Is Raw Food Safe? What Pet Parents Should Know

• Posted on 21 February 2025
• By Dr. Jill Tack, Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor
• Posted in Holistic Pet Nutrition, Madison Heights Pet Store, Pet Nutrition Michigan, Raw Feeding Guidelines, Raw Food Safety, raw pet food, Warren Pet Store
• 0

Raw food is safe for dogs and cats when balanced and handled properly. Learn what makes raw feeding safe and how to transition confidently with support from The Pet Beastro.

Is Raw Food Safe for Dogs and Cats? Short answer: Yes, raw food is safe when it’s balanced and handled properly.

As more pet parents look for better ways to support digestion, skin health, allergies, and overall wellness, raw feeding often comes up. Along with that curiosity usually comes one big question: Is raw food actually safe for dogs and cats?

At The Pet Beastro, this is one of the most common questions we hear. The good news is that when raw food is sourced responsibly, properly formulated, and handled with basic care, it can be a safe and nourishing option for many pets.

What does “raw feeding” really mean?

Raw feeding means feeding dogs and cats food that closely matches what their bodies are designed to eat. This includes real animal protein, natural fats, organs, bones, and moisture-rich ingredients, rather than heavily processed kibble.

It’s important to understand that commercial raw diets are not the same as tossing raw meat into a bowl. The raw foods we carry and recommend at The Pet Beastro in Madison Heights and Warren, Michigan, are complete and balanced formulas made by independent, family-owned companies that adhere to strict sourcing, testing, and safety standards.

Raw feeding is about nutrition and balance, not guesswork.

Why do some pet parents worry about raw food safety?

Most concerns around raw feeding come from a few common places:

• Fear of bacteria
• Confusion between homemade and commercial raw diets
• Comparing pet digestion to human digestion
• Misinformation about how pets process food

Dogs and cats are biologically different from humans. Their digestive tracts are shorter and more acidic, which helps them process raw food differently and more efficiently.

It’s also worth noting that processed dry pet food is not risk-free. Kibble recalls due to contamination happen regularly, even though kibble is cooked and shelf-stable.

What actually makes raw food safe for pets?

When raw feeding is done correctly, it can be both safe and beneficial. The most important safety factors include:

• Choosing reputable raw food brands that have been thoroughly vetted
• Feeding properly balanced formulas with vitamins and minerals
• Storing food frozen or refrigerated as directed
• Using clean bowls and feeding area
• Washing hands after handling food
• Transitioning slowly to support digestion

At The Pet Beastro, we walk pet parents through each of these steps so raw feeding feels approachable, not overwhelming.

Is raw food safe for puppies and kittens?

Yes, often very safe with guidance. Puppies and kittens grow rapidly and need nutrient-dense, highly digestible food. Many young pets do extremely well on raw or fresh diets because the ingredients are simple and bioavailable. Fresh food can support their nutrition far better than processed foods. That said, growing pets have specific nutritional needs. This is why we always recommend properly formulated diets and guidance when starting raw feeding with puppies or kittens.

Is raw food safe for senior pets or pets with health concerns?

In many cases, yes.

Senior pets and pets dealing with digestive issues, allergies, inflammation, or chronic conditions often benefit from moisture-rich, minimally processed diets. Raw food can be easier to digest and less inflammatory than highly processed options.

However, not every pet is the same. Some do best with raw food, while others do best with gently cooked or freeze-dried diets. Our approach is always individualized, based on the pet in front of us.

How does raw feeding support digestion and allergies?

Many pet parents notice improvements because raw food:

• Removes common fillers like corn, wheat, and soy
• Reduces inflammatory ingredients
• Supports healthy gut bacteria
• Provides natural moisture for digestion

While raw feeding isn’t a cure-all, it often helps calm the underlying inflammation that contributes to itchy skin, loose stools, ear issues, and chronic digestive upset.

What pet parents ask us most

“Is raw food riskier than kibble?”
Not necessarily. Both require proper handling, and kibble recalls show that processing does not eliminate risk.

“Do I need to feed raw 100% of the time?”
No. Even adding raw food a few times a week or as a topper can make a difference.

“What if I’m nervous to start?”
That’s completely normal. We start slow and guide you step by step.

“Is freeze-dried raw safer?”
Both frozen and freeze-dried raw can be safe when sourced responsibly.

Raw food is safe for dogs and cats when it’s balanced, high-quality, and handled properly. With the right guidance, raw feeding can support digestion, skin health, energy, and overall wellness.

How The Pet Beastro Helps You Feed with Confidence

Raw feeding doesn’t have to feel intimidating. At The Pet Beastro, our nutrition team takes the time to listen, educate, and help you choose options that fit your pet and your lifestyle.

If you’re local to Madison Heights or Warren, Michigan, visit us in-store, call, or join our text list and let us help you feel confident every step of the way.