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Danger Of
Raw Meat Diet
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Myths about proper
diets for our dogs and cats seem always to be with us. Some of
these myths may have a grain of truth, but this truth is often
greatly exaggerated or misapplied. Other myths are nurtured by
misinformation and mistrust.
One myth that could be threatening to our pets' health involves
raw meat diets for dogs. The proponents of this belief question
the wholesomeness and nutritional value of commercial pet foods.
But in fact there is no scientific substantiation for raw meat
diets. Indeed, there are several known drawbacks:
Although meat is a source of protein, it has very low levels of
calcium, a mineral our pets require for proper bone and tooth
development. Calcium also plays an important role in blood
clotting, muscle contraction and transmission of nerve impulses.
But simply supplementing with calcium won’t work. Mineral
nutrients are interrelated. Calcium and phosphorus have a
scientifically established relationship in the formation of
bones and teeth, provided a proper balance is maintained. This
balance is usually not present in meat. If large quantities of
raw meat are fed over time, skeletal problems may develop.
Liver is often thought of as a ‘healthy’ meat because it has a
high level of Vitamin A, a fat-soluble vitamin that is stored by
the body. And for humans who eat others things as well, it can
be healthy. But when liver is fed to pets in large quantities
over a period of time, Vitamin A toxicity can result. This can
lead to improper bone development, lameness and bone
decalcification.
Raw meat carries the threat of bacteria and parasites, including
salmonella. The risk of salmonellas is always present when
pets are fed raw meat diets. Certain species of tapeworm can be
found in raw meat and passed on to a pet who ingests the meat.
Raw meat diets do not replicate the diets of dogs in the wild.
While it's true that dogs consume muscle meat when they eat wild
animals for survival, they also consume the bones, intestinal
contents and internal organs, which come closer to providing a
complete and balanced diet. Wild dogs are also known to eat
grasses and other vegetable matter.
The truth is that good quality pet foods are backed by years of
canine nutrition studies. They are the result of scientific
studies by researchers in veterinary colleges and animal
nutritionists at reputable pet food manufacturers. They are also
carefully processed to protect against salmonella or internal
parasite infection.
When people eat, they combine meat with vegetables, fruits,
breads and other foods to give them the balanced nutrition they
need. If we were to eat one particular food consistently,
chances are we would become malnourished or develop health
problems. No single food or food group can provide all the
nutrients we need in proper proportions.
Manufacturers of good quality pet foods follow the same
philosophy, incorporating all the nutrients a dog needs during a
particular life stage into nutritionally complete and balanced
diets.
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