Statement on Feeding a Raw Meat-Based Diet

Risks of Feeding Your Pet a Raw Meat Diet

East Springfield Veterinary Hospital and World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) do not recommend feeding your cat or dog a raw meat-based diet (RMBD).

RMBDs have a high risk of contamination with bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens. If bones are included in the food, there is a risk of constipation, diarrhea, dental fractures, and gastrointestinal obstructions. Pets could also develop hyperthyroidism from excessive ingestion of thyroid tissue.