Why Eggshell Is NOT a Suitable Alternative for Raw Meaty Bones

When it comes to raw feeding, calcium is a crucial component of a balanced diet. Many pet parents who choose to avoid raw meaty bones turn to eggshells as an alternative source of calcium—but is this a suitable replacement? Not exactly. While eggshells do provide calcium, they lack the full spectrum of nutrients found in raw meaty bones. Here’s why relying on eggshell powder alone falls short in a species-appropriate diet.

1. Raw Meaty Bones Offer More Than Just Calcium

Raw meaty bones (RMBs) aren’t just about calcium—they provide a perfect balance of calcium and phosphorus, along with collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, and bone marrow, all of which support:

✔ Proper skeletal development
✔ Joint and cartilage health
✔ Strong teeth and jaw muscles

Eggshells, on the other hand, contain mostly calcium carbonate and no phosphorus, which can throw off the crucial calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in your pet’s diet. Without phosphorus, pets may struggle with bone development, muscle function, and overall metabolic health.



2. Lack of Nutrients for Joint & Dental Health

One of the major benefits of feeding raw meaty bones is dental health. Chewing on bones naturally:

✔ Scrapes away plaque and tartar
✔ Strengthens jaw muscles
✔ Encourages healthy chewing behavior

Eggshell powder does nothing for dental health. Pets fed only ground diets without bones miss out on these natural teeth-cleaning benefits, increasing the risk of dental disease.



3. Poor Bioavailability of Calcium

While eggshells contain calcium, it’s not as bioavailable as the calcium in raw meaty bones. This means your pet’s body may not absorb and utilize it as efficiently. In contrast, the calcium found in bones is in its natural form, making it easier for your pet to digest and use for bone maintenance and growth.



4. Can Lead to Calcium Imbalance

If eggshell powder is not properly balanced with phosphorus, an excess of calcium can interfere with:
⚠️ Iron, zinc, and magnesium absorption
⚠️ Bone growth in puppies/kittens
⚠️ Muscle function and overall health

Pets on a long-term diet with too much calcium and too little phosphorus may develop nutritional deficiencies, bone abnormalities, and joint issues.



Final Thoughts

Eggshell is not an adequate substitute for raw meaty bones. While it provides calcium, it lacks the essential nutrients found in bones that contribute to skeletal health, joint support, dental hygiene, and overall well-being. For a truly balanced, species-appropriate raw diet, raw meaty bones should always be the preferred calcium source.

💡 Need help balancing your pet’s raw diet? Book a consultation with me today for expert guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs!