Steve's Real Food Chicken Recipe Freeze-Dried Pet Food for Cats & Dogs (1.25 lb)

Free-Range Chicken Raw Nutrition, Conveniently Freeze-Dried for Pets

Product Description

Steve's Real Food Chicken Recipe Freeze-Dried Pet Food is a complete and balanced BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food) diet for both dogs and cats of all life stages. Each 1.25 lb bag contains tater tot-sized nuggets that make 5 lbs of food when rehydrated. Formulated with 80% meat, organ, and bone, 15% produce, and 5% value-added ingredients like New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel and raw goat milk, this minimally processed raw diet preserves maximum nutrient content and digestibility. Freeze-dried diets remain good for up to two years when stored properly.

Benefits

• Complete & Balanced: Formulated to meet AAFCO nutritional profiles for dogs and cats of all life stages, including large-breed growth.
• Joint Health Support: Chicken is high in manganese and magnesium, which are crucial for ligament health and overall joint function in pets.
• Complete Amino Acid Profile: Chicken contains all nine essential amino acids needed from food, making it a complete protein source for pets.
• No Fillers or Synthetics: Contains no synthetic vitamin packs, no fillers, no artificial colors or preservatives, and no added hormones or antibiotics.
• Great Energy Source: Chicken has a mid-range fat and protein profile, making it a great option for high-energy dogs and cats.

Ingredients

Ground Chicken, Ground Chicken Bone, Chicken Livers, Chicken Gizzards, Broccoli, Carrots, Romaine Lettuce, Cantaloupe, Raw Goat's Milk, Flaxseed, Dried Kelp, Salmon Oil, Coconut Oil, Inulin, Taurine, New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel, Ground Eggshell.

Guaranteed Analysis

Calorie Content: 139 kcal/oz

How to Use

Directions for Use

• Step 1 – Scoop: Measure the amount of freeze-dried food for your dog or cat using a measuring cup. Scoop one cup of nuggets for every 10 pounds of body weight.
• Step 2 – Soak: Measure ¾ cup of liquid for every 1 cup of food. Add water, pet-safe broth, raw goat milk, etc., on top of the food and let the liquid absorb to rehydrate.
• Step 3 – Serve: When ready, serve to your pet. Dispose of any uneaten food and wash all utensils, dishes, and surfaces that come into contact with the raw food.
• Transitioning: Introduce any new food by slowly mixing with your pet's current diet for the first 7–10 days, increasing the amount gradually while decreasing the amount of the other brand.
• Meal Frequency: Divide the daily serving size into 1–2 meals for adult pets, or 3–4 meals for puppies or kittens.

Daily Feeding Chart

Additional Information

Precautions

• Raw Meat Handling: Wash your hands, utensils, and any surfaces that come into contact with the raw food, following the same safe handling practices used for raw meats prepared for humans.
• Rehydration Required: If the meal is not rehydrated before serving, it will absorb water from the gut, potentially dehydrating your pet; feeding dry in large amounts can lead to discomfort, constipation, or, in severe cases, intestinal blockage.
• Storage Instructions: Keep the bag sealed and away from direct sunlight and moisture. Avoid storing in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, such as garages or sheds.
• Shelf Life: Freeze-dried diets remain good for up to two years when stored properly. Once rehydrated, food can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Gradual Transition: Sudden changes in diet, including overfeeding, can sometimes result in digestive issues; always introduce new food gradually over 7–10 days.

Possible Side Effects

• Digestive Upset During Transition: Loose stools or mild stomach upset may occur when switching to a raw diet; monitor your pet's temperament and stool quality during the transition period.
• Dehydration Risk (if fed dry): Feeding dry in large amounts can lead to discomfort, constipation, or, in severe cases, intestinal blockage; always rehydrate before serving.
• Food Sensitivities: Feeding a variety of protein sources can help prevent food sensitivities or allergies from developing due to repeated exposure to a single protein.
• Picky Eating Behaviour: Some cats and dogs may initially resist the transition; try mixing old food with the raw food, using it as a topper, or serving it slightly warmed (never cooked) to enhance aroma.

Shipping & Returns

We offer ground, express, priority, and international delivery; see our shipping policy for details.

For return instructions or product concerns, please refer to our detailed refund policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is the BARF formulation ratio in this freeze-dried chicken diet?

Ans: This freeze-dried diet follows a BARF formulation composed of 80% meat, organ, and bone; 15% produce; and 5% value-added ingredients such as New Zealand Green Lipped Mussel, coconut oil, and raw goat milk, with no synthetic vitamin packs used.

Q2: Is this chicken recipe suitable for both dogs and cats?

 Ans: Yes, the chicken recipe is complete and balanced for both dogs and cats of all life stages. It meets AAFCO nutritional standards, making it a suitable option for multi-species households where both dogs and cats are fed together.

Q3: Why is chicken a good protein choice for high-energy pets?

Ans: Chicken has a mid-range fat and protein profile, making it an excellent energy source for active pets. It also contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein that supports muscle maintenance and repair.

Q4: How does this diet support joint health in pets?

Ans: The chicken recipe is high in manganese and magnesium, two minerals that are crucial for ligament health and joint function. These nutrients support strong connective tissue, which is especially beneficial for active or aging pets.

Q5: How much should I feed my pet per day?

Ans: Scoop one cup of nuggets per 10 pounds of body weight daily. Divide into 1–2 meals for adult pets or 3–4 meals for puppies and kittens. Adjust the amount based on your pet's age, activity level, and individual needs.

Q6: What liquids can be used to rehydrate the freeze-dried nuggets?

Ans: Hot water works well and is the easiest option. You can also use low-sodium bone broth, raw goat milk, or kefir to enhance the meal. Note that cold or thick liquids like kefir will take considerably longer to rehydrate the food fully.

Q7: Where does Steve's Real Food source its chicken?

Ans: The chicken comes from a family-owned farm in Washington state, where chickens roam freely, are vegetarian-fed, and raised without added hormones or antibiotics. The produce is also GMO-free and pesticide-free, sourced from the Pacific Northwest.

Q8: Can my pet eat this freeze-dried chicken diet if they have a chicken allergy to kibble?

Ans: Many pets that react to chicken-based dry kibble do well on raw chicken. This is because the sensitivity is often to the highly processed kibble rather than the chicken protein itself. Consult your veterinarian before switching if your pet has a known allergy history.

Q9: Can this be used as a meal topper or treat?

Ans: Yes, this freeze-dried food can be used as a complete meal, a topper over current food, or a high-quality training treat. Its tater tot-sized nuggets are easy to break apart, making them convenient for training and rewarding pets on the go.

Q10: How long does the product stay fresh after opening?

Ans: After opening, keep the package sealed and stored in a cool, dark area such as a cupboard, where it stays fresh for up to 12 months. Once rehydrated, food should be refrigerated and consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.