The Raw Truth About Raw Diets for Pets in Singapore

Raw diet dog food and raw diet cat food in Singapore has been growing, with more pawrents swapping kibbles for raw meats, bones, and organs. 

The idea is to feed pets like their ancestors, straight from the wild. Sounds primal, but in modern-day Singapore, it’s a little less jungle hunt and a little more freezer aisle.

What is a raw diet?

Raw feeding or BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) is a diet for cats and dogs made up of uncooked foods such as raw meat, offal and raw bone, along with other ingredients such as fruit, vegetables, oils, nuts and seeds. It's basically cai fan for pets, except everything’s raw. 

There are two types of raw feeding: homemade and commercially prepared.

Raw diet for cats and dogs is mirroring what they would naturally eat in the wild, but just like with our own makan, what goes into the bowl makes all the difference.

What’s in a complete and balanced raw diet?

BARF method recommends using 70% muscle meat, 10% raw meaty bones, 10% organs (with at least 5% being liver), 10% fruits, vegetables, or dairy (such as kefir, goat's milk, or other suitable dairy sources, but avoid cow's milk products).

What are the benefits of a raw diet?

Some pet parents favour raw diets, and it’s easy to see why. Here’s how this way of feeding has become a favourite.

• Shiny and healthier coats
  One of the most touted benefits is that shinier coat that practically glows under HDB corridor lighting. The high-quality proteins and natural oils in raw food apparently work better than the most expensive pet shampoo!

• Improved digestion
  Tired of clearing up soft, messy poops? Many pet parents swore by the effects of raw feeding in their pets. With fewer fillers and extra enzymes, it’s gentler on digestion, giving smaller, firmer stools that are easier to clean.
  

In Singapore's humidity, this is particularly appreciated by anyone who's ever had to clean up after their pet in a tiny apartment with poor ventilation.

• Healthier teeth in pets
  Gnawing on raw meaty bones can help scrape away plaque and tartar, naturally keeping teeth clean. For cats, chewing meat also keeps their jaw strong, reducing dental issues down the road. Fewer vet trips for dental cleaning means more savings for your kopi fund!

• Bolstered immune system
  Raw diets can provide a natural energy boost thanks to their high-quality protein and nutrient-dense ingredients. Many pawrents report their pets being more alert, playful, and generally zoomier. 

• Reduced allergies or sensitivities
  Some pets are more sensitive to food than others. Raw feeding skips the fillers and artificial extras that can trigger allergies that sometimes show up as itchy skin, ear infection, or tummy upset.
  

What are the risks of a raw diet?

Before serving raw meals to your pets, remember it also comes with its fair share of hiccups.

• Bacteria in raw food
  Sure, raw meat is tasty for your pet, but it’s also a breeding ground for bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. Sadly, they don’t just stay in the bowl. They can end up on your counters, floors, and even your hands. In a family setting, that means everyone from toddlers to ah gong could be exposed.

• Nutritional balance issues
  Putting just about anything in your pet’s food bowl is not the right way to go. Pets need a complete and balanced meal to make sure they stay healthy. Poor planning of raw diets can lead to deficiencies. When in doubt, consult with your vet.
  

• Food safety in the Singapore climate
  Singapore’s heat and humidity are no friend to raw meat. Left out too long, it spoils at lightning speed. Even when stored, you’ll need freezer space to keep food fresh. 

What are the alternatives to raw feeding?

If you love the idea of raw but don’t fancy the prepping and cleanups, there are safer, easier options.

Freeze-dried raw is pretty much like bak kwa for pets. Meaty and delicious, but freeze dried to keep fresh for longer. The process locks in nutrients, removes moisture and bacteria risk, and makes mealtime fuss-free. What’s left is all the raw goodness without the spoilage.

Boneve Freeze Dried is made in New Zealand with up to 98.8% meat, organs, and bones, plus complete Vitamin Bs. It’s as close to nature as you can get without needing gloves and disinfectant wipes. Bonus: it’s shelf-stable, so no need to fight for freezer space with your ice cream tubs.

Loveabowl Freeze Dried is grain-free, nutrient-packed recipes designed to be light, tasty, and fuss-free. Just add water and serve. Cats and dogs lap it up, and you get to keep your kitchen spotless.

Lightly cooked diets are another gentler option, but freeze-dried wins for ease of preparation (no cooking, no thawing, no worrying). Plus, storage is a breeze. No fridge Tetris required.

What are vets saying?

Most vets don’t give a straight yes or no when it comes to raw diets. They’ll often agree there can be benefits, but they’re quick to highlight the risks too. In other words, vet recommended does not always mean raw diet approved.

In Singapore, many vet recommended alternatives deliver the same perks without the bacteria worries. With our hot and humid climate, those options tend to be a much better fit for both pets and pawrents.

Is raw feeding affordable?

Raw feeding in Singapore isn't cheap. Affordable raw food Singapore exists, but you'll need to shop around and plan carefully.

Commercial BARF diet brands are available from local pet shops to online delivery services that understand our climate and import restrictions. The convenience costs more, but saves you from endless defrosting and thawing.

To raw or not to raw?

The raw diet for dogs and raw cat food in Singapore has its appeal, but the local climate, storage, and food safety risks mean it isn’t for everyone. If you want the glow-up benefits without the hassle, freeze-dried raw food is a smart middle ground.

The best diet is one you can provide consistently and safely. Your pet cares more about getting fed reliably than following what’s going viral online.

Give your pet the benefits of raw food, minus the fuss. Shop our freeze-dried raw food for cats and dogs.