Raw Feeding Basics - Cats & Ferrets
, by Georgia Huyton, 2 min reading time
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Understanding Raw Minces: 80:10:10 vs. Complete (For Cats and Ferrets)
This guide applies to both cats and ferrets, as their nutritional needs as obligate carnivores are essentially the same.
When embarking on a raw feeding journey, you'll encounter two primary types of minces: 80:10:10 and complete. Understanding the distinction is crucial for providing a balanced diet.
- 80:10:10 Minces: This ratio represents the core components of a raw diet: 80% muscle meat, 10% raw edible bone, and 10% organ meat (5% liver, 5% other secreting organs). These minces are often labeled for dogs, but the ingredients are inherently suitable for cats and ferrets. The key is that they are a balanced base and are not designed to be a complete diet on their own. Variety is paramount. Regularly rotating protein sources (chicken, rabbit, beef, etc.) is essential to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients. Some owners also choose to supplement these minces with additional vitamins and minerals, although it is not always necessary if a wide variety of proteins are fed. Click here to learn more about 80:10:10
- Complete Minces: These are formulated to provide a nutritionally balanced meal with every serving. They incorporate the 80:10:10 ratio but are fortified with added vitamins, minerals, and often other supplements, aiming to meet all of the cat or ferrets needs within that single meal. This allows for convenience as a single protein can be feed daily with the knowledge that the animal is getting complete nutrition.
Why Variety Matters (Especially with 80:10:10)
Relying solely on one type of 80:10:10 mince can lead to imbalances. The importance of variety is that each protein has a different make up of Vitamins and minerals within the muscle meat, bones, and organs. Therefore rotating the animals that your pet consumes, rotates the vitamins and minerals that they are being provided.
Here's why rotating protein sources is crucial:
- Nutrient diversity: Different meats offer varying levels of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.
- Preventing sensitivities: Consistent exposure to a single protein can sometimes lead to food sensitivities or allergies.
- Enrichment: Variety adds enrichment, mimicking the natural diet and providing mental stimulation.
Incorporating Extras for Enrichment and Variety
While minces provide a solid foundation, you can optionally incorporate extras into your pet's diet for added enrichment and nutritional benefits, without disrupting the overall balance. These might include:
- Day-old chicks: A natural and nutrient-rich source of whole prey.
- Meaty chunks: Such as hearts, gizzards, or other muscle meats, providing varied textures and nutrients.
- Meaty bones: Like chicken or duck necks and wings, offering dental benefits and additional calcium. However, meaty bones should be offered in moderation, typically once or twice a week, to prevent potential digestive issues.
It's natural for cats and ferrets to consume these types of foods in the wild, so don't hesitate to incorporate them into their raw diet. As with any dietary change, introduce new items gradually and in moderation.
We hope this helps explain the basics of raw feeding. If you're stuck or would like further guidance, we are always here to help.
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