Can Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food Go Bad?

 

Yes, freeze-dried raw cat food can go bad if not stored or handled properly, but it’s designed to last longer than other types of cat foods, such as wet food or regular cat food when stored correctly. This amazing product combines the benefits of a raw diet with the convenience of shelf stability, making it a favourite for cat owners who want to provide a balanced meal filled with raw food nutrition and fresh foods for their pets.

 

Why Can Freeze-Dried Raw Food Spoil?

Moisture Exposure

Moisture is the enemy of freeze-dried raw food. If exposed to water or stored in a humid environment, it can rehydrate prematurely, leading to mould or bacterial growth.

Poor Storage

Failing to seal or store freeze-dried cat food properly can compromise the freshness of its premium meat, raw animal protein, and minerals from bone.

Shelf-Life Expiration

Even though freeze-dried food has an extended shelf life, it’s not indefinite. Consuming food past its expiration date can compromise the raw protein quality and nutrient content.

How to Store Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food Safely

• Airtight Storage: Use airtight containers to protect food from air and moisture, preserving the rich proteins and fatty acids that promote strong muscles, shiny coats, and healthy joints.
• Cool, Dry Locations: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight or heat, as these can degrade the food’s fresh meat content.
• Check for Spoilage: Before serving, inspect the food for unusual smells, discolouration, or a sticky texture, all signs it may have gone bad.

Serving Tips for Freeze-Dried Raw Food

1. Rehydrate for Better Nutrition: Add water, goat milk, or beef bone broth to rehydrate the food for better texture and taste. This also enhances hydration and flavour for picky eaters.

2. Serve Fresh: Once rehydrated, serve immediately and discard any leftovers to prevent spoilage.

3. Add Variety: Use the food as a food topper to complement other dry cat food or to enhance meals for cats with food sensitivities.

Cat Food Recipe

While freeze-dried food is a complete and balanced diet, adding fresh meat, and safe ingredients can provide variety and a boost of flavour.

Homemade Recipe Ideas

Bone Broth Boost

• Ingredients: Beef bone broth, powdered turkey bone broth, or chicken bone broth.

• How to: Warm the broth slightly and pour it over your cat’s freeze-dried raw food to rehydrate and infuse flavour.

• Benefits: Adds hydration, nutrients, and promotes healthy joints.

Protein-Packed Mix

• Ingredients: Shredded cooked chicken (unseasoned), coconut oil, and a small amount of pumpkin puree.

• How to: Mix a teaspoon of coconut oil, the shredded cooked chicken and a tablespoon of pumpkin into the rehydrated freeze-dried food.

• Benefits: Supports digestion, shiny coats, and provides additional animal protein.

Fish Feast

• Ingredients: Flaked cooked fishlike salmon or mackerel (skinless, deboned).

• How to: Sprinkle a small amount of fish on top of the freeze-dried food.

• Benefits: Adds omega-3 fatty acids for brain health and energetic playtimes.

Veggie Add-In

• Ingredients: Finely chopped or steamed carrots and peas.

• How to: Blend a small portion into the freeze-dried food for added nutrients. You can either feed the food dry or add some more water to create gravy. 

• Benefits: Provides fibre and vitamins without overwhelming the raw diet.

Pro Tip:

Use homemade additions sparingly to avoid disrupting the balanced meal provided by the freeze-dried raw food. Always consult with your vet before introducing new ingredients to ensure they’re safe and suitable for your cat. Consider cat food toppers if convenient.

 

Freeze-Dried Raw Food and Cleaner Teeth

One of the lesser-known benefits of freeze-dried raw cat food is its ability to support cleaner teeth. The texture of freeze-dried food helps scrape off plaque and tartar naturally, promoting better oral health. 

How Freeze-Dried Raw Food Promotes Cleaner Teeth

• Crunchy Texture: While softer than traditional dry cat food, freeze-dried food’s texture provides a gentle abrasive effect that reduces plaque buildup. 

• Natural Ingredients: With raw protein and no fillers, freeze-dried food doesn’t leave residue on teeth like carb-heavy dry food does. 

• Rehydrated Options: Rehydrating freeze-dried food with water or bone broths ensures a softer texture for older cats or those with dental issues while still providing nutrition. 

Tips for Optimal Dental Health:

1. Combine freeze-dried food with occasional crunchy treats like Frontier Pets Chicken Necks that promote chewing. 
2. Use food toppers like beef bone broth or premium duck meat for added flavour without compromising oral hygiene. You can also add more variety by adding Frontier Pets Boosters. 
3. Pair meals with regular dental checkups and teeth-cleaning treats. 

Pro Tip: Look for foods made with high-quality, minimally processed food ingredients to reduce the risk of tooth decay and promote long-term oral health. 

By combining the natural benefits of freeze-dried raw food with these homemade recipes and dental care tips, you can ensure your cat enjoys delicious meals, cleaner teeth, and optimal overall health. 

Why Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food is a Game-Changer

1. Nutritional Powerhouse: Freeze-dried food retains the nutrients of a raw food diet, including muscle-building protein, raw animal protein, and minerals from bone, making it an excellent choice for supporting energetic playtimes and healthy joints. 
2. Convenience: Lightweight, shelf-stable, and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy pet parents. 
3. Versatility: Serve it as a complete meal, topper, or treat for added variety and nutrition. 
4. Allergy-Friendly: Great for cats with food allergies or sensitivities, as it often includes single-protein options like premium duck meat, lamb bone, or rabbit diet.

Pro Tips for Cat Owners

• Use smaller bags for one-time purchases to ensure freshness. 

• Add variety with coconut oil, fish toppers, or bone broths for extra flavour and nutrients. 

• Always check the packaging to ensure you're feeding your pet a balanced diet of high-quality raw food. 

By following these tips, you’ll keep your cat’s freeze-dried raw food fresh, delicious, and packed with nutrients, ensuring a happy, healthy life for your cat.