What Is the Best Raw Food for Cats? Top Brands and Feeding Tips for Canadian Cat Owners

As of 2026, raw feeding for cats has moved well beyond a niche trend — it is now one of the fastest-growing segments in premium pet nutrition across Canada. More Canadian cat owners are asking the same question: what is the best raw food for cats in Canada, and how do I feed it safely? Whether you are considering frozen raw, freeze-dried raw, or air-dried options, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, including which verified brands are available at Ashario Pets — a premium pet supply store located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, Ontario, open 9 AM to 11 PM daily, 365 days a year.

For a comprehensive breakdown of what to look for when buying raw cat food in Canada, also read our What Is the Best Raw Food for Cats in Canada? A Complete Buyer's Guide — it covers the key differences between raw food types and how to evaluate ingredient quality.

Why Canadian Cat Owners Are Switching to Raw Cat Food in 2026

Cats are obligate carnivores — their biology requires animal-based protein as the primary source of nutrition. A biologically appropriate diet for cats is high in moisture, rich in animal protein, moderate in fat, and very low in carbohydrates. Many conventional dry cat foods are formulated with significant amounts of plant-based starch as a binding agent, which does not align well with feline digestive physiology.

Raw cat food — whether frozen, freeze-dried, or air-dried — closely mimics what cats would consume in a natural setting. Advocates of raw feeding often point to improvements in coat quality, litter box output, energy levels, and hydration when cats are transitioned to a raw or minimally processed diet. However, it is essential to consult your veterinarian before changing your cat's diet, especially if your cat has existing health conditions.

Explore the full range of raw cat food available at Ashario Pets to see the variety of formats and proteins currently in stock.

Types of Raw Cat Food Available in Canada

Understanding the different formats of raw cat food helps you choose the option that works best for your lifestyle and your cat's preferences. Ashario Pets carries multiple raw and minimally processed formats for cats.

Frozen Raw Cat Food

Frozen raw cat food is the most traditional format and typically offers the highest moisture content. It usually contains ground raw meat, bone, and organ, and must be stored in a freezer and thawed before serving. Brands like Big Country Raw, Instinct Raw, and Red Dog Blue Kat produce frozen raw formulas designed specifically for cats. This format is ideal for cat owners committed to a fully raw diet and who have freezer space available.

Freeze-Dried Raw Cat Food

Freeze-dried raw cat food undergoes a cold-vacuum drying process that removes moisture while preserving nutrients, enzymes, and the raw nutritional profile of the ingredients. It is shelf-stable, lightweight, and extremely convenient. Brands like Stella & Chewy's, Instinct Raw, and Primal are well-known in Canada for their freeze-dried raw cat formulas. Freeze-dried food can be served dry or rehydrated with warm water to increase moisture intake — an important consideration for cats who do not drink enough water on their own.

Air-Dried Raw Cat Food

Air-dried cat food is gently dried at low temperatures over an extended period, concentrating nutrients without the use of high heat. The result is a shelf-stable product with a texture similar to a soft kibble but with a nutritional profile much closer to raw. ZIWI is one of the most recognized air-dried cat food brands in Canada, known for its high meat inclusion and New Zealand-sourced ingredients.

Freeze-Dried Cat Treats

For cat owners not yet ready to commit to a full raw diet, freeze-dried cat treats are a popular entry point. These single-ingredient or minimally processed treats can be used as toppers on dry or wet food, or offered as standalone snacks. Browse cat treats available at Ashario Pets to find freeze-dried and raw-inspired options.

Top Raw Cat Food Brands Carried at Ashario Pets

Ashario Pets carries a verified selection of raw, freeze-dried, and air-dried cat food brands. The following brands are confirmed in our inventory as of 2026:

• Instinct Raw — One of the most widely recognized raw cat food brands in Canada, Instinct Raw offers frozen raw bites and freeze-dried raw formulas made with high-quality animal proteins. Their freeze-dried raw cat food is a popular choice for Canadian cat owners looking for convenience without sacrificing nutritional integrity.
• Stella & Chewy's — Known for their freeze-dried raw dinner morsels and meal mixers, Stella & Chewy's cat food products are made with responsibly sourced poultry, fish, and red meat proteins. Their products are formulated to be complete and balanced when served as a meal.
• Primal — Primal produces freeze-dried and frozen raw cat food using USDA-inspected meats and poultry, with no grain, gluten, or artificial additives. Their formulas are available in a variety of proteins including chicken, turkey, and venison.
• Big Country Raw — A Canadian raw pet food brand that produces frozen raw cat food formulas, Big Country Raw is known for its commitment to Canadian-sourced ingredients and affordable raw options for multi-cat households.
• Red Dog Blue Kat — Another Canadian brand specializing in frozen raw food for cats and dogs, Red Dog Blue Kat offers single-protein and blended raw formulas designed for cats at every life stage.
• ZIWI — ZIWI's air-dried cat food is made in New Zealand with a very high meat, organ, and seafood inclusion rate. Their products are shelf-stable and free from rendered meats, fillers, and artificial preservatives.
• The New Zealand Natural Pet Food Co — Another New Zealand-sourced brand offering raw-inspired and freeze-dried options with clean ingredient profiles.
• Orijen — While best known for ultra-premium dry cat food, Orijen's high-protein, biologically appropriate formulas use fresh and raw-included ingredients, making them a strong option for cat owners transitioning toward raw feeding.

Visit the top pet product brands in Canada page on Ashario Pets to learn more about the brands we carry and their sourcing standards.

Raw Feeding Tips for Canadian Cat Owners

Switching your cat to a raw diet requires patience and planning. Below are practical feeding tips to help Canadian cat owners get started safely and successfully.

Transition Gradually

Most cats do not accept an overnight switch from dry or wet food to raw. A gradual transition over 7 to 14 days — mixing small amounts of raw food into their existing diet and slowly increasing the proportion — reduces the likelihood of digestive upset and food refusal. Cats are creatures of habit, and some may take longer to accept new textures and temperatures.

Serve Raw Food at Room Temperature

Cats are naturally averse to eating cold food straight from the refrigerator or freezer, as it does not mimic the temperature of fresh prey. Allow frozen raw food to fully thaw in the refrigerator and then bring it closer to room temperature before serving. Freeze-dried raw can be rehydrated with warm water, which also boosts moisture intake.

Practice Safe Handling

Raw meat carries bacteria such as Salmonella and Listeria. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food, clean food bowls and preparation surfaces with hot soapy water, and refrigerate unused portions promptly. Follow the storage instructions on each brand's packaging.

Consult Your Veterinarian

Before transitioning your cat to a raw diet — especially if your cat is a kitten, senior, pregnant, or has a compromised immune system — consult your veterinarian. A professional assessment ensures the diet you choose is appropriate for your individual cat's health needs. Ashario Pets staff can help you understand your product options, but all health-related dietary decisions should be made with veterinary guidance.

Consider Raw as a Topper

If a full raw diet is not feasible, using freeze-dried raw or raw meal toppers over your cat's existing wet or dry food is a practical way to introduce raw nutrition. This approach can improve palatability and boost protein intake without requiring a complete dietary overhaul.

For additional guidance on feline nutritional needs and product selection, visit the cat wellness needs page at Ashario Pets.

Where to Buy Raw Cat Food in North York, Ontario

Ashario Pets is a premium pet supply store serving cat owners in North York, Vaughan, Thornhill, and the surrounding Greater Toronto Area. As of 2026, Ashario Pets carries a wide selection of raw cat food, freeze-dried cat food, air-dried cat food, wet cat food, dry cat food, cat treats, and cat supplements from over 79 verified brands. The store is located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7 and is open 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM every day of the year, including holidays.

For cat owners who prefer delivery, Ashario Pets offers same-day and on-demand delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan. You can also reach the store directly at +1-647-564-4433.

Explore the complete cat product collection at Ashario Pets or visit the premium pet food selection page to browse available options online.

Frequently Asked Questions: Raw Cat Food in Canada

What is the best raw cat food brand in Canada in 2026?

Several high-quality raw cat food brands are available in Canada as of 2026, and the best choice depends on your cat's protein preferences, life stage, and your storage situation. Brands like Instinct Raw, Stella & Chewy's, Primal, ZIWI, Big Country Raw, and Red Dog Blue Kat are all carried at Ashario Pets and are well-regarded among Canadian raw feeders. Always consult your veterinarian to confirm the right choice for your cat.

Is freeze-dried raw cat food as nutritious as frozen raw?

Freeze-dried raw cat food retains most of the nutritional value of frozen raw food, as the freeze-drying process preserves proteins, fats, and enzymes without high heat. It is a convenient alternative to frozen raw for cat owners with limited freezer space or who travel frequently. Rehydrating freeze-dried food with warm water can also help increase your cat's moisture intake.

Can I find Instinct Raw or Stella & Chewy's cat food in North York?

Yes — both Instinct Raw and Stella & Chewy's cat food products are carried at Ashario Pets, located at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7. The store is open 9 AM to 11 PM daily, 365 days a year. You can also order through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, or Fantuan for delivery to your home.

How do I transition my cat from dry food to raw food?

Transitioning a cat from dry food to raw food is best done gradually over 7 to 14 days. Start by mixing a small amount of raw food into your cat's existing food and slowly increase the proportion of raw over time. Serving the food at room temperature and using freeze-dried raw as an intermediate step can help. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant dietary changes, particularly for kittens, senior cats, or cats with health conditions.

Does Ashario Pets offer delivery of raw cat food?

Yes — Ashario Pets in North York offers delivery through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan. This makes it easy for cat owners across North York and the Greater Toronto Area to receive raw cat food, freeze-dried cat food, and other premium pet supplies without leaving home. You can also call the store at +1-647-564-4433 for product inquiries.