Raw feeding sparks strong opinions among cat parents. Some people see it as the most natural, species-appropriate way to feed cats. Others fear it’s dangerous, or unnecessary. These opposing views often leave cat parents feeling confused or overwhelmed.
If you’re curious about raw diets but aren’t sure what’s real and what’s hype, this article draws on over a decade of my own raw feeding experience and the many questions I’ve answered from cat parents. I’ll help you separate the raw feeding myths, and facts.
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Defining raw feeding myths and facts
Raw feeding myths usually come from fear, outdated information, or incomplete knowledge, while the facts are grounded in feline biology, food safety practices, and balanced nutrition. By learning the truth behind raw feeding myths, you can make informed decisions that support your cat’s health – whether you choose to fully switch to raw, mix it with other diets, or simply want to know the facts before deciding.
A clear understanding of the common raw feeding myths, and facts actually behind them, can help give you the confidence and control over how you feed your cat.
Myth 1: Raw food is dangerous for cats
Fact: Raw feeding can be risky if it’s not done correctly – but with good food hygiene and knowledge, it can be safe.
The main concerns are bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. Cats, being obligate carnivores with short, acidic digestive tracts, are built to handle raw meat much better than humans.
Safe raw food practices include freezing meat properly, handling it with clean utensils, and using separate prep areas can reduce risks dramatically. Commercial raw diets produced under safety standards are another option for peace of mind.
Myth 2: Raw diets automatically make cats healthier
Fact: Raw food isn’t a magic fix-all.
Many cats thrive on properly balanced raw diets. Benefits of feeding raw often include shinier coats, better muscle tone, improved energy, and fewer digestive issues. But simply feeding raw meat without organs, bones, or supplements can cause serious nutrient deficiencies over time.
Raw feeding isn’t just tossing chicken breast in a bowl. A healthy raw diet for cats is complete and balanced – whether homemade with a trusted raw recipe or store-bought from a reputable brand.
Myth 3: Raw food causes worms and parasites
Fact: Responsible raw feeding doesn’t increase parasite risk when done properly.
High-quality raw meat, especially human-grade or commercial raw, goes through strict processing. Freezing meat for the right amount of time kills most parasites. In reality, cats are more likely to pick up worms from hunting or fleas than from safely sourced raw food.
Myth 4: Raw feeding is just a fad
Fact: Cats have eaten raw prey for thousands of years.
While the modern “raw diet movement” feels new, the idea itself isn’t. Cats are obligate carnivores – meaning they must eat meat to survive. Commercial kibble and canned food are relatively recent inventions. Many raw feeders see it as a return to what cats’ bodies are naturally built for, though this doesn’t make it the only correct diet.
Myth 5: Kibble cleans cats’ teeth better than raw
Fact: Despite the common belief, kibble doesn’t actually act like a toothbrush.
Kibble doesn’t actually “brush” teeth – most cats chew just enough to break it down and swallow it, and plaque can still build up. On the other hand, chewing raw meaty bones (like chicken wings or necks) can help scrape teeth naturally, if offered safely and in appropriate sizes. Regular dental care – whether your cat eats kibble, raw, or canned – is still essential.
Myth 6: It’s too complicated to feed raw
Fact: It can be as simple or as involved as you want it to be.
Yes, homemade raw diets require learning and planning. But many cat owners find their rhythm quickly, especially if they follow a trusted homemade raw recipe or buy pre-made balanced raw meals. You don’t have to become a feline nutritionist overnight. Starting slowly and asking for guidance from experienced feeders or a knowledgeable vet can make the process easier.
Myth 7: Vets are against raw feeding
Fact: Not all vets are anti-raw – but many are cautious for good reason.
Vets see the consequences when owners feed unbalanced or contaminated diets. Their concerns are often about safety, not the concept of raw itself. A growing number of vets support or even recommend raw diets when they’re done correctly and meet nutritional standards.
If you decide to go raw, having a supportive vet who understands feline nutrition can be a huge help and ensure your cat’s diet meet their needs.
Myth 8: Raw food doesn’t provide complete nutrition
Fact: A poorly planned raw diet isn’t complete – but a balanced one can be.
A proper raw diet contains muscle meat, organs (especially liver), bone (or a safe calcium source), and the right supplements. Taurine, for example, is crucial for heart and eye health. If these elements are missing, the diet isn’t complete – but done properly, raw can meet or exceed nutritional standards.
Myth 9: You can feed your cat the same thing every day
Fact: Variety is important in raw diets.
Rotating proteins such as chicken, beef, rabbit, turkey, or other meats gives your cat a wider variety of nutrients and helps lower the risk of developing deficiencies or food sensitivities. Each protein source has its own unique nutrient profile and texture, offering different vitamins, minerals, and amino acid balances. Over time, this variety supports a more complete diet, keeps mealtimes interesting, and can even make your cat less likely to become fussy about food.
Myth 10: My cat won’t eat raw food
Fact: Some cats are picky at first, but most can transition gradually.
Cats imprint on food textures and smells early in life. Switching from dry kibble to raw might take patience – starting with tiny tastes, warming the food slightly, or mixing it with their usual diet. Slow, gentle transitions to a raw diet work best for most cats.
Myth 11: Feeding bones is dangerous
Fact: Cooked bones can be dangerous – raw bones, offered properly, can be safe.
Cooked bones can splinter and cause injury. Raw bones, however, are softer and more flexible. Offering the right size (not too small or brittle), always supervised, can support dental health and jaw strength. Some people use ground bone or calcium powder if their cat doesn’t chew bones.
Myth 12: Raw diets make cats aggressive
Fact: Raw meat doesn’t make cats ‘wild’.
This myth comes from misunderstanding instinct versus behaviour. Eating raw doesn’t change a cat’s temperament or personality. Cats may get excited at mealtime because the food smells strong and natural, but they don’t become more aggressive overall. A well-fed cat is usually calmer, not more aggressive.
Myth 13: Only certain breeds can eat raw
Fact: All cats are obligate carnivores.
Whether you have a larger breed like a Maine Coon, a smaller Devon Rex, or a mixed-breed rescue cat, their dietary needs are the same at the core: meat-based, high-protein nutrition. Raw feeding isn’t a luxury for “special” cats – it can suit any healthy adult cat with proper planning.
Myth 14: Once you switch to raw, you can never feed anything else
Fact: Many cats successfully eat a mixed diet.
Some cat parents feed raw in the morning and wet food at night, or use kibble as an occasional backup. A strict “all or nothing” mindset isn’t necessary unless your cat has specific health needs. The key is consistency and balance over time.
Myth 15: Raw feeding is too expensive
Fact: It can be affordable with planning.
Commercial pre-made raw diets can be pricey, but making your own raw food can be surprisingly economical. Buying in bulk, freezing portions, and choosing seasonal or local meats keeps costs manageable. Some owners find it costs less to feed raw than premium kibble or wet food over time.
Final thoughts
Understanding the raw feeding myths and facts helps cut through all the noise and confusion. Raw feeding isn’t the right choice for every cat or every household – and that’s okay. But with the right knowledge, careful preparation, and a balanced approach, it can be a wholesome and natural way to feed your cat.
If you’re considering raw:
- Learn the basics of feline nutrition: A balanced raw diet needs the right mix of meat, organs, bone or calcium, and essential nutrients like taurine.
- Start slowly and be patient: Gradual transitions help even picky cats adjust to new textures and flavours without stress.
- Keep food handling hygience practices: Thaw raw meat in the fridge, use clean utensils, and wash bowls after every meal.
- Work with a supportive vet or feline nutrition expert: Regular checkups make sure your cat’s diet supports their long-term health.
- Keep it simple to start with: Choose a feeding style that fits your lifestyle, whether that’s a homemade raw recipe, commercial raw, or a premix supplement.
🐾 Are you curious to learn more about raw diets for cats, check out our Complete Guide to Raw Feeding Cats.
