The Cost of Feeding Raw: Is It Really More Expensive?
Feeding your pet a raw diet is often seen as a commitment to their health and well-being, but it also raises questions about cost. Many pet owners wonder, is feeding raw really more expensive than traditional commercial diets? In this post, we’ll break down the costs associated with feeding raw and explore whether it’s truly a more expensive option.
Is Feeding Raw Really More Expensive?
The question of cost can be evaluated in two ways: short-term vs. long-term costs.
- Short-Term Costs:
- In the short term, feeding raw can appear more expensive, especially when compared to budget commercial kibble. The price of raw ingredients can vary depending on their quality. Grass-fed, organic, or free-range meats tend to be more expensive than conventional options, but many pet owners prefer these higher-quality ingredients for the added nutritional benefits. However, opting for high-quality meat might still end up being cheaper than premium, high-end commercial kibble.
- Long-Term Costs:
- While feeding raw may seem more expensive upfront, many pet owners report savings on veterinary bills and health-related expenses over time. A well-balanced raw diet may lead to improved health, better digestion, shinier coats, and fewer allergies, resulting in fewer trips to the vet.
- Pets on a raw diet often experience fewer issues related to obesity, dental disease, and skin problems, which can reduce the need for costly medications or treatments down the road. These long-term health benefits can potentially offset the initial higher costs of feeding raw.
Ways to Make Raw Feeding More Affordable
If you’re interested in feeding your pet raw but are concerned about the cost, there are several strategies to make it more budget-friendly:
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- Buy in Bulk:
- Purchasing meat and bones in larger quantities can significantly reduce costs. Aunty Jo’s offers 5-10% off a box raw food, and even better, it comes frozen so it will last longer and can be thawed as necessary.
- Incorporate Soft Raw Meaty Bones:
- Raw bones are cheaper than complete BARF meals. A bone can be supplemented for a meal around once per week which can be a great way to break up the cost and save you money on teeth cleaning or removals at the vet.
- Mix and Match:
- If a full raw diet feels too costly, consider a hybrid approach by mixing raw meals with high-quality kibble or canned food. This can reduce costs while still offering some of the benefits of raw feeding.
- Buy in Bulk:
- Calculate your pet’s daily nutrition requirements:
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- Many owners overfeed their pets which incidentally means they spend more than necessary. A general rule of thumb is 2-3% of your dog’s ideal body weight per day.
Raw Diet vs. High-Quality Kibble: A Real Comparison
When considering the cost of feeding raw, it’s important to compare it to premium commercial diets rather than budget brands. High-quality kibble or wet food with human-grade ingredients can be just as expensive—if not more—than a raw diet, especially if your pet has specific health needs or food sensitivities.
For example, premium kibble designed for pets with allergies, digestive issues, or skin conditions can easily cost $100 or more per month. In comparison, a well-planned raw diet can provide similar or superior nutrition at a similar price point.
Final Thoughts: Is Feeding Raw Worth the Cost?
Raw feeding offers numerous potential health benefits that can translate to savings on vet bills, medication, and treatments in the long run. The decision ultimately depends on your budget, your pet’s health needs, and how much you care about your pets longevity.
By being strategic about buying in bulk, and feeding the correct portion size, raw feeding can become more affordable than you might think. For many pet owners, the cost is a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing they are providing their pets with the most natural and biologically appropriate diet possible.
