Shopping Cart ( )
Your cart is currently empty.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cats get the majority of their needed protein from meat, fish, and other animal products because they are carnivores. So, an animal-based protein diet, like BARF, is easier to digest as it’s better suited to the feline digestive tract than plant-based protein.
Therefore, it makes sense as to why pet parents would want to feed their cat a BARF diet. We discuss the about BARF food for cats in this article.
What is a BARF diet?
The BARF model diet for cats is the most prevalent raw diet. It consists of raw meat, bones and organs. The main difference with this diet is that it incorporates vegetables, seeds, and fruits in the meal. Adding these ingredients into your meals is especially beneficial when creating a comprehensive and balanced raw diet.
Is BARF good for cats?
Yes, it is. According to Dr Ian Billinghurst, the founder of the BARF (Biologically appropriate Raw Food) Diet, cats that eat raw diets are noticeably healthier than those who eat a carbohydrate-based, inflammatory, and dehydrated industrial diet.
Besides that, Dr Ian has also expressed that BARF-fed animals have a significantly reduced risk of contracting infectious and degenerative illnesses. For example, they are less likely to get cancer as compared to other animals. This condition of health lasts well into old age.
What is the healthiest natural food for cats?
We have created a list of foods that are the healthiest natural food for your pet:
Fish
Fish are the best raw cat food as it has numerous health benefits. For example, salmon's omega-3 fatty acids boost the immune system and improve mental function in felines. They also aid in managing arthritis pain and the reduction of excessive cholesterol.
Lamb
Heme iron, or iron contained in meat, is abundant in lamb. Iron is necessary for transporting oxygen to all bodily components to produce energy.
A lack of this mineral might cause fatigue and make your cat more susceptible to sickness.
Besides that, every cat parent takes pleasure in their cat's skin and coat health, which is why meals with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) Omega-3 are essential. Lamb, like salmon, has EPA Omega-3, which helps relieve itching and skin allergies.
Broccoli
Did you know that broccoli is abundant in antioxidants? This makes it one of the healthiest vegetables available, capable of preventing cancer cells from forming in your cat’s body. Furthermore, antioxidants will strengthen your pet's immune system and extend its longevity.
Watermelon
Watermelon is not only edible for cats, but it is also popular among them. The high moisture content keeps cats hydrated.
However, consuming too much sugar might lead to digestive and possibly diabetic problems in the long run. So, watermelon should not be fed excessively to cats, especially as a meal replacement.
Bananas
While cats can eat fruits, you must be selective about the fruits you give them. Some fruits have elements that are poisonous to cats, and you don't want to make the mistake of feeding them to your pet.
But, bananas are a good choice because they are high in potassium and contain much soluble fibre. Just make sure your kitties aren't getting more food than they need.
Melons
Melons are one of the most nutritious fruits available. Regardless of variety, they are high in Vitamins A and C, which may help boost their immune system. Frozen melon slices could also be a tasty treat for your felines.
How much BARF should I feed my cat?
When you are starting to feed a healthy adult cat raw food, the typical guideline is to provide a daily amount of meat that is equal to 2% to 5% of its body weight.
Weigh your cat regularly to see if this amount is sufficient for it. For example, if your cat becomes overweight, consider reducing the daily ratio by 10%. On the other hand, you should raise the daily ratio by 10% if your cat loses weight.
Final thoughts
As explained above, BARF food is one of the best diets you can provide your cat. So, give PetCubes's Raw Cat Food a try. Our meals are made with fresh human-grade ingredients that are guaranteed to boost your feline's health and wellbeing.
Reviewed by:
Dr Francis is one of the top wildlife nutritionists in Asia. Originating from Montreal, Canada, he left at 21 to pursue his Masters and subsequently a PhD in wildlife nutrition at Oxford Brookes University. Instead of taking the path of common animal science to learn about farm animals, or through the veterinarian space and taking a certificate in nutrition, he took the road less travelled to dive deep into the world of animal ecology, metabolism and nutrition.
