How to Cook Raw Food for Cats

This guide teaches you how to cook raw food for cats the right way—balancing nutrition, safety, and simplicity. You’ll learn essential steps, ingredient choices, and storage tips to keep your cat healthy and happy.

Key Takeaways

• Raw diets can boost your cat’s health: When prepared correctly, raw food supports digestion, coat shine, and energy levels.
• Safety is non-negotiable: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients and follow strict hygiene to avoid bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli.
• Balance is key: Cats need taurine, calcium, and essential fatty acids—don’t skip supplements or organ meats.
• Start slow and observe: Introduce raw food gradually and watch for changes in appetite, stool, or behavior.
• Freeze before feeding: Freezing meat for at least 72 hours reduces parasite risk, especially with wild-caught or game meats.
• Consult your vet first: Especially if your cat has health issues like kidney disease or a weakened immune system.
• Portion control matters: Feed 2–4% of your cat’s body weight daily, split into 2–3 meals.

How to Cook Raw Food for Cats: A Complete Guide

If you’re looking to give your cat the best nutrition possible, you’ve probably heard about raw feeding. Many cat parents are switching from kibble to raw diets because they believe it’s closer to what cats eat in the wild. But here’s the thing: raw doesn’t have to mean uncooked. In fact, learning how to cook raw food for cats can be a safe, effective way to provide balanced nutrition while reducing risks like bacteria and parasites.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from choosing the right ingredients to preparing meals your cat will love. Whether you’re a first-time raw feeder or just curious about homemade cat food, you’ll find practical steps, expert tips, and answers to common concerns.

By the end, you’ll feel confident creating nutritious, vet-approved meals that support your cat’s health, energy, and longevity.

Why Feed Raw Food to Cats?

Cats are obligate carnivores. That means their bodies are built to thrive on animal-based protein, not grains or plant matter. In the wild, cats eat whole prey—muscle meat, organs, bones, and even some stomach contents. This natural diet gives them the nutrients they need in a highly digestible form.

Commercial kibble often contains fillers, preservatives, and cooked grains that aren’t ideal for cats. Even high-quality canned food can lose nutrients during processing. Raw feeding aims to mimic a cat’s ancestral diet, offering benefits like:

• Shinier coat and healthier skin
• Improved digestion and smaller stools
• Increased energy and muscle tone
• Better dental health (chewing raw meat helps clean teeth)
• Reduced risk of urinary tract issues

But raw doesn’t have to mean risky. Cooking raw ingredients—lightly or partially—can kill harmful bacteria while preserving most nutrients. This middle ground gives you the best of both worlds: safety and nutrition.

Is It Safe to Cook Raw Food for Cats?

Yes—when done correctly. Cooking raw meat reduces the risk of pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli. However, overcooking can destroy essential nutrients like taurine, which cats can’t produce on their own.

The key is light cooking. You’re not turning raw food into stew. Instead, you’re gently heating it to a safe internal temperature (around 160°F or 71°C) to kill bacteria without ruining nutrition.

Note: Some raw feeders prefer completely uncooked diets. That’s fine if you follow strict safety protocols. But if you’re new to raw feeding or have concerns about bacteria, light cooking is a smart compromise.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

• Fresh, high-quality meat: Choose human-grade sources like chicken, turkey, rabbit, or beef. Avoid processed meats or those with added salt, spices, or preservatives.
• Organ meats: Liver (chicken or beef) and kidney are rich in vitamins and minerals. Aim for 10% of the total diet.
• Bone-in meat or bone substitute: Ground bone or a calcium supplement (like eggshell powder) is crucial for calcium balance.
• Supplements: Taurine, fish oil (for omega-3s), and a feline multivitamin may be needed depending on your recipe.
• Kitchen tools: Sharp knife, cutting board, food scale, mixing bowl, and airtight containers.
• Freezer space: For storing pre-portioned meals.
• Thermometer: To check cooking temperature.

Always wash your hands, utensils, and surfaces before and after handling raw meat. Use separate cutting boards for meat and veggies to avoid cross-contamination.

Step-by-Step: How to Cook Raw Food for Cats

Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Follow these steps to prepare a balanced, safe raw meal for your cat.

Step 1: Choose the Right Ingredients

Not all meats are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Muscle meat (80–85% of the diet): Chicken thighs, turkey breast, rabbit, or lean beef. These provide protein and energy.
• Organ meat (10%): Liver is a must—it’s packed with vitamin A. Kidney, spleen, or heart can also be used.
• Bones or calcium source (5–10%): Ground raw bone (like chicken necks) or a calcium supplement. Never use cooked bones—they can splinter.
• Optional additions: Small amounts of cooked pumpkin (for fiber), egg yolk (rich in choline), or fish oil (for omega-3s).

Avoid:

• Onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, chocolate, and xylitol (all toxic to cats)
• Raw fish in large amounts (can cause thiamine deficiency)
• Excessive fat (can lead to pancreatitis)

Step 2: Weigh and Measure

Use a food scale to measure ingredients accurately. A typical meal for a 10-pound cat is about 2–3 ounces (55–85 grams) per day, split into two meals.

Example recipe (for one 3-oz meal):

• 2 oz (57g) chicken thigh (with skin)
• 0.3 oz (8g) chicken liver
• 0.3 oz (8g) ground chicken bone or 1/4 tsp eggshell powder
• 1/4 tsp fish oil
• 1/8 tsp taurine powder (if not already in meat)

Adjust portions based on your cat’s weight, age, and activity level. Kittens and pregnant cats need more calories.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat

1. Thaw safely: If using frozen meat, thaw it in the fridge overnight—never at room temperature.
2. Trim excess fat: Remove large fat deposits to prevent digestive upset.
3. Cut into small pieces: Dice meat and organs into bite-sized chunks (about 1/2 inch). This makes cooking even and feeding easier.
4. Grind if needed: Some cats prefer ground food. Use a meat grinder or food processor, but clean thoroughly afterward.

Step 4: Cook Lightly

Light cooking is the secret to safe raw feeding. Here’s how:

1. Heat a non-stick skillet or saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add a small amount of water or broth (no oil needed).
3. Add the meat and organs. Stir occasionally.
4. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check.
5. The meat should be opaque and firm, but not browned or crispy.
6. Remove from heat and let cool.

Note: Do not boil or overcook. High heat destroys taurine and other heat-sensitive nutrients.

Step 5: Add Supplements

Once the meat has cooled slightly (but is still warm), mix in supplements:

• Taurine: 250–500 mg per pound of food. Essential for heart and eye health.
• Fish oil: 200–300 mg EPA+DHA per 10 lbs of body weight. Use a high-quality, mercury-free brand.
• Calcium: If not using bone, add 1/4 tsp eggshell powder per 3 oz of meat.
• Multivitamin: Optional, but helpful if your recipe lacks variety.

Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

Step 6: Portion and Store

Divide the cooked food into meal-sized portions. Use an ice cube tray for small servings, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags.

Label each container with the date and ingredients. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

When ready to feed, thaw in the fridge overnight. Serve at room temperature—cats prefer food slightly warm.

Sample Recipes for Cooked Raw Cat Food

Here are two simple, balanced recipes to get you started.

Recipe 1: Chicken & Liver Dinner

• 4 oz (113g) boneless chicken thighs
• 0.5 oz (14g) chicken liver
• 0.5 oz (14g) ground chicken bone or 1/2 tsp eggshell powder
• 1/2 tsp fish oil
• 1/4 tsp taurine powder

Instructions:

1. Cut chicken and liver into small pieces.
2. Lightly cook in a skillet with a splash of water until internal temp reaches 160°F.
3. Cool slightly, then mix in bone (or calcium), fish oil, and taurine.
4. Portion and store.

Recipe 2: Turkey & Beef Medley

• 3 oz (85g) ground turkey
• 1 oz (28g) lean ground beef
• 0.3 oz (8g) beef liver
• 0.3 oz (8g) beef kidney (optional)
• 1/4 tsp eggshell powder
• 1/4 tsp taurine
• 1/4 tsp fish oil

Instructions:

1. Combine meats and organs.
2. Cook in a pan until fully done (160°F internal temp).
3. Add supplements after cooking.
4. Cool, portion, and freeze.

Feeding Tips and Best Practices

• Transition slowly: Mix a small amount of cooked raw food with your cat’s current food. Gradually increase over 7–10 days.
• Watch for reactions: Some cats may have loose stools at first. This usually improves as their gut adjusts.
• Rotate proteins: Offer different meats weekly to prevent allergies and ensure balanced nutrition.
• Hydration matters: Add a spoonful of broth or water to meals to boost fluid intake.
• Clean bowls daily: Wash food and water bowls with hot, soapy water to prevent bacteria buildup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

My cat won’t eat the cooked raw food.

Try warming it slightly (not hot) or adding a sprinkle of freeze-dried liver powder. Some cats prefer food at body temperature.

The food smells strong.

That’s normal! Raw and lightly cooked meat has a stronger odor than kibble. Store properly and wash bowls after each meal.

My cat has diarrhea.

This could be due to a sudden diet change, too much fat, or an imbalance. Go back to basics—simpler recipe, smaller portions—and consult your vet if it continues.

I’m worried about bacteria.

Light cooking reduces risk significantly. Always use fresh ingredients, clean surfaces, and freeze meat for 72 hours before cooking if it’s wild-caught or game.

Can I feed raw and cooked food together?

Yes, but not at the same meal. Mixing raw and cooked can cause digestive upset. Feed them separately.

When to Consult Your Veterinarian

Raw feeding isn’t for every cat. Talk to your vet before starting if your cat has:

• Kidney disease
• Pancreatitis
• Weakened immune system
• Cancer or is undergoing treatment
• Food allergies or sensitivities

Your vet can help you tailor a diet that meets your cat’s specific needs. They may also recommend blood tests to monitor nutrient levels.

Conclusion

Learning how to cook raw food for cats is a rewarding way to take control of your pet’s nutrition. By combining the benefits of raw feeding with the safety of light cooking, you can offer meals that are both delicious and nutritious.

Remember: balance, hygiene, and gradual transitions are key. Start with simple recipes, observe your cat’s response, and adjust as needed. With patience and care, you’ll be serving up healthy, homemade meals your cat will love.

Always prioritize quality ingredients and consult your vet when in doubt. Your cat’s health is worth the effort—and the extra love you put into every meal.