Raw Food Diets

Question 1

What does BARF stand for?

Answer 1

Biologically appropriate raw foods

Question 2

What does PMR stand for and what is it?

Answer 2

Prey model raw - diet based on whole, wild prey animals and does not include plant ingredients

Question 3

What is whole prey?

Answer 3

Whole prey animals including all internal organs, blood and glands with the fur and feathers still attached

Question 4

What are some of the main concerns when feeding raw?

Answer 4

Food poisoning/ parasitic infection (salmonella bacteria, E-coli, clostridia) nutrient deficiencies

Question 5

The nutrient composition and digestibility of raw and cooked meats are the same

Answer 5

True - they are virtually identical, there are no “enzymes” in raw meat that enhance digestion

Question 6

Raw meat diets are high in __________ and ____________ and very low in ____________, _______________, and _____________

Answer 6

Protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals

Question 7

BARF and other raw food diets contain significant imbalances in what minerals?

Answer 7

Calcium, phosphorus (incorrect Ca:Ph ratio), zinc, magnesium and iron

Question 8

What are some potential health problems to pets when feeding raw?

Answer 8

Dermatoses (zinc), anemia (iron), orthopedic conditions (Ca and Vit D), secondary nutritional hyperparathyroidism (insufficient Ca intake), gastrointestinal perforation, intestinal obstructions, gastroenteritis, fractured teeth