Mary Allen
Feeding cats raw meat is a topic of great controversy among cat lovers. Many people swear by it, while others say it poses a danger not worth the potential risks to cats and their human family members. Skepticism about commercial diets is growing.
CAN CATS EAT RAW MEAT?
First, let’s talk about whether the meat you give your cat should be cooked or raw, and then what types of meat are ideal for your cat. Do cats in the wild regularly hunt and eat raw meat? If so, does that mean it’s acceptable to give them raw meat?
In summary, from a nutritional standpoint, cats that eat raw meat are perfectly healthy and safe. Of course, that’s what cats do when they feel threatened. However, there are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to feed your cat raw meat.
BENEFITS OF RAW MEAT FOR CATS
- A cat’s digestive tract is designed to process protein more than any other food. This property promotes the digestion and absorption of ingested food and reduces the amount of waste. As a result, cats that eat raw beef have a smaller, drier, and less smelly poo.
- Less hungry and begging cats – Raw beef is high in protein and therefore very filling. So when you feed your cat raw meat, they get more protein, more energy, and greater satisfaction.
- Fewer food demands mean less obesity, which is a common occurrence in cats.
Bones and other components of raw beef help keep cat’s teeth healthy. Chewing on cattle bones prevents plaque and tartar, leaving cats with cleaner teeth and a fresher mouth. - Raw meat is more hydrating than dry cat food because it contains more water than dry cat food.
WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF FEEDING RAW MEAT TO YOUR CAT?
The dangers are numerous, including bacterial infections, parasites, and internal injuries, as well as a lack or excess of nutrients.
PARASITES AND BACTERIA
Parasites and bacteria in raw meat can make cats sick. Cats can transmit pathogens to humans and excrete bacteria in the home. Commercial raw foods are regulated and tested to reduce the risk of foodborne infections. Homemade raw food meals can be more problematic, so pet owners should always purchase products from reputable sources.
To reduce the risk of infection, you should use commercial food, disinfect all surfaces that have come into contact with the food, and wash your hands thoroughly or even wear gloves. Pregnant women or people with a weakened immune system should be particularly careful. To avoid cross-contamination, all food should be stored in the freezer. Follow the directions for thawing frozen raw cat food.
NUTRIENT DEFICIENCY
Home-cooked raw cat food is less likely to be whole and balanced as the quality of ingredients can vary, increasing the possibility of nutrient deficiencies. Creating a balanced diet requires the help of experts. In this post, you will learn how to offer your cat healthy food.
Keep in mind that commercially available, reliable raw meat cat food may be a better alternative. It is tailored to your pet’s needs and tested for safety by pet nutrition experts.
WHAT MEAT CAN I FEED MY CAT?
You can feed your cat a variety of meats, including inexpensive cuts like chuck and round steak. Look for organic, free-range beef that’s chemical-free. As previously mentioned, I always recommend human-grade meat for cats. A monotonous diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies, so you should feed your meat a variety of foods. There is no guarantee that meals containing raw meat are nutritionally balanced. One meal can consist mainly of meat, another of offal or bones. This evens out after a few days.