BBC Morning Live Pet Diet Feature – Raw Feeding
PFMA was pleased to see a feature on pet nutrition this morning on BBC Live, which focused on different feeding options. The decision of what to feed our pets is an important one, and PFMA’s team of experts are on hand to provide quality, balanced information to help with this decision.
As a result of this morning’s feature, we would like to share our guidance on responsible raw feeding.
1. Choose a product from a reputable commercial raw food manufacturer
Ensure your pet food is produced by a registered raw food manufacturer who is professionally making raw pet food meals with the appropriate microbiological controls. Commercially prepared raw foods (like all pet foods) are subject to stringent controls set in legislation. Additionally, PFMA commercial raw members manufacture their diets in line with best practice guidelines. This guideline was developed in conjunction with Defra, FSA, Animal and Plant Health Agency and PHE.
2. Practice good hygiene at home
While it carries no greater risk than handling fresh raw meat intended for humans, pet owners must be dedicated to good hygiene practices in the home and maintain high standards of hygiene to prevent contamination. Careful storage, handling and good hygiene practices when preparing and feeding a raw meat diet are vital. Indeed, this is best practice for handling all pet food products. We encourage owners to take the time to read our best practice tips: Handling Commercial Raw Pet Food Safely Poster | PFMA
3. Think twice about homemade diets
Making a homemade diet providing all the right nutrients in the right proportions is difficult and should not be undertaken without advice from a veterinary nutritionist.
The most important thing for an owner to ensure is that they are providing complete and balanced diet.
4. Considering a change in diet for your pet?
If you are considering a change in diet for your cat or dog, there is a range of reliable sources of advice from your vet to PFMA raw manufacturers and nutritionists. They’ll be able to discuss your pet’s needs, make suitable recommendations and give guidance on how to transition from one food to another.
PFMA Chairman, Greg Van Praagh, comments: “The variety of pet food formats available means there is something to suit all needs and preferences. It is always important that owners do their research when selecting a diet. Ensuring a complete and balanced diet is fundamental and regardless of format all pet foods are subject to the same stringent legislation and microbiological testing to ensure safe and nutritious diets. Safe handling and good hygiene should be observed when handling all types of pet food.”
For more information: Raw Feeding Factsheet | PFMA
