Raw feeding (BARF) in dogs and cats: risks and evidence

What is BARF?

BARF stands for Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food. The diet typically consists of raw muscle meat, organs, bones, optionally vegetables and sometimes dairy or eggs. Proponents state that it aligns with the evolutionary diet of dogs and cats. However, the scientific evidence for concrete health benefits is limited [2].

Microbiological risks

Raw pet food samples regularly contain pathogenic bacteria. Studies find Salmonella in 7–21% of tested samples; Listeria monocytogenes was found in up to 54% of investigated Dutch products — percentages that are significantly higher than in heat-processed feed [1][2].

Particularly concerning is the finding of extended-spectrum cephalosporin-resistant E. coli in approximately 80% of Dutch raw feed samples [1]. This type of antibiotic resistance is a recognised public health problem.

Dogs and cats fed raw feed can excrete Salmonella asymptomatically in their faeces. The infection risk for household members is therefore real, particularly for children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system [1][3].

Freezing reduces the parasite risk (e.g. Toxoplasma, Toxocara) at a temperature of −20 °C for at least 72 hours, but does not eliminate bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria [2].

The AVMA actively discourages feeding non-heat-processed animal protein sources due to the pathogen risk for both the animal and the owner [3].

Nutritional imbalances

Both homemade and commercial BARF diets regularly show nutritional deficiencies in research [2]:

• Calcium/phosphorus ratio — incorrect balance leads to bone mineralisation problems in young animals
• Vitamin D, zinc and magnesium — deficiencies have been repeatedly reported
• Hypervitaminosis A — excessive liver use can lead to chronic vitamin A poisoning
• Growth disorders — abnormal bone mineralisation and joint complaints have been described in puppies and kittens on a long-term BARF diet

Formulating a diet that meets FEDIAF or AAFCO standards for all life stages is difficult to guarantee without specialised nutritional guidance.

Bone obstructions

Raw bones are responsible for 30–80% of oesophageal and gastric obstructions in dogs and cats [1]. This is an independent surgical risk factor, separate from infection risk. Even so-called 'soft' raw bones can cause splinters or become lodged in the gastrointestinal tract.

Risk groups

Consideration

'Natural' does not automatically mean 'safe'. The documented risks of raw feed — bacterial contamination, nutritional imbalances and bone obstructions — are measurable and real [1][2][3]. Anyone who nevertheless chooses raw feed is advised to discuss this with a vet specialising in nutrition and to apply strict hygiene protocols during preparation and serving.