What is 80:10:10?

The 80:10:10 ratio is a simple guideline for raw feeding that consists of 80% muscle meat, 10% raw meaty bones, and 10% organ meat (with 5% being liver). This provides a balanced diet that mimics what dogs and cats would eat in the wild.

What is Complete Raw Food?

Complete raw food is pre-prepared and balanced to meet all nutritional requirements. It includes the 80:10:10 ratio plus additional ingredients like vegetables, fruits, and supplements to ensure complete nutrition according to FEDIAF guidelines.

Which Should You Choose?

80:10:10 DIY: More control over ingredients, potentially more cost-effective, requires research and preparation time, need to ensure variety.

Complete Raw: Convenient, nutritionally balanced, ready to feed, ideal for beginners, no preparation needed.

FEDIAF Explained

FEDIAF (The European Pet Food Industry Federation) sets nutritional guidelines for pet food in Europe. These guidelines ensure that pet food meets the nutritional needs of dogs and cats at different life stages.

Why FEDIAF Matters

When a raw food product is FEDIAF compliant, it means:

• It meets strict nutritional standards for complete and balanced nutrition
• It's formulated to provide all essential nutrients
• It's suitable for daily feeding without additional supplements
• It's been formulated by qualified pet nutritionists
• It meets requirements for specific life stages (puppy, adult, senior)

FEDIAF Complete vs Complementary

FEDIAF Complete: Can be fed as a sole diet, nutritionally complete for daily feeding.

Complementary (Non-FEDIAF): Should be fed alongside other foods to ensure balanced nutrition, often used as treats, toppers, or part of a varied diet.

DEFRA Explained

DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) is the UK government department responsible for safeguarding our natural environment, supporting food and farming, and sustaining a thriving rural economy.

DEFRA and Pet Food

DEFRA regulates pet food safety and standards in the UK, ensuring:

• Raw pet food is produced in approved, registered facilities
• Strict hygiene and safety standards are maintained
• Traceability of ingredients from source to product
• Proper labelling and consumer information
• Regular inspections and compliance checks

Why DEFRA Approval Matters

When you buy raw pet food from a DEFRA-approved supplier, you can be confident that:

• The facility meets government food safety standards
• Products are produced in hygienic, controlled conditions
• Ingredients are sourced from approved suppliers
• The business is regularly inspected and monitored
• You're feeding your pet safe, quality food

Always look for DEFRA approval when choosing a raw food supplier to ensure you're getting the highest quality and safest products for your pet.

Switching Methods

There are two main approaches to switching your pet to raw food:

1. Cold Turkey Method

Switch immediately from kibble to raw. This works well for most pets with healthy digestive systems.

• Fast your pet for 12-24 hours before the switch
• Start with a single protein source (like chicken)
• Feed smaller portions for the first few days
• Monitor stools and adjust as needed

2. Gradual Transition

Mix raw food with current food over 7-10 days. Better for pets with sensitive stomachs.

• Days 1-2: 25% raw, 75% old food
• Days 3-4: 50% raw, 50% old food
• Days 5-6: 75% raw, 25% old food
• Day 7+: 100% raw

Important Tips

• Always supervise initial raw bone feeding
• Keep meals simple at first - one protein at a time
• Ensure fresh water is always available
• Loose stools are normal for the first week as the digestive system adjusts
• Don't panic if your pet has a detox period (this is normal)
• Contact us if you have any concerns - we're here to help!