Feeding a Raw Diet

Raw Feeding for Cats | Why Lil’ Star Siberians Eat a Species-Appropriate Diet

In 2020, Sean and I began our own health journey into the carnivore/keto world. We eliminated processed foods and ate strictly carnivore for about three years before transitioning into a simple whole-foods diet of grass-fed beef and locally grown organic fruits and vegetables.

We saw such drastic improvements in our own health that it made us question the highly processed food we were feeding our cats and dogs. That’s what sent me down the rabbit hole of information about the benefits of feeding cats what they are biologically designed to eat, unprocessed, whole food.

Lil’ Star Siberians Eat an 80% Raw Diet

My Lil’ Star Siberians consume a diet of 80% raw meat and organs, mimicking their ancestral diet. They still have high-quality, carnivore-friendly kibble available to snack on, but I prioritize filling them up with nutrient-dense raw food first.

Benefits of a Raw Diet for Cats

✅ Stronger, healthier immune system

✅ Shiny, healthy coats & lower allergens (important for allergy-sensitive homes!)

✅ Better muscle tone and overall physique

✅ Smaller, less smelly poops 💩 (a win for everyone!)

✅ Fewer, if any, food allergy-related issues

✅ Healthier gums and teeth (less risk of periodontal disease)

✅ Better weight control

Is Raw Feeding Safe for Cats?

Yes! A cat’s digestive system is designed for raw meat. Their short, acidic digestive tract helps break down bacteria before it can cause issues. However, proper food handling is essential:

• Always source high-quality meat from trusted suppliers.

• Store raw meals in the freezer and defrost in the fridge.

• Clean food prep areas and bowls after each meal.

Why Are Cats Meant to Eat Raw?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat animal-based protein to thrive. Unlike omnivores, they lack the digestive enzymes needed to process carbohydrates efficiently. Commercial dry food often contains grains, legumes, and starches. None of which are part of a cat’s natural diet. Feeding raw mimics what wild cats eat and provides essential nutrients in the most digestible form.

After trying and researching different raw food companies, I decided on Viva Raw because it’s one I truly trust. Their recipes are complete, and they include thoughtful ingredients like kelp, probiotics, and fish oil, not just meat and bone. I usually make raw food at home when I have time between litters, but when life gets busy, I love having a high-quality, ready to serve option that I feel good about feeding my cats. 

You can use my link and code [CRYSTALESCOBAR] for 20% off your first order. 🐾

🐾 Monthly Feeding Cost Comparison (Per Cat)

Pre-Made Raw (e.g. Viva Raw)

• ~$84/month

• Complete, balanced raw

• No prep, super convenient

DIY Raw at Home

• ~$42/month

• Same nutrition as pre-made

• Most affordable, but requires prep & grinder

Tiki Cat Wet + Kibble

• ~$80–$100/month

• High-quality commercial option

• Easy to serve, but not as hydrating or biologically optimal as raw

How to Transition Your Cat to Raw

Some cats take to raw food immediately, while others need a slow introduction. If your cat is hesitant:

• Start by mixing a small amount of raw food into their current diet.

• Gradually increase raw portions over 7-14 days.

• Lightly searing the outside of raw meat can help picky eaters adjust.

• Try different proteins, some cats prefer chicken, others beef or turkey.

• If switching from kibble, consider using freeze-dried raw as an in-between step.

Beginner-Friendly Raw Feeding Recipe (80/10/10 Ratio)

🐾 Ingredients:

• 0.8 lbs bone-in meat (chicken wings, thighs, or pork ribs)

• 2.14 lbs boneless meat (chicken, turkey, pork, duck, or beef—rotate proteins regularly)

• 1 lb boneless pork or duck

• 0.46 lbs liver (avoid pork liver; chicken or beef liver works best)

• 0.5 lbs heart (best source of taurine; if unavailable, I use freeze-dried hearts)

• 2 whole raw eggs (no shell)

• 0.4 lbs canned sardines (in water, no salt—salmon or omega drops also work) You don't need to mix in the sardines, my cats love eating them separate, more flavorful. 

• 1 cup water or bone broth per pound of total meat

🐾 Instructions:

1. Grind or finely chop all ingredients. I found a nice inexpensive meat grinder on Amazon.

2. Mix thoroughly and portion into meal-sized servings.

3. Freeze portions and defrost as needed.

🔹 Multiply recipe x3 for a 15 lb cat’s one-month supply 🔹

🔹 Rotate recipes every 3-7 days to ensure variety 🔹

Raw Feeding Tips & Best Practices

• Bone content matters! Too much = white, chalky poop. Too little = soft, shapeless stool.

• Never feed sodium-injected meats (often labeled “enhanced”).

• Store meals properly—raw meat stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days before needing to be discarded.

• Cats require more fat in their diet. Pork and duck are excellent fatty protein sources.

• Taurine is crucial! Chicken thighs & hearts are rich in taurine and should be included in meals.

• Probiotics improve digestion. I make my own kefir from raw milk and add a little to my cats’ morning meal. You can also use a high-quality probiotic powder.

Want to Learn More About Raw Feeding?

I highly recommend joining a Facebook group dedicated to raw feeding to learn from experienced feeders, find different recipes, and get support.

➡️ Check out my Amazon list for Optimal Kitty Health 

Raw feeding may seem overwhelming at first, but once you get the basics down, it’s simple—and your cat will thrive! 🌿✨