Raw Feeding & Breeding
Keep It Raw
We’re often asked if you can continue with a raw diet throughout the various stages of breeding (mating, pregnancy, lactating & weaning). If the diet is well-planned and species-appropriate, the answer is YES! Feeding a well-planned raw diet supports fertility, pregnancy, lactation, and healthy puppy/kitten development. Our aim is to provide high-quality protein, essential fats, and a wide variety of nutrients in whole food form.
Before Breeding
- Ensure your bitch or queen is in good body condition — neither underweight nor overweight.
- A veterinary health check prior to mating is recommended. This is a good time to confirm vaccination status, review parasite control, and discuss any supplements.
- If your pet is new to raw feeding, transition well before pregnancy so the gut has time to adjust and nutrients are optimised.
Changing the Diet
It’s best not to change diet during pregnancy or lactation unless there’s a clear reason (for example, if she refuses food). If changes are needed, involve your vet to ensure any adjustments support mum and babies.
Supplements
A balanced raw diet usually provides excellent nutrition without the need for additional supplements. If your pet is receiving supplements, please review these with your vet prior to breeding or pregnancy, as some may not be appropriate.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy can be divided into three stages:
- Weeks 1–3: Continue feeding her normal, balanced raw diet.
- Weeks 4–6: Gradually increase meal size and frequency.
- Weeks 7–9: Stop feeding whole bones, but continue bone-in mixes which remain
digestible.
Additional notes:
- Fresh water should always be available. Bone broth and a varied raw diet support
hydration and gut health. - Keep an eye on weight and body condition — overly thin or overweight mums are more likely to have complications.
- Smaller, more frequent meals are often better tolerated in the later stages.
Post Whelping / Queening
- First 2 days: Offer small, frequent meals (4+ per day).
- Soft stools may occur as a result of eating afterbirth — this is usually temporary.
- Ensure the puppies or kittens are feeding well before increasing mum’s food further.
- Energy needs increase substantially during lactation, raising daily food requirements by approximately:
~ 3–4 x for small dogs (bitches)
~ 2x for large dogs (bitches)
~ 2–3x for cats (queens)
- Appetite is usually excellent — allow her to eat to her needs while maintaining a healthy body condition.
- Hydration is especially important while producing milk. Ensure water is freely available at all times.
- Once babies start weaning, mum can start having whole bones again (providing digestion is settled).
Puppies & Kittens
Puppies and kittens can start raw food when ready to begin solids — usually around 3–4 weeks of age — often by copying their mother.
They grow best on a wide variety of meats, bones, organs, and tripe in approximate prey proportions.
Their high nutrient needs are best supported through variety and quality protein. Supplements are rarely required if the diet is well-planned, though your vet can guide you if special circumstances arise.
Monitor Closely
Food requirements vary widely between individuals. Monitor mum’s condition closely and adjust food amounts as needed.
Ongoing Support
We encourage you to keep your vet updated throughout pregnancy, whelping or queening and lactation. We are also happy to provide your vet with details of our feeding approach if that would be helpful.
RAW ESSENTIALS | Wildly Good Advice & Nutrition
New Zealand's raw pet food experts
Locally sourced frozen raw pet food
Natural treats and freeze dried pet food
17 pet friendly stores across New Zealand
Nationwide raw pet food delivery
online@rawessentials.co.nz
Copyright Raw Essentials Limited. All rights reserved.