Prey Model Raw Diet
Feeding your pet a raw diet is about getting back to what nature intended. At BJ’s Raw Pet Food, we follow the Prey Model Raw (PMR) approach—feeding dogs and cats in a way that closely mirrors what their bodies are naturally designed to eat.
Both dogs and cats thrive on fresh, minimally processed foods that resemble their ancestral diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet rich in animal protein, while dogs also benefit from a protein-forward, low-carbohydrate approach.
PMR focuses on providing the proper balance of muscle meat, organs, and bone, delivering high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and very low carbohydrates. This natural balance supports strong muscles, healthy skin and coat, improved digestion, and steady energy levels.
Unlike many commercial dry or canned foods, raw feeding avoids excessive fillers, additives, and heavily processed ingredients—keeping your pet’s nutrition simple and biologically appropriate.
Nutrient Content Comparison
While every pet food varies by recipe and brand, the overall nutritional differences between a natural raw diet and typical dry pet food are consistent.
| Nutrient | Ancestral Diet | Dry Pet Food |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | ~40–70% | ~18–32% |
| Fat | ~20–40% | ~8–22% |
| Carbohydrates | ~0–15% | ~30–50% |
These ranges highlight a key difference: natural, prey-based diets are rich in animal protein and healthy fats, while many dry foods rely more heavily on carbohydrates and fillers.
By feeding a diet that better aligns with your pet’s biological needs, you can support healthier digestion, lean muscle development, and overall long-term wellness.
Benefits of Raw Feeding for Dogs & Cats
Healthy Weight & Lean Muscle
A protein-rich, species-appropriate diet helps pets maintain a healthy weight while supporting strong, lean muscle. When dogs and cats eat primarily animal protein and healthy fats, they feel more satisfied and are less likely to gain excess weight.
Think of it like a person eating mostly processed carbs (like cereal) with very little protein—over time, this can lead to weight gain and loss of muscle. The same applies to pets. Diets higher in carbohydrates and lower in quality protein can make it harder to maintain lean muscle and proper body condition.
By feeding a meat-based diet, you support muscle tone, joint health, and overall strength—helping your pet stay active and healthy.
Improved Digestion
Raw feeding is easier for pets to digest because it aligns with their natural biology. Many owners notice smaller, firmer stools and less overall waste since their body utilizes more of the nutrients in the food. Your dog and/or cat may also experience less smell and flatulence.
Skin & Coat Health
Essential fats and quality proteins contribute to a softer, shinier coat and healthier skin for both dogs and cats.
Dental Health
Fresh meaty bones help naturally support your dog’s dental health. Chewing on items like poultry feet, necks, and wings helps scrape away buildup on teeth while also strengthening jaws. It’s a natural and enjoyable way for dogs to keep their teeth clean.
In contrast, dry kibble is high in carbohydrates and can act like sugar—sticking to teeth and feeding the bacteria that contribute to bad breath and tooth decay.
Energy & Vitality
A species-appropriate diet provides steady energy levels and supports overall wellness, helping pets feel and perform their best.
A Safer, More Natural Approach
Many processed pet foods contain fillers, additives, and high levels of carbohydrates that dogs and cats don’t biologically need. In contrast, a balanced raw diet focuses on real, whole-food nutrition that supports your pet’s natural instincts and long-term health.
Safety is a common concern, but according to veterinarian Dr. Karen Becker, only a small number of recalls have involved commercial raw diets, while the vast majority have been linked to dry dog and cat foods. When handled and prepared properly, raw feeding is a safe and natural option for both dogs and cats.
At BJ’s Raw Pet Food, our goal is simple: provide safe, high-quality raw nutrition to help your pets thrive—like nature intended.