Feeding Guidelines

Adult Dogs & Cats

Start with 2.5% of your pet's body weight daily as a general feeding guide for maintaining a healthy weight in adult dogs and cats. Adjust based on individual needs and activity level.

  • While 2.5% of body weight is a good starting point for adults, remember, every animal is unique! Monitor your pet for signs of hunger or weight changes and adjust accordingly. Increase to 3% or higher for active or underweight pets, and consider 1.5-2% for seniors, less active or overweight pets.
  • Think of 2.5% of your pet's weight as their "Goldilocks" food amount – just right for maintaining a healthy weight! But every dog and cat has different appetites and lifestyles. If they're begging for more or shedding pounds, bump it up to 3% or more. Feeling a little sluggish? A 1.5% portion might be perfect. Listen to your pet's body and adjust their meals accordingly.

Puppies & Kittens

Its important to feed your puppy/kitten several times a day. As they get older, you can reduce the daily feeds.

Method 1: The basic way is to feed 2.5% of expected adult weight. However, whilst this works for some, as expected adult weight can be fairly broad it is easy to underfeed, especially if your puppy turns out to be larger than the breed standards.

Method 2: Feeding unlimited amounts. Food pays a huge role in development, some people like to offer as much food as your puppy/kitten can eat several times throughout the day. Simply offer a large amount of food and when your pet has finished, take it away and put back in the fridge. It is handy to weigh the food before and after to monitor their intake.

Method 3: Feeding a percentage based on age and weight. When starting your pet on a percentage-based diet, use the higher end of the recommended range for their age and weight. As they mature and inch closer to the next age bracket, gently taper down their portions to the lower end, creating a seamless shift to the next stage.

Puppies By age (feed daily)

  • 7-10 weeks - 8-10% split over 4 meals
  • 10-16 weeks - 7.5-8.5% split over 4 meals
  • 16-20 weeks - 6.5-7.5% split over 3 meals
  • 20-24 weeks 5.5-6.5% split over 3 meals
  • 24-36 weeks 4.5-5.5% split over 2 meals
  • 36-52weeks - 3.5-4.5% split over 2 meals
  • 1 year and up: Follow adult guide.

Kittens By age (feed daily)

  • 2-4 months - 10-13% split over 4 meals
  • 4-8 months - 6-8% split over 3 meals
  • 8-12 months 3-6% split over 2-3 meals
  • 1 year and up - Follow adult guide.

REMEMBER: Always feed the pet infront of you. Feeding guidelines are just that - a guide - use your initiative to adjust accordingly.

Ferrets

Adult Ferrets require around 10% spread over at least 2 meals per day, whilst kits require around 20% over 4 meals per day.

As obligate carnivores ferrets do not need veg therefore 80:10:10 minces are the best food for them, or any of the cat food options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I work out percentages?

We work out feeding in grams, and use kilogram for your pets bodyweight.

This example is for a pet weighing 4.8kg needing 2.5% of its body weight daily. You can use a calculator to work this out.

4.8 x 2.5 x 10 = 120

(Formula is pets body weight in kg, times by daily food percentage , times that number by 10)

Your pet would need 120g daily.

I weigh the food out but it doesn't look like a lot of food, Is this normal?

YES! It is very common for people to think what they are feeding does not look enough, especially when switching from kibble to raw.

Raw food is full of nutrients, and meat is much more filling that carbohydrates.

Think of it like switching from pasta to steak – you wouldn't need the same amount for the same level of satisfaction!"

The most important thing is that your pet is of a healthy weight. Only start to worry if you notice weight loss, in which case, up the food a little. Please see our 'body score' chart below.

Is raw feeding safe for me and my family?

We only stock products from DEFRA-registered companies. DEFRA,the Department for Environment,Food & Rural Affairs,sets strict regulations concerning hygiene,processing,and storage of pet food in the UK.This ensures the meat used is of high quality and suitable for both pets and humans (though not intended for human consumption)

Just remember to follow the same standards when prepping meals as you would when preparing your own raw food. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw pet food. Disinfect surfaces that come into contact with raw food. Always pick up your pets bowl when they have finished eating and wash it.

Raw food can be stored in your freezer along side your own food but when defrosted, keep it in the fridge in a sealed container on the bottom shelf away from cooked/fresh food.

When feeding raw, meals tend to be eaten in one go, which means it isnt left sitting around all day like a bowl of kibble.

By following these simple hygiene and handling guidelines,you can enjoy the benefits of raw feeding while minimizing any potential risks, making it no more of a risk than handling and preparing your own food.

Do I gradually introduce raw or make a straight switch?

We recommend a straight switch to raw,but gradual introductions work too! Do what feels right for your pet ,considering their age,personality and dietary history.

My vet says raw is bad, is this true?

Vets often receive training on commercially produced pet food during their education which can make them biased towards kibble, while some also specialize in pet nutrition (these are much more likely to be pro-raw and also helpful when it comes to advice regarding a raw diet).

Additionally, they may encounter cases where unbalanced home-prepared raw diets have caused health issues in pets. This can lead to concerns about raw feeding in general.

We offer a range of carefully formulated raw minced diets, including FEDIAF-approved options, carefully balanced to provide complete and essential nutrients for your dog when fed according to our guidelines. These balanced raw options can minimize the potential risks associated with unbalanced home-prepared raw diets. Choosing a commercially produced, nutritionally-complete raw diet can be a responsible way to explore the potential benefits of raw feeding for your pet.

The good news is, in recent years, many vets are becoming more aware of raw feeding and the benefits it has to offer. Many are also learning more about it, making the switch themselves and expanding their nutritional knowledge to advice accordingly.

You can find your nearest pro raw vet by clicking the link here.

The nearest one to Dagenham is Wylie in Upminster. Click here.

I'm new to raw and unsure where to start, can you help?

Take a look at any of our 80:10:10 recipes or our B.A.R.F recipes. Feed a nice variation of proteins (flavours) at least 3, more if you can.

You can mix and match brands with no issues and it is safe to feed a mix of B.A.R.F and 80:10:10 if you like.

Bones and extras/whole prey are optional - though your pet may really enjoy them as a treat!

If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to us!

What is F.E.D.I.A.F

FEDIAF stands for European Pet Food Industry Federation. It's the trade association representing the European pet food industry, with members from approximately 18 countries and five companies.

Here's what FEDIAF does:

  • Sets guidelines and standards for pet food production and safety in Europe. This includes regulations on ingredients, nutrient content, labeling, and manufacturing practices.
  • Conducts research on pet nutrition and health. This research helps ensure that pet food products are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs and cats at different stages of life.
  • Advocates for the interests of the pet food industry. This includes lobbying governments and regulatory bodies on issues that impact the industry.

What does being FEDIAF-approved mean for raw food?

When you see a raw food product labelled as FEDIAF-approved, it means that it has been independently tested and verified to meet the strict nutritional guidelines and safety standards set by the organization. This gives pet owners assurance that the product is complete and balanced, providing all the essential nutrients their dog or cat needs for a healthy diet.

If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

What is 80:10:10?

The 80:10:10 ratio refers to a the ratio of meat, bone and offal in a raw food diet.

  • 80% muscle meat: This provides the main source of protein and energy for your pet. The meat can come from various sources, like chicken, beef, lamb, or fish.
  • 10% offal: This includes offal meats like liver and kidney. These are rich in vital nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, that are essential for your pet's health.
  • 10% bone:  Bones provide valuable nutrients like calcium and phosphorus.

Complete and balanced: When feeding a variety of proteins, this ratio can provide all the essential nutrients your pet needs for a healthy life.

Whatis B.A.R.F?

BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food. It refers to a balanced raw diet that contains vegetables and/or fruits/superfoods.

Here are the key components of a BARF diet:

  • Muscle meat: This forms the majority of the diet, providing protein and fat. Chicken, beef, lamb, turkey and fish are common sources.
  • Offal: Livers, kidneys, and are rich in essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals. 
  • Bones: Edible bones provide calcium, phosphorus.
  • Fruits and vegetables: These offer additional vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They might be included in small amounts (5-20%)

Do i need to mix raw with biscuits/kibble?

When feeding a balanced raw diet, there is no reason or need to mix with biscuits. Your pet will be getting all the nutrition they need from a balanced raw diet.

Can I Feed my Cat/Ferret 'raw dog food?'

Any of the 80:10:10 minces are perfectly fine to feed to your cat or ferret. Avoid feeding any B.A.R.F foods as these contain fruits and veggies which are not needed in cats and ferrets diets.

Taurine is essential in cats and ferrets diets, whilst it is found in all meat, it is higher in dark/red meats and heart. This includes thigh, beef, lamb, pork,goat and venison.

By adding heart to 80:10:10 minces or mainly feeding the above proteins/cuts you should be feeding enough taurine. If in doubt, you can always add a taurine supplement for peace of mind.

Overall, you can absolutely feed dog food to your cat or ferret.

Body Score Chart

A pet body score chart is a tool used by veterinarians and pet owners to visually assess a pet's body condition and determine if they are at a healthy weight. It works by assigning point values based on specific visual and tactile cues, such as the visibility of ribs, the presence of an abdominal tuck, and the overall body shape.

  • You can assess your pet's body score by looking at them from above and from the side, and by gently feeling their ribs and spine.
  • Compare your observations to the descriptions and pictures on the chart to determine the most appropriate score.

Got a question or just want to chat? Fill in the form below and we will be in touch. Alternatively, you can call us on 07931 208 951.