Raw Food: The Benefits and Risks for You and Your Pet
Feeding raw food to pets (often called a raw diet or BARF – Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is a growing trend among pet owners who want to provide more “natural” nutrition. While there are potential benefits, raw diets also come with significant risks that need to be carefully considered.
Written by Dr. Mariella Robertson, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC
Published December 2025 | Review date December 2028
This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Reported Benefits of a Raw Food Diet for Your Pet
Improved Coat & Skin Health
Shiny, soft coat and reduced shedding
Fewer skin allergies (in some cases)
Better Digestive Health
Smaller, firmer, less smelly stools
Some pets with food sensitivities may do better on limited-ingredient raw diets
Increased Energy & Lean Muscle Mass
Some pets may seem more energetic or maintain a healthier weight
Dental Health
Raw meaty bones may help reduce tartar and plaque (but carry choking and fracture risks)
Fewer Additives
Avoids artificial colours, preservatives, and fillers found in some commercial kibble
Reported Risks of a Raw Food Diet for Your Pet
Bacterial Contamination
Raw meat may carry Salmonella, E. coli, Listeria, etc., these bacteria can infect your pet or you or your family (especially children, elderly or immunocompromised individuals)
Freezing doesn't always kill harmful pathogens
Raw meet can carry parasite as well like Toxoplasma Gondi and Echinococcus that can infect pets
Nutritional Imbalances
Homemade or unbalanced raw diets can lack calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, taurine (especially for cats)
Leads to bone disease, organ failure, or heart problems
Over-supplementation can also be dangerous
Can Cause Choking and Blockage Hazards
Choking
Tooth fractures
Gastrointestinal blockages or perforations
Not Ideal for Some Pets
Puppies, kittens, senior pets or pets with health conditions may not tolerate raw food well
Pets with weakened immune systems are at higher risk from bacteria
Lack of Scientific Consensus
Studies comparing raw vs. cooked diets are limited and mixed
No strong evidence yet that raw diets extend lifespan or prevent chronic disease
Feeding your pet raw food? Tips to help keep you and your pet safe if you do
Consider the source of the product and its origin.
Use your senses to check the meat is ok before feeding. Does it smell right, is the colour normal, and are there any signs of mould?
Store raw pet food products in a dedicated fridge, well away from any food intended for human consumption – this is key to avoiding many human health risks.
Make sure the products are never placed on kitchen worktops or have contact with any equipment used to prepare food for humans.
If your pet becomes ill, make sure you tell your vet that they are on a raw food diet so they can check for illnesses caused by bacteria.