Raw Feeding and Parasite Risk: What to Watch Out For

Raw feeding is growing in popularity among dog and cat owners who want a natural, species-appropriate diet for their pets. Supporters of raw food often cite shinier coats, healthier teeth, and better digestion – but raw feeding isn’t without risks, particularly when it comes to parasites and harmful bacteria.

This post explores the parasite risks associated with raw diets, how to reduce them, and when to seek advice from a vet.

Contents

• Why Do Pet Owners Choose Raw Feeding?

• What Parasite Risks Come With Raw Food?

• Types of Parasites and Bacteria Found in Raw Meat

• How to Reduce the Risks

• Is Raw Feeding Safe for All Pets?

Why Do Pet Owners Choose Raw Feeding?

Many owners turn to raw feeding in search of a more ‘natural’ way to nourish their pets. Diets typically include uncooked meat, bones, offal, and sometimes raw vegetables or fruit. Some follow homemade recipes, while others use pre-packaged commercial raw diets.

Reported benefits of raw feeding include:

• Improved coat and skin condition

• Smaller, firmer stools

• Enhanced dental health

• Fewer additives and preservatives

However, it’s important to balance these perceived benefits with the potential health risks – particularly those involving foodborne pathogens and parasites.

What Parasite Risks Come With Raw Food?

Raw meat can harbour a variety of parasites and bacteria that cooking would normally kill. These include:

• Toxoplasma gondii (found in raw pork or lamb)

• Sarcocystis spp.

• Neospora caninum

• Tapeworm cysts (especially Taenia species)

• Bacterial pathogens like Salmonella, Listeria, and E. coli

Pets infected with these organisms may not show symptoms at first, but can shed them in faeces, putting other animals and people at risk – especially children or immunocompromised individuals.

Types of Parasites and Bacteria Found in Raw Meat

• Tapeworms and roundworms: These can be transmitted if pets consume infected organs or undercooked meat, particularly wild game or fish.

• Toxoplasmosis: Caused by Toxoplasma gondii, this parasite can be carried by cats who eat raw or undercooked meat. It is especially risky for pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.

• Salmonella and E. coli: Raw-fed pets may carry these bacteria without appearing ill but still shed them, potentially contaminating your home environment.

It’s also worth noting that pets infected via raw food may need more frequent parasite control.

How to Reduce the Risks

If you choose to feed raw, taking proper precautions can help minimise the dangers:

• Use commercially prepared raw diets that follow strict hygiene and safety standards

• Freeze meat at -20°C for at least 3 days to kill most parasites

• Avoid feeding wild game, raw fish, or unregulated meat sources

• Keep preparation surfaces and utensils meticulously clean

• Store raw food separately and wash hands after every meal prep

• Maintain a strict worming and parasite prevention schedule

• Feed outdoors or in a specific area of the house that can be more easily disinfected

• Do not allow your pets to lick your face or hands, and wash hands after touching your pet

• Take extra care to clear up faeces promptly, and ensuring hands are washed well afterwards

• Keep pets away from immunocompromised individuals such as the elderly, children, or those on chemotherapy.

Regular stool checks with your vet may also be advisable for raw-fed pets.

Is Raw Feeding Safe for All Pets?

Not necessarily. Puppies, kittens, elderly pets, and animals with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to infections. For some, the risks of raw feeding may outweigh the benefits.

If you're considering a raw diet, it’s important to consult a vet to ensure it meets all of your pet’s nutritional needs while minimising health risks.

When to Contact Us

Whether you're thinking about switching to raw, have concerns about parasites, or want help balancing your pet’s diet, we're here to support you. Our team can advise on safe feeding practices, monitor for parasite risk, and provide a tailored treatment plan if needed.

📞 Call us on 020 8459 4729 or book an appointment online to discuss your pet’s diet and wellbeing.

As summer approaches, fleas and ticks become a bigger risk to your dog’s health. Whether you're heading to the park, beach, or just enjoying the garden, now’s the ideal time to ensure your dog is protected. Book now and get 10% off a Summer Wellness check, including a flea and tick check-over.