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Frequently Asked Questions
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are bones safe for my dog/cat?
One controversial aspect of the BARF dog diet is the use of whole, raw, meaty bones as food for our dogs. Dr B has fed his own dogs with these bones for decades, as have thousands of his clients and readers of his books. For most dogs, whole raw meaty bones do not constitute a danger. They simply and easily promote positive good health being a biologically appropriate food for our dogs. However, where there is a perceived danger, do not stop feeding bones. In these cases, simply use bones that have been finely ground.
Is BARF safe for Puppies and Kittens?
The answer is YES! MOST DEFINITELY! The patties are totally suitable for cats and dogs of all ages, including young pups and kittens. The patties may be used as the weaning food and then continued throughout life.
How should I store my B.A.R.F?
A raw pet food diet will spoil if left unrefrigerated for an extended period of time. To thaw, remove from bag, place in a container with lid and defrost in refrigerator. Excess food should be refrigerated for the next feeding or discarded.
Patties should be kept in the freezer until removed for thawing.
Safe Handling Instructions
Raw meat products may contain bacteria that could cause illness if mishandled. Wash working surfaces, utensils and hands with hot soapy water after each feeding. Treat as you would any raw meat product. Do not re-freeze once thawed.
How much should I feed my Dog?
These products are formulated according to the principles of Evolutionary Nutrition and on that basis may be fed as the whole diet, or combined with varying proportions of raw meaty bones and other whole raw healthy foods.
Typically, many raw feeders will feed equal amounts of patties and raw meaty bones. Raw meaty bones commonly used are chicken necks, wings and carcasses, lamb flaps, beef brisket, soft pork bones etc.
Healthy Adult Dogs - not exercising
Feed 2% - 3% of bodyweight per day
Pregnant Females
First two thirds of pregnancy - 2% - 3% of bodyweight per day
Last third of pregnancy - 3% - 4% bodyweight per day
Puppies - Small to Medium Breeds
Feed 3% - 5% of bodyweight per day
Puppies - Giant Breeds
Feed 2% - 4% of bodyweight per day
Important to grow slowly - can be useful to add extra veggie pulp
Do not add extra calcium - Do feed soft bones daily
Working/Racing/Active dogs
Feed 3% - 6% of bodyweight per day when working/active
Feed food with higher fat content to increase energy supply
Feed 2% - 3% of bodyweight per day when not working
Lactating Females - Depending on litter size and age of puppies
Feed from between 3% and 6% of bodyweight - up to free choice
Animals with Health issues such as Kidney, Liver, Pancreas Disease
These dogs usually require extra vegetable material, sometimes with less fat, we suggest you try the Kangaroo Recipe.
How much should I feed my cat or kitten?
Healthy Adult Cats
Feed 4% of bodyweight per day (divided into 2 to 3 meals)
Kittens
Feed 5-6% of bodyweight per day (divided into 4 to 5 meals)
Pregnant Females
First third of pregnancy - 4% of bodyweight per day (divided into 2 to 3 meals)
Second third of pregnancy - 4-5% bodyweight per day (divided into 3 meals)
Last third of pregnancy - 5% bodyweight per day (divided into 4 meals)
Lactating Females - Depending on litter size and age of kittens
Feed from between 5-6% of bodyweight per day - up to free choice
Important
Always adjust amount fed to maintain desired body weight and condition.
For simple obesity, reduce amount of food fed, reduce bones and reduce fat but do not starve the cat. Calories fed may also be reduced by adding small amounts of low glycaemic index vegetable pulp to the patties (eg. from your juicer).
When feeding 50% patties and 50% raw meaty bones, feed half the above plus an equal amount raw meaty bones. This may be fed as two meals daily, a patty meal and a raw meaty bone meal.
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BIOLOGICALLY APPROPRIATE RAW FOOD Diet
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