The Power of Hard Cartilage: Nature’s Functional Superfood
When it comes to feeding dogs and cats a diet that supports their long-term health, cartilage is one of the most underutilized yet powerful whole-food options. Hard cartilage—found in animal parts like trachea, feet, and necks—provides joint support, dental health benefits, nutrient density, and natural enrichment. Unlike synthetic supplements, cartilage delivers these benefits in their most bioavailable, whole-food form.
Whether offered raw or air-dried, cartilage can be a game-changing addition to your pet’s diet.
What Exactly Is Cartilage?
Cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in joints, bones, and airways. It’s tougher than muscle but not as rigid as bone, making it both durable and digestible. Hard cartilage (such as trachea or knuckles) differs from softer cartilage (like chicken sternum or rib tips) by offering more chewing resistance and higher concentrations of joint-supporting compounds.
Why Cartilage Matters
Cartilage is naturally rich in compounds that support joint, connective tissue, and overall health:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin – Cushion joints, improve shock absorption, and help slow cartilage breakdown.
Collagen – Supports ligaments, tendons, skin, and coat health.
Minerals & Amino Acids – Provides calcium, phosphorus, and essential amino acids for strength and vitality.
Naturally Occurring Omega-3s – Found in trachea and other cartilage-rich parts, helping reduce inflammation and supporting overall well-being.
Health Benefits of Feeding Cartilage
Joint & Mobility Support – Protects joints, reduces stiffness, and aids recovery for both aging and active pets.
Dental Health – Chewing hard cartilage helps reduce plaque and tartar while strengthening gums.
Nutrient Density – High in protein, beneficial fats, and cartilage-specific compounds.
Mental Enrichment – Chewing satisfies instinctual behaviors, relieves stress, and keeps pets engaged.
Sources of Cartilage for Dogs and Cats
Different types of cartilage-rich foods can be rotated into your pet’s diet for variety and complete nutrition. At The Raw Concierge, we offer a wide selection of cartilage options:
Beef Trachea –
Raw Grass-Fed & Finished Beef Trachea (whole, medium, small) – long-lasting chew, rich in omega-3s, glucosamine, and chondroitin.
Air-Dried, Grass-Fed & Finished Beef Trachea Crumble (5 oz) – easy to sprinkle over meals or give as bite-sized training pieces.
Poultry Feet (Raw & Dehydrated) –
Chicken, Duck, and Pheasant Feet – crunchy, cartilage-rich treats that support joints and naturally clean teeth.
Poultry Necks (Raw & Dehydrated) –
Chicken, Duck, guinea fowl, Pheasant, and Turkey Necks – meaty options with cartilage, soft bone, and muscle for a balanced chew that supports dental and joint health.
These can be rotated weekly to give your pet variety and ensure they’re getting the full spectrum of cartilage benefits.
How to Feed Cartilage
Raw – Provides natural texture and nutrients in their most intact form. Best for experienced raw-fed pets.
Air-Dried – Convenient, shelf-stable, and versatile. Crumble can be added as a meal topper, or whole chews can be given as a treat.
Size-Appropriate Choices – Choose poultry feet or smaller necks for cats and small dogs, and larger trachea or turkey necks for bigger breeds.
Always supervise chewing and introduce new cartilage options slowly.
Cartilage for Cats
Cats benefit from cartilage just as much as dogs:
Chicken or pheasant feet and small sections of necks are manageable for their smaller jaws.
Air-dried trachea crumble can be sprinkled over meals for joint support.
Provides natural enrichment and supports dental care.
Final Thoughts
Hard cartilage isn’t just a chew—it’s a functional, whole-food superfood for pets. By incorporating cartilage into your pet’s routine, you can support:
Joint health and mobility
Dental hygiene and gum strength
Protein- and collagen-rich nutrition
Mental stimulation and natural chewing behaviors
At The Raw Concierge, we make it easy to add cartilage into your pet’s diet with options like Raw Beef Trachea, Air-Dried Trachea Crumble, Chicken Feet, Duck Necks, and more. Rotate these natural sources of cartilage to unlock their full benefits—and watch your pet thrive.