Raw Pet Food FAQs
Answers to common questions about raw feeding.
Wondering whether a raw food diet is right for your dog or cat? You’re not alone. At Wylie Veterinary Centre, we supported hundreds of local pet owners in transitioning to raw feeding with confidence — and saw incredible improvements in pet health.
Whether you’re exploring raw food for the first time or already feeding raw and want to refine your approach, this guide offers reliable, vet-approved answers based on real clinical experience.
Get Personalised Raw Feeding Support
Our team at Wylie Veterinary Centre in Upminster and the Wylie Wellness Centre in Brentwood is here to help you build a nutrition plan tailored to your pet. We offer one-on-one consultations, support for food allergies, and a full range of safe, balanced raw meals through our Wylie Nourished program.
Ready to get started?
How to Feed Raw Safely
At Wylie, we welcome all types of feeders, and we support pet owners to feed raw safely. Find our FAQ below and the hygiene advice on how to handle raw food safely.
Raw Feeding FAQs
1. Does the meat need to be cooked?
No. Raw pet food is meant to be served raw. Cooking can reduce nutritional value. You can thaw and portion it straight from the fridge. For picky pets, lightly searing or flash-frying is acceptable — but avoid fully cooking.
2. Can I feed bones to my pet?
Yes — but only raw bones. Cooked bones can splinter and become dangerous. Feed whole bones only after your pet has been on a raw diet for 3–4 weeks, and choose options suited to their size and experience level. Our Brentwood location stocks a wide variety of safe bones.
3. How should I defrost and store raw food?
Defrost in a fridge, not a microwave. Store raw food on the bottom shelf in a sealed container, and serve within 3–4 days of thawing. Wash hands, utensils, and bowls thoroughly after each use.
4. Can puppies eat raw food?
Yes! Raw feeding is safe for puppies. We offer nurse-led nutrition consultations to guide you through your puppy’s transition and provide a free bag of starter food.
5. Is feeding raw food dangerous?
No. Reputable raw food brands are rigorously tested for safety and are often held to higher standards than meat for human consumption. Good hygiene is essential.
6. Is raw feeding suitable for every pet?
Most pets thrive on raw food, but certain medical conditions may require a special diet. If your pet has an illness or is on medication, our vets can help determine the best approach.
7. How long does raw food last once thawed?
Use within 3–4 days, and always store in the fridge. Never refreeze thawed food. Clean bowls and surfaces immediately after use.
8. Will my pet get sick from eating raw meat?
No. Dogs and cats have highly acidic stomachs that kill harmful bacteria. Pathogen-tested commercial raw diets, combined with safe handling, make raw feeding safe.
9. Can I mix raw food with kibble?
We don’t recommend it. Kibble and raw food are digested at different rates, which may lead to digestive upset.
10. Can raw food help with allergies?
Yes. Many pets react to fillers and additives in processed food. A pure meat raw diet eliminates those triggers. We also offer novel protein options, such as venison, duck, and goat.
11. Can I visit the Brentwood Wellness Centre to buy food?
You can order online or by phone for Click & Collect. Visit our Order Raw Pet Food page or call 01277 584470 to speak with a team member.
12. What is the microbiome, and why does it matter?
A pet’s microbiome — the community of good bacteria in their gut—impacts everything from immunity to behaviour. A biologically appropriate raw diet helps maintain a healthy microbiome, supporting long-term well-being.