How Much to Feed?

The quantity of food you feed your pet is just as important for their health and well-being as its quality. Too little can lead to malnutrition, while too much can cause obesity and related health problems. But how do you determine the right portion size for your dog or cat?

General Feeding Guidelines for a Raw Diet

For both dogs and cats, raw food portions are typically measured as a percentage of body weight. The general guidelines are:

Adult dogs: 2-4% of their body weight per day
Puppies: 4-6% of their body weight per day
Adult cats: 2-4% of their body weight per day
Kittens: 4-6% of their body weight per day

These values can vary depending on the pet’s activity level, metabolism, and overall health. Some pets may require more than the recommended portions, while others less.

Factors That Influence Portion Sizes

1. Age and Life Stage

Puppies and kittens require more food relative to their body weight because they are growing rapidly.
Adult dogs and cats need a stable amount of food to maintain a healthy weight.
Senior pets may require less food due to lower activity levels but may need more nutrient-dense meals to support aging bodies.

2. Activity Level

Highly active or working dogs (e.g., herding dogs, hunting dogs) may need 4-6% or more of their body weight in raw food daily.
Indoor cats that are less active require smaller portions compared to outdoor or highly active cats.

3. Weight Management

Underweight pets need an increase in food portions or more calorie-dense raw meals, such as those with higher fat content.
Overweight pets require a reduction in portion size and potentially a leaner protein selection.

4. Health Conditions

Dogs and cats with certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease) may need specific raw meal formulations and adjusted portions (consult a veterinarian).
Pregnant or lactating females require significantly more food to support their energy needs.

How to tell if your pet is underweight?

Ribs, spine, and hip bones are easily visible or palpable with little to no fat covering.
A narrow waistline with an extreme tuck.

If your pet is underweight, consider increasing portion sizes, choosing higher-fat raw meals, or consulting a veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.

How to tell if your pet is overweight?

Difficulty feeling the ribs due to a thick layer of fat.
A rounded or sagging belly with little or no waist definition.

If your pet is overweight, consider adjusting portion sizes, opting for leaner protein sources, and increasing physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.

Remember that feeding raw requires a balanced mix of muscle meat, organ meat, and raw bones to ensure optimal nutrition. Our store offers pre-prepared, balanced raw food for dogs and cats to make feeding easier and stress-free. We also offer individual ingredients to allow you to create your own BARF meals. For a guide on how to create balanced raw meals on your own, see here.