We often get asked what the difference is between kibble and raw feeding!
Key Differences
Raw pet food can be purchased as a complete diet. However, many owners choose to feed homemade raw as they believe it is better for their pets. Studies show that 95% of homemade diets are deficient in at least one essential nutrient. And 84% of them are lacking in multiple nutrients (PFMA, 2020). Dodd et al. (2019) carried out a nutrient analysis of a homemade diet and the impact this diet had when fed to a puppy. The results of the study showed that the diet was deficient in many nutrients. It also had an incorrect balance of calcium and phosphorus which resulted in poor skeletal development. Our puppy recipes have been specifically formulated with the appropriate levels of protein, calcium and phosphorus to ensure healthy growth and development.
It has been identified that there is a risk to pet health from feeding homemade raw diets if they are not nutritionally balanced for the specific species and life stage. Additionally, it has been identified that there is a risk to human health. When feeding a raw diet, the risk of infection from bacteria is increased, as both the pet and their owner can be directly exposed to food-borne pathogens. A study looked at 35 commercial raw pet foods, examining the products for contaminants such as salmonella, listeria and E.coli. Over half of the raw food that was tested was positive for at least one contaminant (Bree et al., 2018). The study concluded by stating that dry pet food is a safer option for pets and owners alike.
Comparing Kibble and Raw
It’s not easy to make a direct comparison between raw and kibble because of the difference in the physical state. Therefore it is important to calculate any values on the same dry matter basis. Dry matter refers to the material that remains after the removal of water. The tables below compare the nutritional content of various raw diets to Hudson’s K9 Fine Dining Duck Recipe on an as fed basis as well as on a 100% dry matter basis. By converting both products to the same dry matter, the analytical constituents can be compared equally.
Analytical Constituents on an As Fed Basis
Analytical Constituents on 100% Dry Matter Basis
There are many different formats of pet food on the market. This can sometimes make it hard to decide what is best to feed to pets. The most important message is that the quality of pet food should be measured on the contents of the food rather than the format it is fed in. Here at Hudson’s Pet Care, all our complete pet foods are formulated to meet the pet’s nutritional requirements in line with the FEDIAF nutritional guidelines. Our Freshtrusion™ technology is raw meat that is gently cooked to protect proteins which provide higher nutrient bioavailability and digestibility.
WORDS Lizzie – Hudson’s Pet Care and Food Service
