Myth or Truth: Raw-Fed Dogs & Cats Produce Smaller, Firmer Stools?

Truth — many dogs and cats fed fresh, raw diets do produce smaller stools.

One of the first things many pet owners notice after switching to a fresh food diet is a change in their pet’s poop. Stools are often smaller, firmer and less frequent compared to those produced on some highly processed diets.

But why does this happen?

Why Are Stools Often Smaller on a Fresh Food Diet?

Fresh food diets are typically made with minimally processed ingredients such as meat, organs and other whole foods.

Because there may be less indigestible material compared to some highly processed diets, many dogs and cats produce less waste overall. As a result, stools are often smaller and more compact.

Why Are Stools Often Firmer Too?

Many pet owners also report that stools become firmer and more compact after transitioning to a fresh food diet.

This may be due to the different composition of fresh foods compared to highly processed diets. However, stool consistency can vary depending on factors such as hydration, fibre intake, bone content, individual digestion and the overall balance of the diet.

A healthy stool should be firm enough to pick up easily, but not excessively hard, dry or crumbly.

What About Cats?

The same observation is often reported by cat owners.

Cats fed moisture-rich fresh food diets frequently produce smaller, firmer stools compared to those fed dry food alone. Because cats naturally have a low thirst drive, moisture-rich fresh foods can also contribute to daily water intake and support overall hydration.

As with dogs, every cat is different, and stool quality can vary depending on the individual animal and the diet being fed.

Smaller Stools Don’t Always Mean Better

While smaller stools are commonly associated with fresh food diets, stool size alone should not be used as a measure of whether a diet is healthy or appropriate.

What matters most is that your pet is receiving a balanced diet that supports their overall health, energy levels, body condition and digestive wellbeing.

The Verdict

Truth: Many dogs and cats fed fresh, raw diets produce smaller stools.

This is often because more of the food is utilised by the body and less is excreted as waste. However, stool size and consistency can vary depending on the individual pet and the overall diet being fed.