Feeding 80:10:10 Minces to cats & Ferrets
, by Georgia Huyton, 2 min reading time
Raw Feeding Made Simple: The 80:10:10 Solution (The Smart Shopper's Choice, Ironically Perfect for Cats)
Let's start with the basics. Raw feeding offers several paths: some prefer DIY, meticulously crafting their own minces; others opt for species-specific "complete" meals. But the most popular method (and arguably simplest if you have a multi-species household) is using 80:10:10 minces. This approach stands out for its balanced composition and universal suitability—perfect for dogs, cats, and ferrets alike.
Why 80:10:10 Reigns Supreme (And Saves You Money, Especially For Felines):
These minces, consisting of 80% muscle meat, 10% bone, and 10% organ, provide a foundation for a naturally balanced diet. You can feed them as is, rotating protein sources for variety, or add your own extras. For cats and ferrets, these extras are minimal—often just a "completer" supplement or added taurine. Now, here's the smart shopper's secret: while you can find 80:10:10 minces labeled for cats, most are labeled as "working dog food." This is because working dog food is exempt from VAT, making it significantly cheaper. Rest assured, it's the exact same high-quality ingredients, just a budget-friendly label. This is why it's a well-known, savvy trick among raw feeders—you can confidently feed these minces to your cats and ferrets without compromise. Ironically, these 80:10:10 minces are often more suitable for cats and ferrets than they are for dogs, as dogs often benefit from added vegetables, which are absent in this specific ratio. It's affordable, effective, and contains the same high-quality ingredients found in pricier raw cat foods. Simply put, it's a cost-effective way to provide your carnivore with the nutrition they need, without compromise.
Benefits of feeding Raw
- Species Appropriate: Cats & Ferrets are obligate carnivores, they rely on meat to survive and thrive. A raw diet is the most natural diet for them.
- Improved digestion and nutrient absorption: Raw food is purported to be more easily digestible, potentially leading to better nutrient absorption and reduced waste.
- Shinier coat and healthier skin: The higher intake of animal-based fats and proteins in raw food may contribute to improvements coat and skin.
- Increased energy and vitality: Some owners report increased energy and vitality in their pets after switching to a raw diet, potentially due to improved nutrition and better digestion.
- Better dental health: Chewing on raw meaty bones may help to scrape away plaque and tartar, promoting healthier teeth and gums.
- Stronger immune system: Nutrients in raw food, particularly those from organs and bones, are thought to support a stronger immune system.
