Why We Feed Raw: A Guide to Healthier Happier Ragdolls
Here at Ragalicious Ragdoll's we believe the foundation of a kitten's health starts with what's in their bowl. That's why all our kittens are raised on 100% raw diet. This approach mimics what an obligate carnivore would naturally eat in the wild. We are passionate about giving our cats the best chance to grow strong,
With years of experience, I have seen firsthand how raw diet transform's a kitten's health. Every kitten we raise is introduced to raw at 4 weeks ensuring they start life with optimal nutrition. I'm here to share everything I've learned so you can continue providing your kitten with the best care.
Breaking Down Pet Food Labels
What to Avoid:
- Fillers like corn, wheat, soy eleborate
- Artifical colors, flavors and preservatives (e.g., BHA, BHT, ethoxyquin.)
- By-products vs. Whole prey ingredients
What to look for:
- Named animal proteins as primary ingredients.
- Minimal carbohydrates (best if not fed at all!)
- Transparency sourcing. Many brands use vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal by-products,” which can hide low-quality or mystery ingredients, while buzzwords like “natural” or “premium” often lack regulatory meaning. By supporting brands that offer full transparency in their ingredient lists, sourcing, and manufacturing practices, pet owners can ensure higher-quality nutrition for their pets while advocating for better industry standards.
Homemade Raw Diet
Transitioning to a raw diet can feel like a big step, but the rewards are truly remarkable. Think of it just like preparing healthy meals for yourself—you’re giving your cat the very best nutrition possible. If a recipe isn't your thing try a premade!
How to Source Ingredients
Sourcing Quality Meat and Organs for Your Cat’s Raw Diet
Sourcing Quality Meat and Organs for Your Cat’s Raw Diet
Sourcing Quality Meat and Organs for Your Cat’s Raw Diet
Finding fresh, high-quality meat and organs for your cat’s raw diet can be easier than you think! Start by exploring your local Asian markets, which often carry fresh, affordable organs like liver, kidney, and heart.
Local butchers are another excellent resource—many offer fresh cuts and can even order specific organs upon request. For larger quantities, stores like Sam’s Club are a great option, as they offer regulated, high-quality meats at bulk prices.
If sourcing raw organs locally isn’t feasible, consider Feeding Miami, which offers pre-made organ blends that are cost-effective and convenient. These blends ensure your cat gets the nutrients they need without requiring you to buy large amounts of organs. A little goes a long way—just a small portion of organs is needed to balance a single cat’s raw diet!
Sourcing and Preparing Bones for Your Cat’s Raw Diet
Sourcing Quality Meat and Organs for Your Cat’s Raw Diet
Sourcing Quality Meat and Organs for Your Cat’s Raw Diet
If you’re preparing raw food for your cat and need to source bones, don’t worry—it’s easier than you might think! Many local butchers are happy to grind a few pounds of bone for you, making it easier to incorporate into your cat’s meals. While chicken thighs are a popular choice for bones, chicken wings are also a great option and are easy to chop using a meat cleaver or knife.
For households with one or two cats, investing in a meat grinder isn’t necessary, as grinding small amounts by hand or with the help of your butcher can be quick and convenient. With just a little planning, you’ll find that preparing bones for your cat’s raw diet can be done without much time or effort.
If you want to use bone meal or eggshells to replace bone your new recipe is as follows:
6.7lbs ground grassfed/organic meat
6oz liver
6oz kidney or liver
3oz heart
10 tbsp finely ground eggshell or 7 tbsp bone meal powder
1 tsp adored beast probiotic or nuvet supplement
2.5 tbsp salmon oil
Storage and Prep Tips
Batch Prep & Packaging Tips (15+ lbs)
1. Gather Equipment: Use large bowls, a heavy-duty grinder or cleaver, food storage containers (or freezer ziploc baggies) and latex gloves.
2. Handle Meat Safely: Keep poultry, bones, and organs refrigerated or on ice until mixing.
3. Check Quality: Look for bright color, no off-smells, minimal slime.
4. Portioning: Pre-weigh servings (e.g., daily or weekly portions) into resealable freezer bags or plastic containers with airtight lids.
5. Label & Freeze: Date all packages and freeze quickly to maintain freshness.
6. Thaw Safely: Defrost in fridge or under cold water. Never on the counter or microwave.
That’s it—keep clean, organized, and consistent for the best results.
Transition Cats to Raw Gradually
Step 1: Check Allergies
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
Step 2: Begin Plain Ground Meat
• Allergy Test: Start by getting your kitty tested for common protein allergies.
• Temporary Elimination: If they’re allergic to certain meats (e.g., chicken), leave those out initially. You can often reintroduce them once any flare-up subsides.
Step 2: Begin Plain Ground Meat
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
Step 2: Begin Plain Ground Meat
• Choose High-Quality Proteins: Opt for grass-fed or organic ground turkey, lamb, or beef.
• Stick to One Protein: Feed only that ground meat (raw) for about a week and watch for immediate improvements in coat, digestion, or energy levels.
Step 3: Step 3: Build Full Recipes
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
• Week Two: Transition from plain ground meat to balanced, homemade raw recipes (including organs, bone/eggshell, supplements).
• Rotate Proteins: Vary the menu by assigning different meats to different days (e.g., Monday: turkey, Tuesday: chicken, Wednesday: beef). This keeps the cat interested and covers nutritional needs.
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
Step 4: Remove Kibble & Commercial Food
• Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Cats have a keen sense of smell, and if kibble is around, they’ll crave it. Get rid of all non-raw foods to help the transition.
• Health Check: Ensure your kitty is generally healthy before fully switching to a raw diet. Some cats can be more stubborn—start with their favorite protein, then branch out.
Tip: Ta
• Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Cats have a keen sense of smell, and if kibble is around, they’ll crave it. Get rid of all non-raw foods to help the transition.
• Health Check: Ensure your kitty is generally healthy before fully switching to a raw diet. Some cats can be more stubborn—start with their favorite protein, then branch out.
Tip: Take it slowly, monitor your cat’s response, and consult a Raw feeding vet if you have concerns. You may also re5ach out to me!
Contact Us
Find out if you're worthy of a Ragalicious Ragdoll!
Jordan: (925) 597-7394 ragaliciousragdolls@gmail.com
Located in Sacramento, Ca
Did you know I raise British Shorthairs as well?
