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Transitioning Your Pet from Kibble and Canned Food to a Raw Diet

Embrace the Natural Way: A Step-by-Step Guide to Switching Your Pet to a Raw Food Diet

Every pet owner dreams of seeing their beloved cat or dog thrive, embodying health and happiness in its most vibrant form. At Nurturing by Nature, we understand this desire intimately. Our journey began with a conviction that heavily processed kibble and canned food couldn’t possibly be the best option for our pets. This belief led to a transformative journey into raw feeding, inspired by our founder Nettie and her boxer dog, Fred. In this blog, we will guide you through the process of transitioning your pet from dry or processed food to a raw diet, using the high-quality products available at Nurturing by Nature.

Understanding the Difference

Kibble and Processed Food Kibble and canned food are the most common types of commercial pet food. These products often contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and low-quality protein sources. While convenient, they can lead to various health issues such as obesity, dental problems, and digestive disorders.

Raw Food Diet A raw food diet consists of raw meat, bones, organs, and sometimes fruits and vegetables. This type of diet closely mirrors what pets would eat in the wild, offering numerous health benefits such as improved digestion, shinier coats, and increased energy levels. Nurturing by Nature provides a range of high-quality raw food products to support your pet’s health naturally.

The Story of Fred and Nettie

Our journey began in the late 90s when Nettie, our founder, grew concerned about the quality of commercial pet food. She believed there had to be a more natural, nutritious option for her pets. Inspired by research and the natural behaviours of pets, she decided to switch her own pets to a raw diet. This decision was solidified when Fred, the family’s boxer dog, was diagnosed with cancer. Despite her initial worries about the change, Nettie saw remarkable improvements in Fred’s health within days. His energy returned, his digestive issues improved, and his overall vitality was restored. This experience with Fred was the foundation of Nurturing by Nature, driving our commitment to raw feeding ever since.

Benefits of Raw Feeding

Health Improvements


  • Improved Digestion: Raw food is easier for pets to digest, resulting in smaller, firmer stools.

  • Healthier Skin and Coat: The natural oils and fats in raw food contribute to a shinier, healthier coat.

  • Enhanced Immune System: A diet rich in natural nutrients boosts overall immune function.

Behavioural Benefits


  • Increased Energy: Pets on a raw diet often show more vitality and enthusiasm.

  • Reduced Allergies: Many pets experience a reduction in food-related allergies and sensitivities.

  • Dental Health: Chewing raw bones helps clean teeth and strengthen gums.

Preparing for the Transition

Consulting with a Vet Before making any dietary changes, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance based on your pet’s specific health needs and conditions.

Research and Planning Educate yourself on raw feeding principles, portion sizes, and nutritional balance. Nurturing by Nature offers a wealth of resources and support to help you make informed decisions.

Step-by-Step Transition Guide

Flexibility in Transitioning Transitioning your pet from kibble or canned food to a raw diet can be done in a time frame that suits both you and your pet. While some pets may need 3 to 4 days, others may transition within a week or take a longer period, depending on their individual needs and the owner's lifestyle.

Day 1-2: Gradual Introduction


  • Smaller Meals: Start by feeding smaller meals of raw food to help your pet’s digestive system adjust. Mix a small amount of raw food with your pet’s existing kibble or canned food.

  • Observation: Monitor your pet for any signs of digestive upset, such as loose stools or vomiting. These can be normal during the initial phase of transition. Ensure fresh water is always available.

Day 3-4: Increasing Raw Food Proportion


  • Adjusting Ratios: Gradually increase the amount of raw food to 50%, reducing the kibble or canned food proportion to 50%. Continue to observe your pet’s reaction and adjust the pace if necessary.

  • Introduce Variety: Begin introducing different protein sources available from Nurturing by Nature, such as chicken, beef, or lamb, to provide a balanced diet.

Beyond Day 4: Full Transition


  • Complete Switch: Move to 100% raw food diet if your pet is handling the change well. By this stage, your pet should be fully adjusted to their new diet. Ensure you are providing a balanced variety of proteins and nutrients.

  • Consistency and Routine: Establish a regular feeding routine that suits both you and your pet. Consistency is key to maintaining their health and happiness.

Alternative Approaches


  • Half-and-Half Diet: Some pets may prefer or benefit from a diet that includes both raw food and kibble or canned food. This can be a permanent solution for those who find it suits their pet’s lifestyle and health needs.

  • Immediate Switch: In some cases, pets can transition directly to a raw diet without any mixed feeding period. This approach involves feeding smaller meals initially and monitoring closely for any signs of digestive upset.

Monitoring and Adjusting


  • Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular vet visits to monitor your pet’s health and make any necessary adjustments to their diet.

  • Behavioural Monitoring: Continue to observe your pet’s behaviour, digestion, and overall health. Adjust portion sizes and protein sources as needed.

Common Challenges and Solutions


  • Initial Resistance: Some pets may be hesitant at first. Mix raw food with more appealing ingredients like a small amount of plain yoghurt or a splash of low-sodium chicken broth to entice them.

  • Digestive Issues: Minor digestive upsets are common during the transition. Ensure you are feeding a balanced variety and consult your vet if issues persist.

"Every pet owner dreams of seeing their beloved cat or dog thrive, embodying health and happiness in its most vibrant form. At Nurturing by Nature, we understand this desire intimately."

Nurturing by Nature's Raw Food Options

Product Range Nurturing by Nature offers a variety of raw food products, including different protein sources such as chicken, beef, lamb, fish, and game. Our products are designed to meet the nutritional needs of your pet naturally.

Customer Experiences Many pet owners have successfully transitioned to a raw diet using our products. Their testimonials highlight improved health, vitality, and overall well-being.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet

Variety and Nutritional Balance Ensure your pet’s diet includes a variety of proteins, meal types, and nutrient-rich ingredients. This diversity supports a balanced diet and promotes overall health.

Long-term Health Monitoring Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor your pet’s health and make any necessary dietary adjustments.

Conclusion

Switching to a raw food diet can significantly improve your pet’s health and quality of life. At Nurturing by Nature, we are dedicated to supporting you through this transition with high-quality products and exceptional customer service. Visit our online store or one of our physical locations to learn more and start your pet’s journey towards better health today.

Additional Resources


Join us on this journey to transform lives, one meal at a time. For more information and to explore our products, visit Nurturing by Nature at www.nurturingbynature.co.uk.

Store Locations: Nurturing by Nature 01202 625718


  • Westmoors

  • Christchurch

  • Wimborne (Pamphill)

  • Poole (Upton)

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