strict about kitchen hygiene.
Main risks
- Microbiological: raw meat can contain bacteria and parasites. Pets can shed them in their faeces even when they seem healthy.
- Nutritional: without a formulated recipe, there is often too little or too much calcium, phosphorus or vitamins.
- Mechanical: bones can break teeth or block the digestive tract.
- Vulnerable people: the risk is higher in homes with babies, older people, pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems.
Precautions if you decide to feed raw
- A plan formulated by a vet who specialises in nutrition.
- Meat from a controlled source, frozen and thawed in the fridge.
- Dedicated surfaces, utensils and bowls, washed after every use.
- Wash your hands after handling the food and after picking up faeces.
- Do not leave leftovers in the bowl.
- Regular vet check-ups.
Alternatives
If what you want is a very tasty diet with recognisable ingredients, there are complete dry and wet foods with single-protein, grain-free or high-meat recipes.
Natural Impulse horseView product
Natural Impulse duckView product
Impulse grain-free turkeyView product
For information only. Consult your vet before changing your pet's diet.