Cost to Feed

Cost to Feed Steve's Real Food

People with cats or small- and medium-sized dogs find Steve’s Real Food very affordable. Many have reported that saving with Steve’s Real Food because they don’t have to pay for veterinary bills for issues such as annual teeth cleanings. However, Steve’s is also fed to Mastiffs, and they eat a lot of food! No matter your dog or cat’s size, Steve’s Real Food can be a healthy, affordable part of their diet.

How to Calculate How Much It Costs to Feed Steve's Real Food?

We recommend using our handy feeding calculator. This tool will help you determine the appropriate amount of food needed based on your pet’s size, activity level, and dietary requirements. Once you know how much food you need, you can reference our pricing page to calculate the final cost of feeding your beloved companion. With our feeding calculator and pricing information, you can ensure that your pet enjoys the benefits of Steve’s Real Food while keeping track of your budget.

Why Raw Costs More than Kibble

While raw dog food may seem costlier upfront, it is essential to viewing it as an investment in your dog or cat’s long-term health and well-being. The commitment to quality ingredients, nutrient preservation, and the numerous health benefits can result in significant savings over time. Fewer vet visits, reduced dental cleanings, and less reliance on medications and supplements all contribute to lower healthcare costs. Raw dog food is more than just a dietary choice; it’s a strategy that can lead to a healthier, happier, and more budget-friendly life for both you and your four-legged friend.

Quality Ingredients

It comes down to quality. The majority of kibble formulas are grain-based, some as much as 90%. Grains like corn and wheat are used in pet food not because they’re great for pet health, but because they’re cheap. Dogs and cats are not designed for their diet to contain a large portion of grains. They fulfill no dietary requirements, and they cause internal irritation, leading to many of the chronic diseases running rampant in our pets today. As hunters, dogs and cats are biologically designed to eat mostly meat, along with some vegetables and fruits that come from the stomachs of their prey. Their natural diet is rich in moisture and protein, not carbs, and that is what their bodies need to be healthy

Steve’s Real Food uses high-quality, human-grade ingredients. Every ingredient we use comes with a letter of guarantee from the supplier that it was grown and sold for the human market. Steve’s is priced very competitively with premium canned dog and cat foods. Pound per pound, Steve’s Real Food contains about 40% more biologically available calories than the typical premium canned dog or cat foods. Raw dog food undergoes minimal processing, which helps retain natural nutrients in the ingredients. These intact nutrients can contribute to your dog’s well-being and reduce the need for additional supplements or medications. Over time, this can translate to reduced veterinary costs. Many pet owners report fewer skin issues, allergies, and digestive problems in dogs fed a raw diet.

Dental Health

Unlike kibble, which contains large amounts of starches that break down into sugar when eaten, sticking to teeth and potentially causing dental issues, Steve’s Raw Pet Food is crafted with meat, organ meats, and fresh produce. These natural ingredients do not have the same negative effect on dental health. In fact, the act of chewing on raw bones and meat can help naturally clean your dog’s teeth and gums, contributing to dental health, and reducing the need for costly dental cleanings which can cost $500+ in the year 2023.

Improved Digestion

Many dogs suffer from food intolerances or sensitivities, which often require expensive hypoallergenic diets and medications. Kibble can contribute to food intolerances and sensitivities in dogs and cats due to its limited ingredient variety, highly processed components, potential allergenic additives, and inclusion of common allergens like grains. Over time, repeated exposure to these factors can lead to the development of sensitivities or intolerances in some pets. Raw feeding can alleviate these issues, eliminating the need for costly specialized foods and medications.

Reduced Supplement Costs

Because raw-fed dogs and cats are getting more and better nutrition from their food, they don’t require as many supplements to fill nutritional gaps. Dogs fed a balanced raw diet may be less prone to conditions that require medication, such as diabetes, joint problems, or skin issues.

Better Weight Management

Kibble can contribute to pet obesity as it often contains high levels of starches and carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain when consumed excessively. On the other hand, raw pet food primarily consists of meat, organ meats, and fresh produce, which are nutrient-dense and less likely to contribute to excess weight. Transitioning to a raw diet help pets maintain a healthier weight by promoting a more biologically appropriate and balanced diet. By preventing obesity, you can add years to your pet’s life, and avoid costly treatments for obesity-related health issues like diabetes and joint problems.

Tips for Raw Feeding on a Budget

Raw dog food is an investment in your pet’s health and well-being, but it’s no secret that it can be pricier than traditional kibble. In this article, we’ve discussed why raw dog food is worth the cost in terms of long-term savings on vet bills, dental cleanings, and medications. However, there are ways to make raw feeding more budget-friendly, and we’ll explore some of them below.

Choose an Affordable Raw Pet Food Brand such as Steve’s Real Food

Selecting an affordable raw dog food brand is a practical way to save money while still providing the benefits of raw feeding. Steve’s Real Food, for instance, offers high-quality raw dog food at a reasonable price.

Use Raw as a Meal Topper

If feeding a fully raw diet doesn’t fit your budget, you can still benefit from quality fresh nutrition in your pet’s food. You can mix the raw food with premium kibble or canned food, feed raw every other meal, or even use it as a meal topper. Replacing just 20% of your pet’s diet with quality raw food like Steve’s Real Food can improve skin and coat and offer joint support, among other health benefits.

Buy a commercial Raw Pet Food in Bulk

Consider purchasing raw dog food in bulk to take advantage of cost savings. Many brands offer discounts when you buy larger quantities, and freezing portions can help extend the shelf life of these products. Steve’s Real Food offers 20lb boxes of food for large dogs or multi-species homes.

Choose More Affordable Proteins

To save money on raw pet food, pet owners can opt for more budget-friendly protein sources like chicken, beef, or pork. These common proteins are generally more accessible and cost-effective, making them a sensible choice for those on a budget. In contrast, proteins such as fish or exotic options like emu tend to come with a premium price tag due to their limited availability and specialized sourcing.

Look for Discounts and Loyalty Programs

Look for brands that offer discounts and subscription services. Subscriptions can help you save on recurring expenses, and you may find special deals and save 10% on subscription orders when shopping online at RawPetFood.com. For local customers, Steve’s Real Food offers a frequent buyer program that is buying 12 products, to get one free. Take advantage of these programs to save on your pet’s raw pet food costs.

Can I Save Money with DIY Raw?

You may be able to save money making your own raw dog food compared to commercial options. However, it’s essential to understand that preparing balanced raw pet food goes beyond merely offering your dog a chicken leg. Achieving the correct ratios of muscle meat, organ meat, bone, vitamins, and minerals is crucial to avoid nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, the process demands a significant investment of time, effort, and freezer space, so careful planning and education are essential to ensure your pet’s health and well-being.

Cost to Feed Steve's Real Food

How to Calculate How Much It Costs to Feed Steve's Real Food?

Why Raw Costs More than Kibble

Tips for Raw Feeding on a Budget

Can I Save Money with DIY Raw?

Product

Quick Links

Download Our App