What does raw food have that my pet is not getting from processed food? PART 3:
The past two months we have gone over two of the three things a raw diet has, that kibble cannot compete with. The third benefit just may be the most important of all.

Intracellular Moisture
Intracellular moisture, or the moisture within a cell, is the most effective way for our pets to absorb the moisture they need to maintain optimum health. Moisture is absorbed during the digestion of the food; this is how nature intended the process to work. Moisture is naturally higher in raw meats, fruits and vegetables. As these foods digest, the moisture is absorbed into the body and effectively hydrates your pet. Cooking the food destroys the moisture, which is why even though canned foods are wet, they do not provide the same moisture benefits of a raw diet.

Of course raw fed pets still need access to fresh, clean water, but you will notice that raw fed pets drink very little water compared to their kibble fed friends. Dogs, and especially cats that do drink a lot of water should be checked for dehydration, as this is one sign of pet lacking proper hydration. Dehydration is a major contributor to many common illnesses that plague our pets. We see this presenting as urinary tract infections, struvite crystals, renal failure and many other common issues that our companion pets are dealing with and are often accepted as normal aging. Your pet's body cannot and will not operate at its fullest potential without the proper hydration level.

On hot days, or when our pets exercise more than normal, they may drink more water. Do not be surprised though if your raw fed pet rarely drinks from the water bowl. A well hydrated pet, is a happy, healthy pet!