Home

With rare exceptions, Natural Rearers, follow as closely as possible a prey model type diet that is species appropriate, that is, raw meaty bones. This type of diet is the healthiest, most natural way to feed your pets. As Tom Lonsdale emphasizes “Prevention is better than cure”. Natural Rearers, who practice all natural feeding and treatment of health issues, are strong believers in preventing the need for medical assistance of any kind, and feeding a species appropriate diet is the first and biggest step in achieving health and longevity.

A species appropriate diet should consist of a variety of raw meaty bones. Chicken, fish, rabbit, pork, beef, lamb, goat, or similar meats should form the bulk of the diet, with organ meats introduced two to three times a week. Never rely on a single type of meat as the staple of the diet – variety is key. As Lonsdale appropriately points out: “Any nutrients fed to excess can be harmful”.

Besides better overall health to the animal there are many additional benefits to feeding a species appropriate diet:

Teeth and gums are cleaned naturally. The enzymes in raw meat and the physical action of chewing and gnawing raw meaty bones, naturally cleans the teeth, making dental cleanings unnecessary.

Feces biodegrade naturally. The process begins almost immediately and takes little time. Feces are less bulky since the animal is utilizing a greater portion of the diet therefore producing a smaller volume of waste.

Animals are given the opportunity to spend time doing what they otherwise do in nature. That is spend time chewing and gnawing on bones. This strengthens jaw muscles, cleans teeth, keeps gums healthy and provides the animal with necessary behavioral stimuli.

Feeding a Species Appropriate Diet