The Benefits of Raw Pet Food

1. Improved Digestion and Smaller Stools

One of the first things pet owners notice when switching to raw is less frequent, smaller, and less smelly poop. Why? Because raw food is highly digestible and packed with bioavailable nutrients that your pet’s body can actually use. Cats and dogs have short digestive tracts and are biologically designed to digest raw meat and bones—not grains or fillers.

Kibble often contains corn, rice, and soy, which are hard for pets to break down. In fact, dogs and cats lack the enzyme amylase in their saliva, which is necessary for digesting starches. Over time, this can stress the pancreas and lead to the buildup of toxic bacteria in the gut.

2. Healthier Teeth and Gums

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats, with 80% of dogs and 70% of cats showing signs by age two (AVMA). Processed pet foods high in starch and carbohydrates stick to the teeth, creating plaque, tartar, and bad breath.

Raw diets, on the other hand, contain no starchy fillers and help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Chewing on raw meaty bones also acts as natural dental floss, helping to scrape away plaque and strengthen jaw muscles.

3. Stronger Immune System

The gut is the foundation of the immune system. A raw diet supports a healthier gut microbiome through beneficial bacteria and enzymes that promote balance and reduce inflammation. Ingredients like raw meat, bones, and vegetables are full of immune-boosting nutrients, including omega-3s, antioxidants, and natural vitamins.

4. Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin

A healthy coat starts from the inside out. About 40% of your pet’s dietary protein goes into skin and coat health. Raw diets provide the amino acids and essential fatty acids needed to produce a glossy, soft coat and clear skin. Pets on raw often shed less and are less likely to suffer from dandruff, hotspots, or itchy, flaky skin.

5. Lean Muscle and Healthy Weight

Whether your pet is underweight or overweight, raw feeding helps balance body composition naturally. Most calories in a raw diet come from high-quality animal protein, not carbs. This means pets can build lean muscle, support joint health, and maintain a healthy weight. Puppies raised on raw tend to grow at a steady, appropriate rate and have fewer orthopedic issues later in life.

6. Natural Allergy Support

Itchy paws, inflamed ears, constant scratching, or runny eyes? These are common signs of food intolerances or allergies, often caused by grains, preservatives, or synthetic additives found in kibble. Raw feeding eliminates many of these triggers.

Adding raw goat milk can further help by introducing natural probiotics and enzymes that boost immune function and soothe inflammation—great for pets with chronic allergies.

7. Boosted Energy and Cognitive Function

Many raw feeders report their pets experience sustained energy levels, better mood, and improved focus. The healthy fats and nutrient density of raw food—especially omega-3 fatty acids—support brain development and cognitive health. This is especially important for growing puppies and senior pets.

8. Natural Pest Prevention

A lesser-known benefit of raw feeding is that fleas, ticks, and parasites are less drawn to healthy, raw-fed pets. While it’s not a substitute for flea/tick prevention, many pet owners notice that raw-fed pets are less appealing to pests, likely due to better skin health and immune function.

9. Long-Term Health Benefits

Feeding a biologically appropriate raw diet means fewer chronic health issues like obesity, kidney problems, pancreatitis, or cancer. It also means fewer medications, supplements, and expensive vet bills.

Raw food from trusted brands like Steve’s Real Food is made with 100% bioavailable ingredients—so every bite counts. With high-quality proteins, organic produce, and no fillers, your pet gets complete and balanced nutrition the way nature intended.

Ask Your Local Pet Store About Steve’s Real Food

The connection between diet and disease prevention is clear. If you’re ready to make the switch, look for Steve’s Real Food—crafted with only the most digestible, functional ingredients to support your pet’s health at every stage of life. With Steve’s, you’ll notice the difference: more energy, healthier skin, cleaner teeth, and a happier, healthier companion.

Want to Learn More?

We’ve just scratched the surface! Be sure to check out our FREE online course on raw feeding to get confident and informed about transitioning your pet to a raw diet.