Freeze dried cat food is a great way to transition your cat into a raw diet without having to make the commitment of switching over entirely. It comes in many different forms, from complete & balanced freeze-dried meals to toppers that can be sprinkled over wet food or kibble.
Does Freeze-Dried Cat Food Have Bacteria from Fresh Meat?
The freeze-drying process removes all of the moisture from the raw ingredients, allowing them to be shelf-stable. This process also destroys bacteria and parasites that may be present in raw foods. While the freeze-drying process can be a risky one, some brands take additional precautions to minimize microbial contamination in their products. These processes often include high-pressure processing to completely kill bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, without impacting the nutritional value of the product.
Can I Feed My Cat Freeze Dried Cat Food?
While freeze-dried foods may not be as healthy for your cat as raw foods, they are a great option if you want to introduce a more natural diet. They offer a more meaty, less grainy and more nutrient-rich diet than traditional dry kibble. They are also lower in soluble carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain and digestive issues, and higher in taurine, a key protein building block.
Is Freeze Dried Cat Food Safe?
While the freeze dried cat food and drying process can help to reduce the bacterial and parasitic load in raw cat food, it does not eliminate all pathogens. Some microbial pathogens are able to survive freezing and drying, so it is important to choose a brand that tests their products for these contaminates and offers results on their website.
Can I Use Freeze-Dried Cat Food as a Treat or Meal Replacement?
Using freeze-dried cat food as a treat is a good way to see if your cat will accept it as a new food source. Rather than just offering it on its own, try to incorporate it into your cat’s existing meal by adding a little to their water or rehydrating it with a pet-safe broth.
Are Freeze-Dried Cat Foods Easy to Rehydrate?
Rehydrating freeze-dried foods can be a challenge, especially when using raw goat or cow milk to do so. If you are unsure of the type of rehydrating liquid you should be using, consult your veterinarian. It is best to rehydrate the freeze-dried food within half an hour and refrigerate it for at least two days after that, as this will help to keep bacteria from growing on the food.
Are Freeze-Dried Foods Suitable for Picky Eaters?
If your cat is picky or rarely shows an appetite, introducing freeze-dried foods can be a great way to increase their variety of options. These are also a great alternative to wet and dry kibble, as freeze-dried foods can be more easily sucked down by your cat, and are generally easier for them to digest.
Is Freeze Dried Food Better than Regular Kibble?
Freeze-dried foods are typically a little more expensive than normal dry kibble. This is due to the higher quality of the ingredients used and the extra processing involved in making freeze-dried foods. However, this price tag is a small investment when compared to the health benefits you can expect from a quality freeze-dried cat food.
