At Back To The Bone, we believe feeding your pets shouldn't be a guessing game — it should reflect what nature intended. While cats and dogs may live under the same roof, their nutritional needs are far from identical. Understanding these differences can help your furry friends thrive.
The most important distinction between cats and dogs comes down to their classification on the dietary spectrum.
Cats are obligate carnivores.
This means they must eat meat to survive. Their bodies are specifically designed to digest and utilize nutrients from animal protein. They need nutrients like taurine, vitamin A, and arachidonic acid — all found in animal tissue and not in plants. Cats also have a limited ability to digest carbohydrates.
Dogs are facultative carnivores.
While dogs thrive on animal protein, their digestive systems have evolved to tolerate a broader diet — including some plant matter. This doesn’t mean a bag of kibble full of rice and peas is ideal, but it does mean dogs can handle more variety than cats.
Cats need more protein than dogs — plain and simple. Protein isn’t just a dietary component; it’s their primary energy source. That’s why meat-based diets are so critical for feline health.
Dogs also need high-quality protein (especially from animal sources), but they can derive energy from fats and, to a limited extent, carbohydrates. At Back To The Bone, we focus on biologically appropriate raw diets for both species, but we adjust protein and fat levels to suit their unique requirements.
Many pet parents think cats are just stubborn eaters — but there’s more to it.
Cats rely heavily on smell and texture when it comes to food. In the wild, they’d eat fresh, warm prey. Processed food with synthetic smells or hard textures can be off-putting, especially if that’s not what they imprinted on early in life. Transitioning cats to raw often takes time and patience — but the health benefits are well worth it.
Dogs, on the other hand? Let’s be honest — they’ll eat anything from a raw turkey leg to a forgotten sandwich on the sidewalk. Their less discerning nature makes dietary transitions a little smoother.
Your pet’s gut microbiome — the community of bacteria in their digestive tract — plays a crucial role in digestion, immunity, inflammation, and even behavior.
There are some key differences between cats and dogs when it comes to the gut:
Cats have a more sensitive microbiome. Sudden dietary changes can cause digestive upset and immune stress. That’s why gradual transitions and gut-supportive foods (like raw) are so important.
Dogs have a more adaptable gut biome. Their scavenger ancestors likely ate a variety of foods, which made their digestive systems more flexible. Still, that doesn’t mean they should eat just anything — balanced, fresh foods are still essential.
At Back To The Bone, we carry species-specific probiotics and supplements that support gut health, making sure your pet’s digestion stays happy and functional — no matter their species.
| Nutritional Feature | Cats (Obligate Carnivores) | Dogs (Facultative Carnivores) |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Requirement | Very high | High |
| Carbohydrate Tolerance | Very low | Moderate |
| Key Nutrients Needed | Taurine, Vitamin A, Arachidonic Acid | Can synthesize some nutrients |
| Gut Microbiome | Sensitive and less adaptable | More resilient and flexible |
| Feeding Style | Texture- and smell-sensitive | Less picky, more opportunistic |
Feeding cats and dogs the same food may seem convenient — but it's not ideal for their health. Each species has evolved with specific nutritional needs, and feeding them in alignment with their biology supports:
Better digestion
Stronger immune systems
Healthier coats and skin
Improved energy and vitality
Longer, happier lives
Nature knows best — and we’re here to help you follow it.
The Proof is in the Poop!