🍖 The Benefits of Raw Dog & Cat Food: A Guide for Etobicoke Pet Parents

If you’ve been hearing more about raw feeding, you’re not alone. More pet parents are switching to balanced raw diets to support healthier digestion, improved skin and coat, and better overall wellness for their dogs and cats. 

At Fetch Pet Boutique, we proudly carry some of Canada’s most trusted raw food brands — including Iron Will Raw, K9 Choice, Back2Raw, Raw Performance, Bold by Nature, Healthy Paws, Big Country Raw, Primal Pet Food & Just Raw Dog Food.

This guide breaks down why raw feeding works, the top benefits for pets, and how to choose the right brand for your cat or dog.

Why Consider Raw Food for Your Dog 🐶 or Cat 🐱?

Raw feeding is based on offering pets a more natural, minimally processed diet made from real meat, bones, organs and fresh vegetables. Many pets thrive on this approach because it’s closer to how their digestive systems evolved to eat.

Key features of a balanced raw diet include:

    ●    Fresh, high-quality animal proteins

    ●    Natural sources of essential vitamins & minerals

    ●    Zero fillers, artificial preservatives, or highly processed ingredients

    ●    Bioavailable nutrients pets can easily absorb

    ●    High moisture content (crucial for cats)

Top Benefits of Feeding Raw 🥩

1. Improved Digestion

Raw diets are rich in natural enzymes and moisture, making them easier for many pets to digest. Guardians often notice:

    ●    Smaller, firmer stools

    ●    Reduced gas

    ●    Less bloating

    ●    Better nutrient absorption

Brands like Big Country Raw and Healthy Paws offer simple, clean ingredient lists that support sensitive stomachs.

2. Healthier Skin & Shinier Coat

One of the first changes pet parents often report is a softer coat and reduced shedding. Fresh animal fats, amino acids and omega oils found in brands like Bold by Nature and Raw Performance directly support skin and coat health.

3. Better Weight Management

Raw diets offer:

    ●    High-protein nutrition

    ●    Low-carbohydrate recipes

    ●    No fillers or heavily processed grains

This makes it easier for pets — especially indoor cats and less active dogs — to maintain a healthy weight.

4. Enhanced Dental Health

Chewing raw meaty bones (when appropriate for the pet) can help:

    ●    Reduce plaque and tartar

    ●    Strengthen jaw muscles

    ●    Promote fresher breath

Brands like K9 Choice and Back2Raw offer safe, species-appropriate raw bone options.

5. More Stable Energy Levels

Because raw diets avoid sugar spikes and processed carbs, many pets experience:

    ●    More consistent energy

    ●    Better metabolism

    ●    Improved focus and behaviour

Active dogs can thrive on blends from Just Raw Dog Food and Iron Will Raw.

6. Supports Immune Health

Fresh, unprocessed ingredients provide natural sources of:

    ●    Antioxidants

    ●    Essential fatty acids

    ●    Amino acids

    ●    Digestive enzymes

Many raw-fed pets experience stronger immune systems and fewer recurring health issues.

Raw Brands We Carry at Fetch Pet Boutique (Etobicoke/West End Toronto)

We proudly offer trusted Canadian raw brands that meet high standards for safety, sourcing and balanced nutrition:

    ●    Big Country Raw – Balanced formulas and variety packs.

    ●    Iron Will Raw – Premium proteins and limited-ingredient blends ideal for sensitivities.

    ●    K9 Choice – Ethically raised meats and unique protein options.

    ●    Back2Raw – Small-batch raw with simple, clean recipes.

    ●    Raw Performance – Nutrient-rich blends designed for active dogs.

    ●    Bold by Nature – Convenient patties and bulk boxes for multi-pet homes.

    ●    Healthy Paws – Holistic blends with fresh vegetables and botanicals.

    ●    Just Raw Dog Food – Locally crafted raw meals with quality meats.

If you're unsure which brand is right for your pet, our team can provide you with information about each of the brands. Visit us in store to discuss!

Is Raw Food Safe? What Pet Parents Should Know

When handled correctly, raw feeding is safe and healthy. Here are simple tips:

    ●    Keep raw food frozen until use.

    ●    Thaw in the fridge, never on the counter.

    ●    Use clean bowls and utensils.

    ●    Wash hands and surfaces thoroughly.

    ●    Store leftovers in airtight containers.

Every brand we carry follows strict manufacturing standards to ensure safe handling and balanced nutrition.

How to Start Your Dog or Cat on Raw

Transition tips:

    ●    Start slow — replace 25% of their current food with raw for a few days.

    ●    Increase gradually as their digestion adjusts.

    ●    For kibble-to-raw transitions, keep meals separate for better digestion.

    ●    Cats may require a slower, scent-based introduction.

And yes — you can mix brands! Many pet parents alternate between Big Country Raw, Bold by Nature, and Healthy Paws, for example, for variety.

Visit Fetch Pet Boutique for Raw Pet Food

At Fetch Pet Boutique, we believe every pet deserves wholesome, biologically appropriate nutrition. Whether you're brand new to raw feeding or ready to try something different, we're here to help.

• Shop premium raw dog & cat food online on our website

• Visit our Etobicoke store at Rathburn & Kipling for additional information about raw

• Ask us about transitioning safely and choosing proteins