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What is the BARF Diet?

The BARF Diet, short for ‘Biologically Appropriate Raw Food’ or ‘Bones and Raw Food,’ is based on the idea that domestic cats have evolved from wildcats (African & European) and retain a digestive system best suited for a raw diet. Unlike their external appearance and hunting abilities, their digestive system remains unchanged from their ancestors.

 

Why Are Cats Obligate Carnivores?

Cats belong to a family of obligate carnivores, meaning they rely exclusively on meat for essential nutrients that aren’t found in plant-based foods. While dogs can consume a mix of meats and plants, cats have specific biological requirements that make a raw, high-protein diet ideal.

Biological Features of Obligate Carnivores:

• Short Digestive Tract: Cats have a short gastrointestinal system, allowing them to digest protein and fat quickly.
• Sharp Teeth and Strong Jaws: Cats have canines designed to grip and tear meat from bones.
• Superior Hunting Abilities: Their forward-facing ears and sharp vision, optimized for low-light hunting, make them effective predators.

 

Metabolic Adaptations to a Meat-Based Diet

Cats lack the ability to synthesize certain vitamins and amino acids, making it crucial to obtain these from their diet. Key nutrients include:

• Taurine (essential for vision, heart function, and immune response)
• Niacin (supports metabolism)
• Vitamin A (essential for growth and immune health)
• Arginine (vital for processing waste in the body)

 

Why Choose the BARF Diet for Your Cat?

Commercial cat food is often processed using intense heat, which can reduce essential nutrients. Many dry and wet foods contain grains, fillers, artificial colors, additives, and preservatives that may contribute to allergies, intolerances, and health problems.

Health Benefits of a BARF Diet:

• Better digestion
• Less stool odor and volume
• Healthier coats (less shedding and fewer hairballs)
• Increased energy
• Improved urinary health
• Better weight control
• Enhanced dental health
• Relief from itchy skin conditions

Additionally, raw food contains a higher moisture content, which is crucial for feline hydration. Unlike dogs, cats have a low thirst drive and naturally obtain moisture from their prey. A raw diet can support kidney and urinary health, reducing the risk of common feline diseases.

 

Is a BARF Diet Safe?

A raw diet is safe when properly prepared. However, there are two main concerns:

1. Nutritional Imbalances – Ensure the diet is complete and balanced, incorporating muscle meat, organs, bones, and essential vitamins.
2. Bacterial Contamination – Practice proper food handling and hygiene to prevent illness.

When feeding pre-packaged raw food, always check if it is labeled as a complete pet food rather than a complimentarymeal. Homemade raw food should mimic a wild feline diet, incorporating appropriate proportions of meat, organs, bones, and supplements to avoid deficiencies.

 

The Importance of Taurine in a Raw Diet

Unlike dogs, cats cannot synthesize taurine and must obtain it from their diet. Taurine is essential for heart function, vision, fetal development, immune response, and many other physiological processes. High-taurine foods include:

• Heart meat (highest taurine content)
• Dark muscle meats (chicken thighs, duck, turkey)
• Fish, birds, and rodents

 

Pro Tip: Save the “blood” (myoglobin) from thawing meat as it contains vital nutrients, including taurine.

 

Transitioning to a Raw Diet

Some cats adapt quickly, while others need a gradual switch. Transitioning over 7–10 days helps their digestive system adjust:

1. Start with a single protein source (e.g., chicken, turkey, or tripe).
2. Gradually increase raw food while decreasing commercial food.
3. Introduce meaty bones and organ meats after a few weeks.

Some cats may vomit small amounts of white foam or yellow bile during the transition, which is usually temporary as their digestive system adjusts. However, persistent issues may require consulting a veterinarian.

 

How to Feed the BARF Diet

If your cat has previously eaten raw meat or hunted prey, the transition will be easier. For cats accustomed to kibble or wet food, introduce raw food in small amounts. Kibble and raw meat should be fed as separate meals since they digest at different rates.

Feeding Tips:

• Always defrost raw food properly in the fridge or at room temperature.
• Do not refreeze thawed food.
• Store unused portions in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
• Ensure your cat has access to fresh drinking water at all times.

 

Raw Ingredients for a BARF Diet

While Homefeeds does not stock specific raw cat food, raw food brands formulated for dogs are often suitable for cats. Options include Albion Country Bowl, Wilsons Raw, Cotswold Raw, and Taylors Choice Connoisseur Raw.

Key Ingredients:

• Meat (lean, fat, offal): Provides essential amino acids, fatty acids, and proteins.
• Tripe: Contains probiotics and digestive enzymes.
• Chicken: Rich in Omega-3 & 6, plus joint-supporting glucosamine.
• Lamb & Beef: Loaded with immune-boosting vitamins and minerals.
• Fish: Excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Bones (ground or whole): Provide calcium and phosphorus for strong teeth and bones.

 

Feeding Raw Bones Safely

Raw bones support dental health by scraping tartar and plaque from teeth. Always supervise your cat when feeding raw bones and never provide cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause harm.

 

Preparing Raw Meals

To safely prepare raw food:

• Defrost in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Do not use a microwave to defrost as it can degrade nutrients.
• Keep defrosted food refrigerated and use within 24 hours of opening.
• Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat.

 

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Feeding your cat a BARF diet can be incredibly beneficial, supporting their natural instincts and overall health. By ensuring a complete, balanced raw meal plan and practicing proper hygiene, you can give your feline companion a diet that closely mimics their wild ancestors while providing optimal nutrition.

If you’re considering switching your cat to a raw diet, start slowly, do your research, and choose high-quality ingredients. Your cat’s health and vitality will thank you!