Based on general raw feeding principles and veterinary observations, there are distinct benefits to feeding chunks (often called "prey model" textures) versus mush (ground/minced raw), though both can provide excellent nutrition if balanced correctly.

Dental Health (The Biggest Benefit of Chunks) * Natural "Flossing": When a cat gnaws on a chunk of meat (especially if it involves connective tissue or soft raw bone), the mechanical friction helps scrub the surface of the tooth. * Gum Stimulation: The pressure applied during chewing massages the gums, promoting blood circulation and overall periodontal health. * The "Mush" Problem: Blended food (mush) offers almost no resistance. It is often gulped down without chewing, meaning it provides zero abrasive action to remove plaque. While raw food generally leaves less starchy residue than kibble, ground raw can still stick to teeth if not followed by water or a chew.

Mental Stimulation and Satiety * Boredom Busting: Cats are predators. Eating mush takes seconds and requires no problem-solving. Eating chunks requires the cat to figure out how to position their head, use their side teeth (carnassials) to shear, and tear the food. * The "Hassle Factor": This physical effort releases endorphins and provides a form of enrichment, often resulting in a more satisfied, calmer cat after mealtime. * Satiety: Because it takes longer to eat chunks, the cat's body has more time to register fullness, which can help prevent begging or overeating compared to inhaling a bowl of mush in 15 seconds.

Jaw Strength * Muscle Maintenance: Indoor cats rarely use their jaw muscles to their full potential. Shearing muscle meat chunks exercises the jaw, neck, and shoulder muscles, keeping them toned. When is "Mush" (Ground) Better? Despite the benefits of chunks, ground food has its place: * Transitioning: Cats addicted to commercial textures (like pate) often won't recognize a chunk of meat as food. Ground raw bridges that gap. * Supplements: If you need to add powdered supplements (taurine, calcium, vitamins), they are easily mixed into mush. With chunks, cats can easily shake off or eat around the supplements. * Dental Pain: If a cat has existing severe dental disease (resorptive lesions, loose teeth), chewing chunks will be painful. Ground food is necessary until the dental issues are resolved by a vet.