If your dog or cat is turning their nose up at the bowl, don't panic. They aren't necessarily "not liking it" — they just don't recognize it as food yet!
1. Add Some Warmth
- Many pets are "scent-driven" — raw meat doesn't smell as strong as cooked meat or kibble
- The Fix: Place the mince in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in a bowl of warm water until the food is warm to the touch
- This releases the aromas they recognize and find appetizing
- Gradually warm it less and less over time until they accept it raw
2. The "Flavor Bridge" (Toppers)
Use high-value lures to bridge the gap between the old food and the new.
- For Dogs: Add a splash of warm bone broth, a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin, or some green tripe to lure them to try the new food
- For Cats: Sprinkle a little "kibble dust" (crushed-up old treats or kibble) over the raw meat — cats are notoriously texture-focused, and the familiar crunch can trick them into taking that first bite
3. Temperature Check
- Nature isn't served at 4°C — some pets find cold meat from the fridge unappealing or even painful on their teeth
- The Fix: Take the portion out of the fridge 15–20 minutes before feeding to take the chill off
- Alternatively, place the sealed bag in a bowl of warm water
- Important: Do not microwave
4. The "Tough Love" Method (For Dogs)
- Healthy dogs will not starve themselves
- The Fix: Put the bowl down for 15 minutes — if they don't eat, pick it up and refrigerate it
- Offer it again at the next mealtime
- This builds "food drive" and teaches them that what is in the bowl is what is for dinner
5. Texture Transitions
- Some pets are put off by the slipperiness of raw meat
- The Fix: Try feeding the meat partially frozen — the firmer, "popsicle" texture is often more appealing to beginners
- This also provides a great chew for dental health
6. Smear the Food
- For Cats: Take the raw food and smear it on their front paw
- When they lick their paw, they'll taste the new food and experience its texture, taste, smell, and temperature all at once
- Next time they see the same food in their bowl, they'll recognize it and eat it.
