There is no definitive proof that this would not also apply to our pets. It is well known that raw animal products contain significantly higher levels of amino acids than commercial pet foods. It has been shown that obtaining more than the minimum recommended dietary amounts of many essential and “semi-essential” amino acids can be beneficial.
Whole, fresh, minimally processed foods also contain more enzymes, friendly bacteria, beneficial phytonutrients, antioxidants, fatty acids, and more that will not be found at nearly the same levels in highly processed foods. For this reason, research in nutrition science has been placing more and more emphasis on foods rather than individual nutrients, based on the premise that it is healthier to obtain nutrients directly from primarily whole food sources rather than from primarily synthetic or fortified sources. In comparison with dry extruded pet foods, research has consistently shown that raw foods have a higher nutrient digestibility in dogs, cats, and ferrets.
Recent studies have also shown that raw diets can promote a healthier gut microbiome in dogs. Raw diets also contain significantly less ingredients with anti-nutritional effects. Increased digestibility and better nutrition can result in an increase in overall health; it can improve not only an animal’s physical health, but also its behavioral and cognitive health. This has been demonstrated in both humans and dogs. There is also evidence of significantly improved dental health in animals fed a diet that includes raw meaty bones.