Transitioning Pets to a Raw Diet: A Comprehensive Guide by Rawvolution
Transitioning pets from a kibble diet to a raw diet, such as Rawvolution, can be a rewarding process that enhances their overall health and well-being. Below is a structured approach to guide customers through this transition effectively.
1. Prepare for the Switch
Education
- Benefits of Raw Feeding: Raw diets can improve coat condition, energy levels, and digestive health. Many pet owners report healthier body conditions and cleaner teeth after switching to raw food (2).
- Nutritional Needs: Understand the specific dietary requirements of your pet based on their age, size, and activity level.
Storage
- Ensure your freezer can accommodate raw food products. Rawvolution offers a variety of options tailored to different needs.
Choosing the Right Meal
- Select meals based on your pet’s specific requirements:
- Game Strong: Ideal for pets with allergies.
- Lambo: Suitable for pregnant dogs.
- Tripe X Patties: Beneficial for digestion.
2. Gradual Introduction
A gradual transition helps prevent digestive upset:
Week 1:
- Replace 25% of kibble with raw food.
- Feed kibble and raw at separate meals (kibble in the morning, raw in the evening).
Week 2:
- Increase raw food to 50%.
Week 3:
- Increase raw food to 75%.
Week 4:
- Fully transition to raw meals.
3. Introduce Digestive Aids
Support gut health during the transition with:
- Fermented Vegetables: Provide probiotics to aid digestion.
- Bone Broth: Helps boost gut lining and ease digestion.
- Goat’s Milk Kefir or Raw Goat’s Milk: Promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
4. Monitor Your Pet’s Health
Stool Observation
- Expect loose stools initially as the gut adjusts. This is normal.
- Stools should firm up after transitioning.
Overall Well-Being
- Monitor energy levels, coat condition, and general health.
- Consult a veterinarian for any significant changes.
5. Adjust Meal Portions
Feed 2-3% of your pet's ideal body weight daily, adjusting based on their activity level and age:
- Puppies and Active Dogs: May require more.
- Seniors: Typically need less.
6. Stay Consistent
Once fully transitioned, avoid mixing kibble and raw in the same meal to prevent stomach upset, as kibble digests slower.
Rawvolution Product Recommendations by Stage
Starter Meals:
- Birdy (light chicken) or Tripe X Patties: Gentle transition aids with added probiotics.
Main Diet:
- Transition to high-protein meals like Beef Supreme or Lambo based on specific needs.
Sensitive Pets:
- Offer Game Strong for pets with chicken or beef allergies.
Additional Benefits of Raw Feeding
According to various sources, raw diets can lead to numerous health benefits:
- Improved Digestion: Raw diets are easier for pets to digest and can lead to better nutrient absorption (3).
- Enhanced Coat Health: Many owners report shinier coats and healthier skin after switching to raw (4).
- Better Dental Health: Raw feeding can contribute to cleaner teeth and fresher breath (5).
By following this structured approach, pet owners can ensure a smooth transition to a raw diet, ultimately enhancing their pets' health and quality of life. For more information on the benefits of raw feeding, please contact us and we will help you through it all.