It’s no secret that cats are huge meat eaters! They can’t live without it, in fact. Chicken is a popular item on the market, and it’s likely on your pet’s wish list. Cats are drawn to this protein-rich meal like magnets.

In fact, chicken is one of the main and most popular ingredients found in kibbles, wet food, and others. But can cats eat chicken wings or should they be satisfied with commercial cat foods?

As we now know, meat is the best food for felines, so chicken wings can definitely benefit your cat. Also, poultry is one of the cheapest meats on the market, which makes your life a tad easier. Your pet gets the nutrients and you get some relief due to the lower price!

It seems it’s a win-win situation when it comes to chicken wings. Your furry friend would love to munch down on some wings, but is there more to it than just the heavenly taste?

1. Packed with protein

The good news is that chicken is a very high-protein food. Felines require a daily protein supply and must consume it on a consistent basis. It helps carnivores in a variety of ways, including boosting their immunity and keeping their nervous systems in good shape.

Protein is the most important factor in your cat’s general health and well-being. Your cat will lose weight, muscular mass, and become frail if she doesn’t eat enough protein. She’s built to digest animal-derived proteins better than those from plants because she’s an obligate carnivore.

2. Low-fat meat

Chicken wings are lower in fat than beef and other meat. Unsaturated fat is a highly appreciated nutrient in the feline world. It provides cats with an energy source and keeps them warm in low temperatures.

Healthy fats are known to decrease cholesterol levels, which reduces the risk of heart diseases. It also helps prevent heart stroke and other medical issues related to high cholesterol.

3. One part meat, one part bones

Besides meat, a decent part of chicken wings is bones. You’d think bones are for the dogs, but they can also benefit your kitto.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are found in chicken bones. These minerals are in charge of joint health and have an overall favorable impact on your cat’s movement.

They can help cats cope with the pain of arthritis. There are various treats and medications for cats with arthritis that contain high doses of glucosamine.

Chondroitin, like glucosamine, is a component of connective tissue and cartilage. Furthermore, chicken wings, just like chicken feet, are high in collagen, a protein that helps to build bones and muscles.

4. A great collagen source

Collagen is particularly advantageous to elderly cats since it aids in the prevention of cartilage and bone loss, as well as the reduction of joint pain. Your furball’s coat may shine brighter than your future thanks to collagen levels found in chicken!

Collagen takes care of not only that magnificent fluff, but also the skin beneath it all. It keeps the skin moisturized, giving it suppleness and helping to prevent wrinkles and cellulite.

5. Chicken wings are the new dentist!

Throw away the chew bones and instead opt for some chicken wings! Felines have naturally strong teeth that let them gnaw down on their prey’s flesh. Chewable treats help them keep their teeth sharp and healthy.

Your pet will be brushing her teeth in this manner. It’s not as glamorous as using a brush and toothpaste, but it gets the job done! Cats can get rid of plaque and build-up on their teeth by gnawing on some chicken wings.

Dental hygiene eliminates foul breath and eliminates the potential for infections and diseases! Some homemade chicken wings could do a better job than store-bought treats.

We understand where your question comes from because, as pet parents, we often face difficult decisions. Do we tell our four-legged friends “No” and make them scrunch up their snouts and pout for the rest of the day? Or tell them “Yes” and hurt their tummies?

Who’s to say your furry friend won’t continue scoffing down everything pork-related she can get her paws on? You don’t want to open Pandora’s box and introduce her to a whole new world of cat foods and cat treats that might make her meow and purr her way into getting what she wants.

But, the cat’s out of the bag now (no pun intended). Your feline friend’s aware of the existence of one of the most mouth-watering, paw-licking pork treats out there… Yes, the one and only pork rinds that make every human’s life worth living (a bit dramatic, but you understand where we’re coming from).

Can cats eat pork rinds? Can cats eat pork, for that matter? Would cooked pork make a difference when compared to raw pork? Would pork meat, pork chops, and pork sausage make a better meal for cats than pork belly, pork skin, pork fat, and pork bones?

According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can eat pork. However, pork rinds might not be the best choice for her. Here’s everything you need to know to embark on your “cats versus pork rinds” journey.

What are pork rinds?

And that’s a pretty valid question when you’re not a Southerner! Trust me, the idea of turning pig skin into a snack that looks like a Doritos and Cheetos love child sounds like something straight out of a Tim Burton movie. “Can cats eat pork rinds”, more like “can humans eat pork rinds?!”

You might have guessed this beforehand, but pork rinds (or chicharrones) are pretty much pieces of pork skin playing the role of something crispy, crunchy, and commercially available. And, how exactly are pork rinds made?

First things first, the above-mentioned pieces of pork skin are simmered in boiling water. They’re then divided into smaller pieces (bite-sized, paw-sized, whichever you prefer). And they’re left to cool down for a couple of hours until the fat solidifies and becomes easier to remove.

After that, they’re placed into an oven where they’re baked for EIGHT HOURS on low heat until the moisture evaporates and they become a lot drier and crunchier.

Last but not least, they’re fried in vegetable oil, peanut oil, or even pork fat until they puff up and become nice and crispy. They’re then seasoned (while they’re still piping hot!) with salt, pepper, and other seasonings. These can include cayenne pepper, chili pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

That sounds… even better than bacon. Now you know what’s going into your cat’s stomach when you’re feeding her pork rinds. (Because you just don’t know how to say “No” when she gives you that look). You can scroll down to learn whether pork rinds are even worth the risk.

Do cats like pork rinds?

That’s another great question when you remember that cats are notorious for being both curious and picky about what goes into their stomachs. Pork rinds sound like a delicious snack for everyone involved, but does that include your furry friend?

Here‘s the thing, cats are obligate carnivores. That‘s a fancy way of saying that cats require a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced vitamins and minerals in their diets to survive. They don’t require fruits, veggies, and grains the same way humans do.

They don’t even possess the enzymes necessary for their digestive systems to break down and process most foods humans eat. And, they have to spend the majority of their life on a Keto diet (talking about a skinny legend, right?!).

Pork rinds might not be the first thing your four-legged friend thinks of when she’s presented with an option of munching on meat, but… Pork rinds do (technically) seem like they belong to your cat’s natural diet.

They contain meat (kind of), they contain animal protein, and they don’t contain carbohydrates (we know how Keto humans feel about their carbs, right?).

So, there’s nothing weird about being a cat owner and thinking to yourself “might as well share some pork rinds with my chummy”. Most cats LOVE the taste and the crunch that pork rinds provide them with. But, how does consuming pork rinds affect your cat‘s health? Can cats eat pork rinds?

So, can cats eat pork rinds?

There’s no simple way of answering this question… On the one hand, pork rinds aren‘t toxic to cats and they‘re not the worst thing your cat can munch on. On the other, they do contain a bunch of fat, salt, and seasonings that can send your cat running to her litterbox.

So, feel free to take a look at how some of the things typically found in pork rinds affect your cat’s health. And give your vet a quick call (or even a visit). Trust me, feeding human foods to your four-legged friend doesn’t come without risks and side effects.

1. High-fat content

We can’t forget about the high amount of fat your furry friend might consume alongside a couple of pork rind nibbles. Pork rinds are beaming with fat and fatty acids (and not even the good kind!?) which might lead to a bunch of health problems.

Firstly, consuming large amounts of fat might leave your cat with problems such as weight gain, obesity, and diabetes. Your chunky cat might look adorable with that extra fluff. However, weight loss doesn’t come easy (as most of us have experienced it on our own skin).

On the other hand, fat can also leave your cat with high cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

So, before you and your furry friend head out to the nearest Piggly Wiggly to get a “buy two get one for free” packet of pork rinds, you might want to back out of that deal. Cats can eat pork rinds, but that doesn’t mean they should.

2. High sodium content

Have you ever thrown a glance at the back of your pet food? Most cat owners don’t even realize that pet food doesn’t typically contain large quantities of salt. That’s because salt doesn’t sit well with your cat’s stomach.

Your cat can have an occasional treat with a high sodium content (such as pork rinds). But, such treats shouldn’t become a regular part of your cat’s diet. Trust me, your cat’s body doesn‘t need high sodium levels (the same way your body doesn’t, either!).

Sodium can cause a bunch of health problems (when consumed excessively). Excessive thirst and urination, weakness, lethargy, incoordination, vomiting, and diarrhea are only some of the symptoms. They all point toward your cat consuming too much sodium (or too many pork rinds!).

Can cats even eat pork rinds knowing they might experience these symptoms?!

3. Seasonings, additives, and preservatives

We can’t forget about seasonings, additives, and preservatives that make pork rinds A LOT worse for your cat’s health than they would normally be. Sure, pork rinds (or pork skin) contain a bunch of fat on their own.

But, they wouldn’t be nearly as dangerous for your cat without the garlic, chili powders, and xylitol’s of the world. To your cat’s demise, these are the ingredients that make pork rinds harmful (and even toxic).

However, if you choose to share a bite with your pet, then be 100% sure the type of pork rinds you’re eating doesn’t contain any of the mentioned ingredients. Also, make sure every decision you make gets the green light from your vet.

How can you let your precious purrincess suffer while trying to chew on raw meat? How can you let her live off of a raw food diet when you’re perfectly capable of providing her with the most carefully crafted cat foods and cat treats out there?

There’s pretty much no reason for her to munch on raw chicken or raw beef when she’s presented with a bowl of Meow Mix every single morning. Other than an occasional mouse, spider, or a big bug she doesn’t nibble on anything that’s breathing.

That’s not to say that she doesn‘t want to, though! She looks at a piece of raw chicken the same way you look at Joey from Friends when he utters his famous “How you doin’?”, and that’s saying something. She’s waiting for you to give her a “Yes, go ahead” look, but you’re not sure.

Can cats eat raw meat with no repercussions? Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) don’t recommend feeding raw meat to your four-legged friend for a bunch of reasons.

That’s not to say that a raw meat diet shouldn’t be an option. But, you should make sure to cover the bases before you make your decision. What does a healthy cat’s diet look like? What does a raw meat diet demand? And what are the risks of a raw meat diet?

What’s the deal with cats and raw meat?

Cats have VERY specific nutritional requirements. Cats are curious (“curiosity killed the cat”, right?). But, they’re also INCREDIBLY picky and persnickety when they‘re choosing what goes into their mouths. They‘re not going to munch on anything – they have standards, you know?

There’s no reason to be surprised when you notice your cat getting bored with her regular pet food and looking for something a bit… better. Cats are obligate carnivores which means they NEED a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets to survive and thrive.

They don’t need fruits, veggies, and whole grains the same way humans do. Their digestive systems don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most human foods. But, they do possess the enzymes necessary to break down raw meats.

Wild cats have been hunting and feeding off of RAW animals their entire lives. Domesticated cats might be a bit more sensitive and accustomed to a different lifestyle. But, that doesn’t mean that they don’t have what it takes to live in the wild and feed the same way their ancestors did.

The BIGGEST concern with feeding cats raw meats has to be the fact that raw meat doesn’t come without a bunch of bacteria and parasites. That’s true, raw feeding your feline friend could lead to health problems, nutritional deficiency, and a bunch of other problems.

Here‘s the thing, most cat owners (that are PRO raw feeding) argue that raw meats and raw bones belong to a cat’s natural diet. They do contain a bunch of protein (and no carbohydrates), fatty acids, amino acids, taurine, and other nutrients.

They’re right, but they’re not considering the fact that domesticated cats have different nutritional needs than the ones found in the wild.

Can cats eat raw meat?

We’re going with a “Yes” AND a “No” on this one! Sure, wild cats have been eating raw meat without repercussions for quite some time (how about forever!), but domesticated cats haven’t.

Most pet owners feed their precious pets cat food and cat treats (and they don’t really have commercially available raw cat food, do they?). Domesticated cats don’t even feed off of mice, spiders, and bugs that often because they’re accustomed to a different lifestyle.

Sure, their digestive systems possess the enzymes necessary to deal with bacteria and parasites. But, you can‘t forget that their digestive systems only need ONE mistake to make them seriously sick. So, you have to consider a couple of things before jumping head first into the water.

When you’re planning on feeding her raw meat you should consult with your vet and make sure you purchase high-quality meat from a reputable source.

You should also make sure to store the meat the right way to avoid cross-contamination. Or even worse, feeding corrupted or rotten meat to your four-legged friend?!

There’s hardly anything more important than your cat’s health. So, on the off chance that she’s bored with her regular commercial cat food, you need to make sure to provide her with a balanced diet that’s packed with high-quality meat (raw or cooked) that’s been approved by your vet.

Obviously, cooked meat doesn’t possess the same bacteria and parasites (the cooking process pretty much kills them off). But, you should still make sure your meat’s prepared properly.

Cooked meat you’re planning on sharing with your feline friend shouldn‘t contain salt, seasonings, or other unfavorable ingredients.

All in all, cats can eat raw meat, but that doesn’t mean that they should. Not convinced? Here’s what to expect when you’re feeding different types of raw meats to your four-legged friend.

What about raw chicken?

We’re starting off with a very shaky YES! We’ve already touched upon the potential risks of feeding raw meat to your feline friend. But, we can’t forget to mention a couple of things you can expect when you’re feeding raw chicken to your cat.

Raw chicken contains pathogens, bacteria, and parasites that can enter your cat’s digestive system and make her INCREDIBLY sick. We’re talking about symptoms such as weakness, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, excessive urination, diarrhea that might contain blood or mucus, and fever.

Raw chicken typically contains Salmonella and Campylobacter bacteria which can cause severe symptoms of food poisoning. Cooking your cat’s chicken can prevent her from confronting these symptoms. Although, cats can GENERALLY break down these pesky passengers with their stomach acids.

Can cats eat raw beef?

We’re giving you another diffident YES! Cats can eat raw beef, but that’s not to say that you shouldn’t be on guard when introducing raw meat to your cat’s diet (they can be pretty tough on your cat’s digestive tract).

First things first, raw beef ALSO contains bacteria and parasites such as Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella, and Staphylococcus Aureus (however that’s pronounced) that can send your furry friend to the emergency animal center.

Symptoms are pretty similar regardless of the type of bacteria. So, you can keep an eye out for weakness, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, depression, dehydration, and diarrhea.

On the other hand, raw beef contains more fat and fatty acids than chicken. Consuming raw beef can cause weight gain and obesity. Don’t even get me started on raw ground beef which contains EVEN MORE calories?! Let’s just say your feline friend might want to skip the next trip to Trader Joe’s!

What about raw fish?

Cats can eat raw fish, but not without any repercussions! Pretty much everything we’ve mentioned so far about feeding raw meat to your four-legged friend applies to fish, too. Feeding raw fish to your cat doesn’t come without the risk of bacteria and parasite poisoning.

Raw fish typically contains bacteria such as Listeria, Vibrio, Clostridium, and Salmonella which can wreak havoc in your cat’s digestive system. On the other hand, raw fish ALSO contains enzymes that can destroy thiamine in your cat’s body.

Some of the most common symptoms of thiamine deficiency range anywhere from diarrhea, vomiting, and anorexia, to neurological symptoms such as loss of vision, dilated pupils, ataxia, tremors, seizures, and coma. Cooking the fish helps destroy those enzymes and ensures your cat’s safety.

Can cats eat raw liver?

Cats can eat SMALL bites of raw liver! Consuming raw liver does come with the same risk of getting infected with bacteria and parasites. But, this tasty treat’s pretty great for your furry friend when consumed MODERATELY.

One too many bites of the raw liver can lead to vitamin A toxicity. Some of the most common symptoms of vitamin A toxicity are weakness, weight loss, dryness of the skin and hair, painful movement, and excessive bone development.

Vitamin A toxicity (when left untreated) can even cause osteoporosis. This is an incredibly dangerous condition that can diminish the quality of your cat’s life.

Conclusion

Oh, the age-old question “Can cats eat raw meat?!” We can’t give you a straight “Yes“ or “No“ answer. But, we can provide you with the information and instruction needed to draw your own conclusions.

Cats can eat raw meat (kinda?!), but you should ALWAYS make sure to consult with your vet. Keep an eye out for ANY symptoms of food poisoning or digestive discomfort your four-legged friend might experience.

But, how can you share a lunch meat sandwich with her when you don‘t even know what lunch meat is? It‘s a type of meat… that you eat for lunch?! How can you let your precious purrincess feast on something that could cause her harm?

“You never let me eat anything!”, she gives you the look of utter despair. “You’re always munching on something in the middle of the night, but when Mrs. McFluffer asks for a bite you say it’s too late!”, she starts meowing, purring, and pointing to her bowl.

“Argh, let me hop online!”, you say as you’re trying to figure out whether lunch meat can cause adverse reactions and side effects when consumed ONE TIME. Don’t worry; we’ve got your back and we’ve got some answers coming your way.

Your cat’s better off munching on cat food and cat treats, but you might be wondering what’s wrong with feeding lunch meat to your cat when she’s looking for a snack. Here’s everything you need to know (and more!) before heading to your local Trader Joe’s for a restock.

What’s lunch meat?

Oh boy, aren’t you in for a treat! Lunch meats are one of the most popular processed meats around the world. They are also referred to as cold cuts, luncheon meats, sliced meats, and the list goes on.

They’re pretty much ready-to-eat, sliced meats that you can serve up as paw-licking appetizers, stack up on mouth-watering sandwiches, and put on top of pretty much anything you want to scoff down (without the messy cleanups!). No wonder your cat’s been meowing your ears off!

Don’t even get me started on the fact that there are SO MANY different types of lunch meat out there! Some of the healthier versions include turkey lunch meat, chicken breast lunch meat, a leaner version of ham, and roast beef (or cooked beef) lunch meat.

Some of the unhealthier versions include deli cold cuts, bologna, sausage, salami, and (regular) ham. We use the terms “healthy” and “unhealthy” very lightly considering that lunch meats don’t make for a balanced diet and don’t possess the nutritional benefits most humans are after.

They’re a great pick-me-up after a long day at work or a snack-on-the-go when you’re rushing to get to work in time. But, they tend to pack a great deal of sodium, additives, preservatives, and artificial colorings which don‘t get a passing grade, even among humans.

Can cats eat lunch meat, then? Can your cat have a bite or two of your chicken breast lunch meat sandwich without having to run to her litterbox afterward? And, can cats even digest lunch meat and everything that comes within a slice of lunch meat? Keep reading to find out!

Can cats eat lunch meat, then?

With everything we’ve learned about lunch meat, you can’t help but wonder “Can cats really eat lunch meat without repercussions?” You can’t help but think that this type of heavily processed meat can’t be good for your four-legged friend. You’re right, but you’re also not right.

According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can eat lunch meat but shouldn’t. Don’t get me wrong, a bite or two of your lunch meat sandwich shouldn’t cause harm to your cat‘s health, but anything more than that might end up poorly.

We can’t say that lunch meat’s the worst thing your cat can munch on. Let’s be honest, human food’s the least of your cat’s concerns when you remember the number of bugs, mice, and other odd-looking creatures she’s devoured while you were too busy rewatching Friends for the millionth time!

Cats are obligate carnivores. They require a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diets to survive. They don‘t require fruits, veggies, and whole grains the same way humans do.

Their digestive systems don‘t possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most food humans eat on a regular. Actually, most cat owners don’t even know that their cat‘s digestive systems can’t get over the salt, sugar, and other seasonings they put on their food.

And that‘s the main problem with lunch meat! Lunch meat (being meat and everything) contains a bunch of animal protein and animal-sourced nutrients that can benefit your cat’s health. But, lunch meat also contains a bunch of salt, seasonings, and preservatives that can cause health problems.

Trust me, your feline friend‘s better off munching on something else (a bite of roasted chicken breasts, perhaps?). You can give her an occasional turkey lunch meat tidbit, but who’s to say she won’t scoff down the entire thing?!

Cats can eat lunch meat, but they shouldn’t for numerous reasons. What’s the deal with feeding lunch meat to your cat, anyway?

Think about the following before feeding lunch meat to your cat

We’ve mentioned this already, but lunch meat does contain a bunch of stuff your furry friend isn‘t supposed to eat. A slice of ham and a couple of bites of sausage aren’t going to send her to the emergency animal center. But, these paw-licking sandwich stackers shouldn’t be a part of your cat’s diet.

Trust me, salt, seasonings, and preservatives can make your cat’s life miserable. There’s a good reason why you can‘t find any of these on the back of your cat’s regular pet food. They’re (kind of) safe as an occasional treat but they don’t belong inside of your cat’s stomach on a regular.

1. Salt

One of the biggest reasons why lunch meat doesn’t sit well on your cat’s stomach happens to be salt. What? Who doesn’t like a sprinkle of salt here and there?! Your cat certainly does (salty’s one of the few flavors she can taste), but she can’t have high levels of sodium on a regular.

What’s excessive for a cat, you might be wondering? Anything more than 40 milligrams a day seems like a stretch for your four-legged friend. Most types of lunch meat contain more than 1000 milligrams of salt per 100 grams. That really puts things into perspective, doesn’t it?!

Consuming too much salt can result in salt poisoning. And trust me, you don’t want your cat to experience symptoms of salt poisoning. Symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, loss of coordination, loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea don’t sound that fun!

2. Seasonings

There can be something worse than salt for your cat?! That’s right, cats can’t eat lunch meat because most lunch meat contains a bunch of seasonings that can include garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and chili pepper.

These seasonings can cause harm to your cat because they contain compounds your cat’s digestive system can’t process. Consuming these seasonings can cause conditions such as hemolytic anemia, Heinz body anemia, and methemoglobinemia. Not to mention the digestive issues!

3. Preservatives

We can’t forget about preservatives, can we? Lunch meats might contain vitamin A, taurine, calcium, and a bunch of amino acids. But, lunch meat also contains nitrates and nitrites which aren’t as gentle on your cat’s stomach as the ones we mentioned beforehand.

Preservatives can become detrimental to your cat’s health when consumed over a longer period. Don’t worry; a couple of lunch meat slices don’t contain enough nitrates and nitrites for your cat to experience adverse reactions. But, the moment she asks for more (and she will) you have to say “No.”

Can cats eat lunch meat considering the number of bad things this tasty treat contains? We’re pretty sure the answer to that question should be “No”, too.

Can cats eat turkey lunch meat?

No, not really! Turkey lunch meat does seem to be better for your furry friend than most other kinds, but… That doesn‘t mean that the two of you should run off to your local Trader Joe‘s and buy every packet of Oven Roasted Turkey Breast (as delicious as that sounds).

Even turkey lunch meat contains a bunch of salt, seasonings, and preservatives that can make your furry friend’s life miserable. Sure, she’s better off having a nibble of turkey lunch meat than pretty much any of the other ones.

But, she’s also better off having a nibble of properly prepared turkey breast or turkey Fancy Feast. Don’t let her choose, though, because she’s bound to go for what she’s NOT supposed to nibble on. That’s how the cookie crumbles.

Can cats eat chicken lunch meat?

That’s a “No”, too! Sure, cats can eat chicken and reap the benefits of one of the best sources of animal protein. Cats can even eat chicken Fancy Feast and chicken Meow Mix when they’re looking for a “thank you for being so adorable” treat. But, cats can’t eat chicken lunch meat.

Everything we mentioned beforehand works for this, too. Chicken lunch meat doesn’t seem to be better for your cat’s health than any other lunch meat. It does contain pretty much the same amount of salt, seasonings, and preservatives as other types of lunch meat.

What’s the conclusion? Can cats eat lunch meat?

Lunch meat doesn’t have the “do not feed to cats” label, but that doesn’t mean that you should include turkey lunch meat, ham, or sausage into your cat’s regular diet. And no, cats can’t eat lunch meat.

Lunch meat contains a bunch of things that can cause harm to your cat and you’re better off keeping her away from the fridge and your sandwich. There are better alternatives on the market and trust me, they’re worth the trip.

You think this is a silly question because you’ve obviously seen your pet eating raw meat before. Well, sure you did. But just how healthy do you think raw beef can be for felines? Is there something you should worry about?

I know it sounds unbelievable, but maybe raw beef isn’t the best choice for your feline companion. Don’t get me wrong, carnivores need to eat meat in order to survive. However, a tiger from the wild doesn’t cope the same as our domestic tiger.

What does this even mean? Aren’t cats supposed to be fine eating raw meat like beef and others? Your pet probably hasn’t had the chance to take a bite of this red meat, right? Don’t try to trick me, I know you cook it for her!

I’ve been there, done that. But some people have told you that you shouldn’t waste your time with that: “Just let her eat raw meat like she’s supposed to.”

But is she? These comments can be really frustrating because all you’re doing is trying to provide the best care for your furbaby. Although, people can sometimes do more harm than good to their pets.

I know we do everything with good intentions and not to purposely put our furkids at risk. But you have to admit that cat parents can sometimes get ahead of themselves.

We can get carried away, but it’s our pets to blame. We love them so much and want to give them the best life, just like they deserve!

Can cats eat raw beef safely?

When you go to the pet store, you always look for the best and most nutritious food for your pet. The ones they always recommend are kibbles with a high meat percentage. It’s usually chicken, pork, fish, or beef.

It seems to work completely fine because your pet’s totally healthy and well-fed. What else could she need? Perhaps you’ve recently read about the benefits of feeding your cat raw food. More specifically, raw beef.

You’re kind of skeptical because you never thought of it before. Sure, big cats survive off of it. But what about your little purrincess? Could she be able to chow down on the meat?

More importantly, can cats eat raw beef safely? Our domesticated friends certainly act tough, but can they really take it like their wild cousins?

As cat parents, we tend to dismiss the fact that our pets are spoiled. Deep down, we know it’s true. Can this somehow affect their life and health? Do we feed them too many treats and too little meat?

Should we change their diet, add more greens or throw them out completely? There are tons of questions and what-ifs when it comes to our cats’ diet. And just when we think we’re experienced owners, there’s always something new lurking.

The question “Can cats eat raw beef” might sound simple, but it’s anything but. Let’s see some pros and cons of this red meat.

Meat benefits for cats

Just like every meat, raw beef has lots of potential benefit for your feline. It’s meat after all, right?

You see, cats are obligate carnivores. This implies that they need to chow down on meat every day in order to grow. If they don’t, they’ll eventually face some health issues.

It’s simple as that: cats need meat. Their bodies are wired to digest and break down the nutrients found in meat. On the contrary, their digestive systems aren’t so good at processing veggies.

Sure, there are some greens that they may nibble on, but nothing can top the juicy flesh of raw beef. Their claws and fangs just aren’t made for hunting down an eggplant!

On the other hand, those sharp razors are perfect for taking a bite of that meaty treat. Mother nature has made sure that they have all the right equipment.

Now it’s up to us to really provide our feline companions with the best care possible. The question remains: Should they have raw beef?

I’ve already mentioned that it has some pros and cons. All we have left is to hope that the pros outweigh the cons, right?

1. Packed with protein

It goes without saying that meats are protein powerhouses. It’s an essential nutrient that boosts your pet’s immune system. Without protein, your cat would fall ill quickly.

She’d drop weight heavily, her immune system would weaken, and that would only be the beginning of her troubles. A host of illnesses would strike her in no time. Moreover, she’d lose her fur and be at high risk for skin diseases.

Protein is also one of the main sources of felines’ energy. If your furball has been lacking the liveliness she usually has, she might be in need of some bonus protein.

Your cat needs regular meat intake, especially high-quality foods like beef and duck meat, to ensure sufficient muscle mass and strong bones. She wants to jump around more and scale the highest tree, right?

However, something’s stopping her. She may not be strong enough. So what are you going to do? Throw in some more protein, that’s what!

But be careful. Although protein can also be found in some veggies such as cauliflower, it’s a good adequate enough to serve as a meat replacement. By all means, give it as an addition to her diet, but not the main course.

Felines significantly benefit from the protein that’s found in animal-based products. Remember, they’re obligate carnivores, not herbivores.

2. Vitamins and minerals

Apart from the essential protein, raw beef offers a wide range of vitamins and minerals as well. These nutritional benefits are enough to convince us that cats can eat raw beef.

What is it that makes this meat so healthy? Vitamins such as vitamin C, B, D, B12, and others are present in raw beef. So, this tasty treat isn’t just that – it’s good for your feline friend too!

These vitamins can make your cat’s life easier, quite literally. For instance, vitamin C is ascribed to the repair of all bodily tissue, as well as forming collagen, which does a great deal for your cat’s bones. Moreover, it helps in the absorption of iron that’s also present in raw beef.

As for the B vitamins, they’re known to be the building blocks of a healthy body. They’re involved in all sorts of body functions. These nutrients help your cat’s body function normally and stay healthy, and directly impact her metabolism and brain function.

The rest of the vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium found in beef intertwine and work together.

Vitamins and minerals help keep your feline’s immune system in peak condition and boost her energy levels. Together, they assist in fighting off various diseases and infections. Essentially, they’re the reason you sleep soundly at night knowing your pet’s safe and healthy.

Can raw beef be dangerous for cats to eat?

This is the least likable part. No one wants to hear how something can possibly put your beloved pet in danger.

However, this is a reality. Unfortunately, raw beef doesn’t only have the good stuff that can benefit your feline. It also has a slightly tricky side to it. This includes potential dangers and diseases that can be carried through raw meat.

Now, you’d think that raw meat is great to include in your cat’s diet. Well, you’re both right and wrong. Domesticated cats have a bit weaker immune system than their wild cousins. Therefore, they’re not that used to eating raw beef.

However, she might’ve grabbed a quick bite off your kitchen counter while you were preparing dinner. Is there something to worry about?

1. Tough to digest

For a pet that hasn’t been introduced to raw meat before, this could pose a potential struggle. Raw meat isn’t easy to digest.

But you must be thinking: “Since cats are carnivores, shouldn’t they be totally fine eating raw beef!?” That’s what you’re wondering, can cats eat raw beef, right? Unfortunately, not everything goes in their favor. Even something as nutritional as meat can give your pet a hard time sometimes.

If it’s her first time eating raw beef, she may experience some unease. Her stomach may have a hard time trying to break down the raw flesh. It can possibly cause vomiting, diarrhea, as well as abdominal pain. This feeling should pass quickly, but keep an eye on her.

2. Disease carrier

As if that stomach upset wasn’t scary enough, raw beef can cause other health issues. You never expected this much trouble to emerge out of a simple piece of meat, huh?

Unfortunately, it’s known to transmit certain disease-carrying bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, and many other pathogens. All of these can make your pet’s life a living hell.

That’s why it’s important you buy approved raw beef that’s undergone all the health tests. Unfortunately, that’s usually a very expensive treat. Therefore, it might be best if your cat sticks to plainly cooked meat or kibble.

3. What about the fat content?

As if those bacteria and diseases weren’t enough to dampen your enthusiasm, raw beef has something else up its sleeve.

Unfortunately for your cat, it’s high in fats. You must wonder how can that be a bad thing since felines need fat. Well, you’re right. But the thing is that cats need unsaturated, healthy fats that can give them a lot of benefits.

On the other hand, their diets shouldn’t consist of highly saturated, unhealthy ones. These fats tend to make their life a lot harder.

For instance, she can get obese just by eating too much fat. This wouldn’t be a serious problem if the weight didn’t put additional strain on your cat’s joints, which could easily lead to arthritis.

Moreover, saturated lipids are known to raise blood cholesterol levels. Therefore, your pet would be more prone to blood clotting, strokes, and heart diseases.

Can cats eat cooked beef?

Definitely! This would be an amazing dish for our four-legged companions. She’d be head over heels for you! Cooked beef is a great source of protein and other nutritional benefits. It doesn’t pose the danger raw beef does.

Cats can eat cooked beef because high temperatures kill off any bacteria or germs present. Therefore, we’d say that cats can definitely eat cooked beef. There’s just one thing you should be aware of.

Usually, human meat dishes are cooked with various spices and seasonings. These are all, unfortunately, off-limits for felines. Cats cannot digest them well and some of them are even toxic.

For example, Allium crops such as garlic, onion, leeks, and chives are extremely dangerous to cats. All members of the Allium family of plants tend to destroy the red blood cells in a cat’s body, causing anemia.

Also, steer clear of salt, black pepper, and other seasonings. Apart from avoiding potential salt toxicity or other food poisonings, your kitto finds plain meat much tastier! And speaking of salt toxicity…

Salt toxicity

To our great sadness, cooked beef contains high amounts of salt. It’s really common in store-bought products, not to mention when we prepare meats ourselves at home.

Salt doesn’t only give flavor to the food, it also helps in preserving food and prolongs its life. However, it might just shorten your cat’s.

Sodium is poisonous to felines in certain doses, so they shouldn’t ever indulge in it. Cats only require 21 mg of salt daily, which they get in their cat food already, so it doesn’t take much for her to overdose.

Now, if your furry companion ate a salted pretzel, she should be fine. But what happens when she has too much salt?

If she has a bit of salt on one occasion, it shouldn’t pose a serious threat to her health. But a serious overdose or regular intake of high levels of salt, she will likely experience dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms may include diarrhea and abdominal pain.

In more severe cases, tremors, seizures, and coma may occur. If this is the case, seek urgent veterinary attention.

Bottom line

You wanted to find out if cats can eat raw beef, and I hope I’ve clarified it. While there are certainly benefits to this red meat, there are also a few disadvantages.

For instance, it’s nutritionally packed with protein, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. But unfortunately, bad stuff could be in there too – potential diseases, bacteria, and other pathogens. Not to mention how tough it is to chow down on raw beef!

She’s been getting bored with her regular cat food (as if there’s anything wrong with it) for quite some time. Whenever she sees you preparing a turkey sandwich or a turkey breast bruschetta she gets giddy and greedy.

Honestly, the only thing stopping her from snatching that bite right out of your mouth has to be the look of utter despair you’re giving her. “Please, just this one time, let me have my sandwich in peace!”

But, she’s already tapping her little paws getting ready to nibble on something that might cause her harm. Don’t worry, there’s nothing wrong with making sure your furry friend’s getting the crème de la crème of foods.

And there’s nothing wrong with doing an occasional Google search to check whether she can eat turkey, chicken, or pretty much anything else she sets her little heart on. So, can cats eat turkey?

According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), cats can eat turkey with pretty much no repercussions. Not only that, but turkey happens to be rich in protein, minerals, and vitamins that can benefit your furry friend.

But… There always seems to be a but somewhere in there when you’re trying to feed your cat something that shouldn’t be a regular part of a cat’s diet. Here’s everything you need to know about cats, turkeys, and making tempting turkey tidbits for your favorite furry friend.

What’s the deal with cats and turkey?

So, cats can eat turkey, right? Here’s the thing, certain human foods aren’t gentle on a cat’s tummy. That’s because they aren’t meant to be a regular part of their diet. Fruits, veggies, and grains might be great for you, but they’re pretty rough on your cat’s digestive system.

How’s that possible? Everything we know about fruits, veggies, and grains tells us that these tasty treats can’t have a negative impact on your furry friend. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, and fatty acids.

But, your cat’s digestive system happens to be a lot different from yours. Her digestive system doesn’t contain the enzymes that are necessary to break down and process most of the foods you eat on a regular basis.

You see, cats are obligate carnivores. They require a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diets in order to survive.

They’re wild animals in their nature. Their digestive systems are equipped with everything they need for the type of diet they require (which is pretty much Keto). That’s where the tempting turkey meat steps in and steals the show.

Your furry friend does get most of her nutrients from carefully crafted cat food and cat treats. But, there’s pretty much no harm in spicing things up with an occasional turkey tidbit. Turkey meat can benefit your cat’s health, but only when served moderately.

Maybe you’re looking for something else? Something a bit more detailed? Keep on reading to learn exactly what we mean when we say your cat can eat turkey but only in moderation.

What’s so good about turkey?

Your cat’s smile when you agree to let her have a taste? Her scrunched-up snout when she catches a whiff of roasted turkey meat coming from the kitchen? Her wide-opened eyes when she’s trying to decide between white meat and dark meat?

Yes, but there’s more! Turkey happens to be rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, and fatty acids. What’s even more important, these nutrients are sourced from an animal (a turkey, duh). So, they’re even more beneficial to your furry friend.

Protein, one of (if not) the most important nutrients your cat needs, provides her with energy and maintains the health of her digestive system, nervous system, and respiratory system. When she doesn’t consume enough protein she’s at risk of experiencing health problems.

Weight loss, muscle loss, weakness, lethargy, incoordination, digestion problems, and respiratory problems are only some of them. But, an occasional turkey tidbit should be able to provide your cat with almost 30 grams of protein.

On the other hand, your cat also needs more amino acids than most humans do. Certain amino acids help her build blocks of muscles and fuel her body. Turkey contains a lot of those amino acids. And, the most important one happens to be taurine.

Taurine is ESSENTIAL for your cat’s health. Taurine helps with her vision, improves her digestion, maintains proper function of the heart, ensures normal pregnancy and fetal development, and establishes a healthy immune system. Quite a handy little thing, don’t you think?!

What’s so bad about turkey?

Cats can eat turkey, but… There are certain things you need to take into consideration before you run to the nearest Trader Joe’s to get a bunch of turkey legs for your slow cooker (and your fast eater).

First things first, raw turkey meat can be seen as a part of your cat’s natural diet. A wild cat would eat an entire turkey without batting an eye. But, a domesticated cat (we’re looking at you, Mrs. McFluffer) wouldn’t be able to do that without any repercussions.

Raw meat (especially when we’re talking about poultry) comes with a bunch of bacteria and parasites. These pesky passengers typically come in the shape of salmonella, e.coli, or trichinella. They can cause serious health issues for your cat.

We can’t overlook the fact that some cat owners believe raw meat belongs to a cat’s natural diet. But, it’s better to stay on the safe side.

On the other hand, turkey (while typically seen as lean meat) does contain a considerable amount of fat. There’s nothing wrong with a bit of fat here and there. But, it’s better to avoid feeding your cat turkey skin and other fatty turkey parts.

You should also avoid feeding your cat turkey that’s been fried in deep oil, turkey deli meat, and ground turkey. Trust me, too much fat can lead to serious gastrointestinal and digestive problems. Weight gain, obesity, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, and pancreatitis don’t sound all that fun, do they?

Last but not least, turkey bones are a big red flag. Raw turkey bones have the same problem with bacteria and parasites but they’re harder and sturdier than cooked ones. Cooked turkey bones are brittle, can easily break off, and cause a splinter to get stuck in your cat’s mouth or throat.

Can cats eat raw turkey?

Yes and no! As mentioned a couple of paragraphs ago, feeding raw meat to your cat has been up for debate for quite some time. Whether you’re the team for or the team against, there are a couple of things to take into consideration when making your final decision.

First things first, consult with your vet before feeding raw turkey (or any other raw meat) to your feline friend. Some felines have a sensitive digestive system. They might have a harder time digesting the bacteria, parasites, and other pesky passengers.

Secondly, when you notice signs of sickness such as weakness, loss of appetite, diarrhea that contains blood or mucus, excessive salivation, and thirst, contact your vet. Last but not least, don’t feed raw turkey (or any other raw meat) to your cat that’s dealing with other health problems.

What about deli turkey?

Deli turkey meat (or even lunch meat) shouldn’t be a regular part of your cat’s diet. This particular product, while popular among humans, does contain a bunch of fat, salt, and other seasonings which could harm your cat’s health.

What are we referring to when we say “deli meat?” It’s a processed meat product typically made from turkey breast that has been seasoned, cooked, and/or smoked. While deli meat isn’t the worst thing your cat can have in her mouth, it’s better to stick to other cat treats.

Apart from a bunch of fat, salt, and seasoning, deli meat also contain preservatives, additives, and artificial colorings. These things can harm your cat’s health when consumed over a longer period of time. Give her a tiny bite and learn how to say “no” before she tries to meow her way into another one!

Can cats eat cooked turkey?

Yes, cats can eat cooked turkey! Small pieces of plain, cooked turkey breast might be one of the best snacks your cat can have after she wakes up from her afternoon nap. It’s packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Make sure you only feed her boneless, cooked turkey meat. Trust me, you don’t want her to choke on a rogue bone splinter. Other than that, feel free to surprise her with an occasional turkey tidbit.

Can cats eat ground turkey?

Yes and no! Cats can eat ground turkey, but that doesn’t mean that they should it ground turkey every single day. A bite or two shouldn’t cause them any harm. But, anything more than that could send them running to their litterbox.

Here’s the thing, ground meat contains a lot more fat than a regular chunk of meat. While fat isn’t harmful to cats when consumed in moderation, it becomes harmful when it’s consumed regularly over a longer period of time.

What about turkey ham?

No, turkey ham shouldn’t be a regular part of your cat’s diet. A bite or two shouldn’t be the reason for you to contact your vet. But, anything more than that might leave your cat with gnarly gastrointestinal problems.

Turkey ham contains a lot of fat, salt, seasonings, preservatives, nitrates, and other not-so-cat-friendly ingredients. Let’s just say, you’re better off keeping a healthy snack under your sleeve for those not-so-rare occasions when your cat demands to taste whatever you’re eating at the moment.

What about turkey breast slices?

Yes and no, again! Homemade turkey breast slices? ABSOLUTELY! Commercially available turkey breast slices? You might want to skip out on those. They contain a bunch of fat, salt, seasonings, and preservatives.

Sure, cats can eat turkey breast slices without experiencing adverse reactions. But, when you make them from scratch they can actually make for a healthy treat.

Can cats eat turkey liver?

Yes, as long as they don’t eat too much! Turkey liver contains a bunch of vitamin A (which is great). But, consuming too much liver can lead to vitamin A toxicosis when you’re not careful.

You might want to keep an eye out for signs of weakness, weight loss, hair loss, rough and dry skin, as well as muscle and bone soreness. She would need to consume A LOT of turkey liver and giblets to experience any of these symptoms. But, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Can cats eat turkey bones?

Yes and no! As mentioned a couple of paragraphs ago, cats should generally avoid eating turkey bones as they can become a choking hazard.

Raw turkey bones are harder than cooked ones, but they contain bacteria and parasites that can cause serious harm to your cat’s health. On the other hand, cooked turkey bones don’t contain bacteria and parasites, but they’re brittle and they can get stuck in your cat’s throat.

Can cast eat Thanksgiving turkey?

No, cats can eat Thanksgiving turkey! Unless you’re planning on making a Thanksgiving turkey without any fat, salt, seasonings, stuffing, and gravy, you might want to let your furry friend sit this one out.

Unfortunately, Thanksgiving turkey contains too many harmful ingredients (onion, garlic?!) to be considered safe for your cat. You’re much better off feeding your cat with a turkey breast slice or even a piece of turkey liver.

It goes without saying that there’s a special bond that a feline shares with her bowl of food. Especially if it’s something fresh, yummy, and meaty, of course.

It’s in their nature to survive and thrive off of animal-based products. Still, as cat parents, we always have our doubts when introducing new foods into our pets’ diets. We’re constantly worrying about how are their stomachs going to take this.

It’s true, we’ve spoiled them and they’re nothing like their cousins out in the wild. My cat brings me a leaf as a catch for God’s sake! Nevertheless, I still adore her full time but I mean, come on.

So, it’s only logical that we’re their only providers and caregivers so we got to make sure we do it the best way possible. It also includes picking out the best piece of meat to feed our kittens.

This makes us wonder can cats eat raw pork? We automatically start to think of all the possible pros and cons that could be out there. It is well known that pork isn’t the best and healthiest choice for humans either, but it still makes your mouth water.

Who are we then to blame our carnivore friends for liking it as well? Moreover, at least they’re not conscious that it’s bad for them while we keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again.

Can cats eat raw pork safely?

Cooked, boiled, and fried pork is very different from its raw form. Pork is widely used in many dishes and to get various products, such as bacon.

If your cat was out in the wild, she would definitely be feasting on some raw meat. However, she’s actually nowhere near the wilderness. The only wild thing she gets to experience is stalking squirrels and birds. If she finds a mouse, she’s most likely to run away than catch it, but oh well.

Therefore, while wild cats are used to raw foods, our pet cats certainly aren’t. Unless you’ve been feeding her raw for a while now.

I’m sure no feline would really reject the offer of raw pork, but just how smart would that decision be? You know how food can sometimes make us feel.

For example that popcorn and potato chips, you had the other day even though you knew you shouldn’t? Yeah, you just couldn’t resist.

Well, how could you then take away from them something they find so delicious? Can cats eat raw pork at all? I’ll help you decide by presenting to you all the pros and cons of this meat.

When you hear what this meaty treat has to offer your feline, I’m sure you’ll be happy. But then, you also have to hear the not-so-good news.

Health advantages

When you think of a cat, you instantly think of a carnivore. They have strong claws and big, sharp teeth for a reason. And it’s because they’re made for cutting through the meat.

They can’t chew down on vegetables as well as they chew the flesh. Therefore, meat is their natural choice of food and something they just can’t live without.

When you see it from that side, raw pork comes in actually beneficial to cats. If it comes from an organic farm, then it could be a great treat for your cat.

Can cats eat raw pork and benefit from it? They sure can! Just like any meat, pork is a great way to fill up that much-needed protein.

A chock-full of protein

Felines can’t live without meat, whether it be chicken or duck. But can they live without raw pork? Well honestly, they can.

But don’t ignore the fact that it’s packed with protein, a nutrient that’s essential to your cat’s growth and development. It offers her everything she needs to grow up healthy and strong.

It’s also one of the two primary sources of energy. Protein is what fuels your feline’s body and keeps her warm on cold winter nights. Well, it’s her fur as well.

But if it wasn’t for this magnificent nutrient, her fur wouldn’t be so thick and beautiful and her skin wouldn’t be so shiny and elastic as well.

Pork, and meat in general, do so many great things for your cat that you can’t even count on all ten fingers. However, we’re only mentioning a few because we have to get to the other side of it as well.

Other nutrients

Just like chicken liver, pork is a great source of other nutrients, such as minerals and vitamins. Some of the vitamins that can be found in pork are vitamin C, B12, B6, and many more. All of these play a huge role in your cat’s body and health.

They boost her overall immune system, help with digestion, and manage to prevent various diseases and fight off serious infections.

Calcium and vitamin D work as a pair to keep her bones strong and healthy. Other minerals that can be found in pork include magnesium and iron as well.

These help with digestive problems, such as constipation and diarrhea. Other than that, iron helps regulate body temperature.

Now for the big guns. Amino acids and omega-3 fatty acids are really game-changer for your pet. They help keep your feline’s health in check all the time.

If she’s not getting enough of omega-3 fatty acids, throw in some pork or fish, such as mackerel. It’s bound to boost your pet with energy and power. These fatty acids improve her health and look after her heart, lungs, and immune system.

The downsides

Unfortunately, raw pork isn’t always the best choice for your cat. While cooked pork meat is relatively safe for her to eat, raw pork can pose a set of dangers to your feline. It’s a never-ending debate, but for the sake of your cat’s health and your own sanity, make sure to cook it.

Cooked or well-prepared meat poses no danger to cats whereas raw one just might. Uncooked pork is known to carry certain diseases, such as e.coli, salmonella, and others.

This isn’t the best-case scenario, so you’d definitely want to keep safe rather than sorry. Cooking pork in high heat can kill off any germs or bacteria present.

Next to bacteria, raw pork is packed with fats. When you see all that grease, you just can’t help but think of the highly saturated fats.

These are known to raise cholesterol levels in the blood and lead to various health issues. So, next time when you ask yourself can cats eat raw pork, think of these fats.

Even though it doesn’t look like it, the fat content can cause serious damage. High levels of fat create blood clots and lead to different heart diseases and strokes.

Can cats eat raw pork because of salt and seasonings?

Besides the fat and bacteria, pork has another downside to it. It has a high salt content that can be quite detrimental to felines.

Actually, it’s poisonous to cats and could cause severe damage. It won’t happen the second she takes a bite of pork or beef, but keep in mind larger quantities could do just that.

The same can be said about seasonings, such as garlic, onions, and chives. These are common in a combination with meat.

Unfortunately, they also pose a great threat to your cat. They’re extremely toxic to felines because they destroy their red blood cells which leads them to anemia.

Again, cooking pork would be the best option. The process could eventually help get rid of any bacteria, as well as unnecessary amounts of salt and any possible traces of seasonings.

Stay away from any sauces as well. They’re usually just a mixture of everything cats shouldn’t eat.

But, someone’s gotta make sure her voraciousness doesn’t end on a bad note. How can you tell her off when she gives you that look!? She just wants to munch on a chicken wing, maybe spice things up with a drumstick or two… “Oh, there’s even a chicken neck!”

You have to draw the line somewhere before she singlehandedly destroys her entire digestive system. You didn’t spend hundreds of dollars on carefully crafted cat food to have her spend the rest of the day in her litter box because she accidentally ate something she shouldn’t have.

Don’t worry, you made the right call when you decided to hop online and look up whether cats can eat chicken bones. According to our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), chicken bones aren’t toxic to cats.

They’re a great source of calcium, an essential nutrient in your cat’s diet. And they’re a great ally in keeping your cat’s bones, skin, and fur happy and healthy.

But, before you and your furry friend head out to KFC for a bucket of celebratory chicken wings, there are a couple of things you should consider. Let’s just say that your question requires a better explanation than a simple yes or no.

So, put your cat’s meows of desperation aside and keep on reading to learn everything you need to know on this matter. Can cats eat cooked chicken bones? Can cats eat raw chicken bones? What are the health benefits of feeding chicken bones to your cat?

So, can cats eat chicken bones?

As a pet parent, you’ve probably heard the famous “cats are obligate carnivores” line a million times before. You’re aware that cats require a specific diet that consists of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients to survive.

They come from an ancient line of hunters and it’s only natural that they get most of their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from other animals. They’re completely safe feeding off of different types of meat, but they do have their favorites… We’re talking about birds, of course!

You might be thinking “but, only wild cats do such things.” Wild cats are those typically associated with hunting and scoffing down every single part of their prey, leaving just a couple of feathers behind. But, domesticated cats have the same instincts.

Don’t tell me that Ms. McFluffer has never left dead birds at your doorstep as a token of her appreciation!? Bones, feathers, guts, and other seemingly life-threatening parts of other animals don’t seem to bother her as much as you would think.

But, there’s one big difference between eating the bones of the freshly caught prey and eating the bones of leftover chicken. Cats can eat raw chicken bones with pretty much no repercussions, but we can’t say the same for cooked chicken bones.

What’s the deal with cooked chicken bones?

You weren’t expecting this answer to your “can cats eat chicken bones” question, now were you? Most pet parents assume their furry friends are much better off eating cat food, cat treat, and an occasional properly cooked meat treat.

We’re putting the emphasis on properly cooked because it’s incredibly important to underline the risks of feeding raw foods (specifically raw meat) to your cat. Bacteria and parasites, nausea and bloatedness, digestive problems… None of that sounds fun.

But, cooked chicken bones are much more dangerous for your cat than raw chicken bones. Oh, the irony! As it turns out, cooked chicken bones become brittle and can cause blockages in your cat’s mouth and esophagus. And, they can contain traces of toxic seasonings and additives.

Cooked chicken bones aren’t the worst things your furry friend can put into her mouth. But, they might make you wonder whether cats can or even should eat chicken bones. Well, there’s nothing left to do but to figure out the answer to that question together.

1. They can become a choking hazard

What’s so bad about cooked chicken bones? Shouldn’t they be better for our furry friends? Unfortunately, chicken bones tend to change their composition when they go through the cooking process.

They become soft, brittle, and easily lodged in between your cat’s teeth. They easily snap and break off into sharp pieces and splinters that can cause blockages in your cat’s throat and esophagus.

And, let’s not forget about the fact that they can also easily cause cuts and irritations once they go through your cat’s digestive tract and arrive in your cat’s stomach.

It’s safe to say that these crunchy chicken treats aren’t the best choice for your curious creature. It’s better to stay on the safe side and stick to “the ultimate bribe” – commercially available chicken treats.

2. They can contain harmful ingredients

Let’s say you’re making mouth-watering rotisserie chicken for lunch. Your four-legged friend doesn’t want to stop meowing and begging until you agree to let her have a taste. You’re forced to tell her no because you know she isn’t allowed to consume garlic, olive oil, and other seasonings.

And that’s the same reason you should refuse her when she starts begging you for a chicken bone. I know sharing is caring, but not in this case.

Cooked chicken bones can contain ingredients that can cause digestive issues, stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and even constipation.

Sure, nibbling on smaller bones that haven’t been cooked with a bunch of other ingredients shouldn’t send your furry friend to the emergency animal center. But, it’s better to steer clear of the culprit altogether.

What to do when your cat eats a cooked chicken bone?

“My cat ate chicken bones! I feed my cat the best cat food and cat treats but she’s always hungry for more. She managed to sneak into the kitchen and snatch a couple of cooked chicken bones that were supposed to go into my chicken broth. What should I do!?”

Don’t worry, you’re not the first pet parent to go through something similar. When your feline friend decides to go against what’s right and get herself in trouble, it’s your responsibility to stay calm and collected, and take care of the situation.

First things first, make sure she doesn’t have any bone chunks or splinters stuck inside of her mouth. You can gently run your finger across the inside of her mouth or open her mouth wide enough to get a clear assessment of what’s going on.

After you’ve made sure she isn’t choking, contact your vet and keep him up to date with the situation in case of complications.

Last but not least, observe her behavior for the next couple of days. Make sure that the bone chunks and splinters aren’t causing her harm as they’re moving through her gastrointestinal tract.

Look for symptoms such as bloating, bloody stool, lethargy, weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea. And, you guessed it, keep those cooked chicken bones away from your cat’s reach in the future!

And how about raw chicken bones?

Let’s move away from the “your cat might die if she eats this” topics, shall we? Raw chicken bones are an excellent cat treat because they’re packed with vitamins and minerals, and they bring heaps of nutritional and health benefits to the table.

You might not be able to go to KFC with your furry friend. But, the two of you might want to hit the nearest butcher and ask for some raw chicken bones. Before you take off, though, take a look at some of the benefits of feeding raw chicken bones to your cat.

1. They’re rich in vitamins and minerals

Calcium, calcium, and more calcium! You can’t argue with the fact that your feline friend gets the most benefits from this marvelous mineral. But, raw chicken bones don’t come without a bunch of other minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and phosphorous.

Minerals play an essential role in your cat’s immune system, digestive system, and nervous system. Without them, your cat’s metabolism wouldn’t be able to function properly.

Additionally, the bone marrow that’s contained within the raw chicken bone provides your cat with vitamins A, B2, and B12. Most of these nutrients lose their power when they go through the cooking process. That’s another reason you should opt for raw chicken bones instead of cooked ones.

2. They’re packed with nutritional and health benefits

When you decided to look up whether cats can eat chicken bones, you didn’t think you’d end up reading about the nutritional and health benefits of raw chicken bones, did you?

While these tasty treats might gross you out, they’re incredibly important in your cat’s diet. Eating a raw chicken bone or two can help your furry friend maintain the health of her own bones, muscles, and fur.

They’re great for her dental health and dental hygiene (contrary to popular belief). The more she chews on raw chicken bones, the more she strengthens the top coat of her teeth. And gets rid of any food residue or plaque buildup.

Who doesn’t love a good win-win situation?

What to look out for when feeding raw chicken bones to your cat

Your four-legged friend can’t seem to have the good without the bad, can she? Cats can eat raw chicken bones without any repercussions, but…

That doesn’t mean that you should just sit back and let her scoff down any raw chicken bones she can get her paws on. First things first, raw chicken bones can contain parasites and bacteria (salmonella or campylobacter) that can cause serious harm to your cat.

Cats with sensitive digestive systems are more prone to getting these sorts of infections, but it’s better to err on the safe side. Use only reputable meat suppliers, consult with your vet, and keep a close eye on your cat whenever you’re feeding her raw chicken bones or any other type of raw foods.

Also, make sure to check for bone shards and splinters after she visits her litter box. And of course, be on the lookout for any signs of digestive problems.

Cats can eat chicken bones, but…

That doesn’t mean that they should. If you’re planning on sharing a plate of chicken with a side of chicken bones with your furry friend, make sure to consult with your vet beforehand.

Cooked chicken bones don’t make for the best cat treat because they can break and splinter, becoming a choking hazard. But don’t worry, raw chicken bones are the way to go!

They’re packed with vitamins and minerals, and they bring a bunch of nutritional and health benefits to your cat’s table. More importantly, they’re much more gentle on your cat’s mouth and throat.

Now that you think about it, you haven’t seen that many cans of cat food with the “pork” label on them, have you? Most cat foods feature chicken, turkey, beef, salmon, and even an occasional tuna.

Pork meat doesn’t seem to make the cut, but have you ever wondered why? Don’t worry, there’s nothing wrong with feeding pork to your furry friend every now and then.

According to our friends over at the ASPCA, cats can eat pork without experiencing any adverse reactions. It’s an excellent choice for most cats because it contains heaps of protein, vitamins, and minerals.

And it’s great for cats with sensitive stomachs because it’s easy to digest. But… There’s always a but when it comes to feeding your cat anything that isn’t supposed to be a regular part of her diet.

While cats can certainly enjoy pork meat more often than some other types of meat, they still shouldn’t enjoy it every single day. Pork meat and other pork products can be pretty salty and fatty, leading to health issues in the long run.

Your feline friend can eat pork as an occasional treat, but you should consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet. What are the benefits of feeding pork to your cat? What are the drawbacks? Here’s what you need to know.

So, can cats eat pork?

Cats are obligate carnivores. They require heaps of meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients in their diet in order to survive.

They don’t require fruits, veggies, and nuts to keep them happy and healthy. And they typically get their vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from other animals (and carefully crafted cat food).

So, pork ticks all the boxes which can only mean one thing: cats can eat pork! While that’s a great reason to celebrate with your four-legged friend, you might want to hold on for one moment. Pork can be an excellent occasional treat, but it can’t (and shouldn’t) be a regular part of your cat’s diet.

The main concern with feeding pork to your cat on more than one occasion has to be the fat content. Your cat needs a bit of fat here and there to keep her fur healthy and shiny, but she certainly doesn’t need the amount she would get from an average pork chop.

Let’s just say that the relationship between pork and your cat can only be described as a complicated one. “You can’t have the good without the bad”, as someone once said. But, that’s not a reason for desperation because your cat can still have an occasional meaty morsel.

What’s good about feeding pork to your cat?

Grab your furry friend and start preparing pork chops and pork loins for your Sunday BBQ! While there are a couple of concerns with feeding pork meat to your cat, there’s no reason why she shouldn’t be allowed to attend your brunch.

As mentioned in one of the previous paragraphs, cats are carnivores. While domestic cats might not be able to hunt pigs (your precious purrincess certainly isn’t), they’re very much able to hunt other animals and feast on their meat.

And pork happens to be packed with a bunch of essential nutrients (and especially essential amino acids) that can benefit your cat’s health. We’re talking about protein, taurine, thiamine, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6. And, as pet parents, we all know how vital these nutrients are.

Let’s just say that your furry friend needs all the protein she can get. She turns protein into energy and uses it to build blocks of muscles and fuel her bodily processes. While pork isn’t necessarily the healthiest option, it’s certainly one that brings quite a lot of protein to the table.

And as for the taurine, thiamine, and other vitamins, they play such an important role in the health of her digestive system and digestive tract, her immune system, and her nervous system. Give her a bite out of that paw-licking pork roast and let the vitamins do their thing.

Don’t forget that most commercial cat foods contain everything your furry friend needs to lead a happy and healthy life. But, it doesn’t hurt to throw in a couple of meaty morsels to bring out that smile on her face.

Enough about the benefits of pork, let’s move on to things you need to be careful with when you’re deciding whether you should feed this mouth-watering meat to your cat.

What’s bad about feeding pork to your cat?

Right off the bat, don’t be alarmed when you read about the potential risks of feeding pork to your four-legged friend. You can always consult with your vet before making any significant changes to your cat’s diet, and you can always go for an occasional treat rather than an entire meal.

So, what’s so bad about feeding pork to your cat? Can cats even eat pork with no repercussions? Most healthy, adult cats can eat pork without experiencing any adverse reactions. But, that doesn’t mean that you should go ahead and feed your cat pork every single day.

First things first, pork meat contains high levels of fat. That’s one of the reasons why you won’t find it in most commercially available cat food that often. Consuming too much fat can leave your cat with digestive issues, weight gain, obesity, and diabetes.

Not to mention that too much fat can block your cat’s arteries and cause serious health problems!

On the other hand, pork meat also contains high levels of sodium. Your cat does need some sodium in her system, but too much sodium can lead to something called sodium toxicity (or sodium poisoning).

Vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, incoordination, excessive thirst or urination… Trust me, you don’t want your feline friend expiring any of those symptoms. And she might even end up needing an emergency vet visit.

Last but not least, commercially available pork meat can contain a bunch of seasoning, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives that don’t belong in the feline diet. And don’t even get me started on the pork allergy.

Sure, cats can eat pork, but you need to make sure you’re taking the necessary precautions before adding these meaty morsels into your cat’s diet.

What to consider when you’re feeding pork to your cat?

Before you go ahead and set up a plate for your four-legged friend, you might want to take a look at a couple of things you can do to ensure your cat’s safety. While there’s nothing wrong with giving her a bite or two straight off the BBQ, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

So, before you feed pork to your cat make sure you remove the bones. We’re aware that your cat might want to munch on them throughout the day, push them around, and play with them. But, pork bones (and other bones) can become a choking hazard and we’re trying to avoid putting your cat in danger.

On the other hand, you should also make sure you cook the pork properly before feeding it to your cat. There’s quite a debate between cat owners on whether or not cats should eat raw meat, but there’s no denying that raw pork doesn’t come without a set of risks.

Salmonella, trichinella, e.coli… Those are only some of the things that properly cooked pork doesn’t contain. Even more so, when you cook your cat’s meat properly you can make sure you don’t add any harmful seasonings.

Let’s not forget about the main rule of feeding human foods to your cat. “Everything in moderation”, even when we’re talking about foods that are generally safe for feline consumption.

Your feline is much better off with a couple of bites of pork, rather than an overload that might hurt her tummy. And, you can always consult with your vet and follow his advice to a tee to ensure your cat’s safety.

Can kittens eat pork?

Yes, but also no. Kittens shouldn’t eat anything other than their mother’s milk. Their digestive system isn’t equipped to break down and process pretty much anything else, and it certainly isn’t equipped to process fatty meats.

So, you shouldn’t feed your kitten pork unless it’s already grown enough to have a bite or two with no repercussions. Even then, you shouldn’t feed your kitten anything before consulting with your vet and getting a green light.

Can cats eat raw pork?

And this is the debate we mentioned a couple of paragraphs ago. As a pet parent, you’re probably aware that cats are carnivores. They have a history of hunting down other animals, devouring them raw, and thriving on animal protein and animal-sourced nutrients.

It’s only natural to assume nothing bad could happen from a couple of bites of raw pork. But… That’s not entirely true. Raw pork meat contains a bunch of bacteria and parasites that can cause harm to your cat’s health. Raw bones can become a choking hazard and even cause an internal injury.

While cats can technically eat raw pork, that doesn’t mean that they should. They’re much better off eating a couple of properly cooked pork meat morsels every now and then. Once again, you can always consult with your vet regarding this matter.

Cats can eat pork, but…

That doesn’t mean that you should let your four-legged friend go ham on pork bacon. Make sure to take the necessary precautions beforehand and enjoy seeing a smile on your cat’s face the moment she realizes she’s allowed to take a bite. Good luck!

You’re probably thinking, Why should I leave my kitto feline out of my lunch plans? It is meat, after all, and cats are supposed to consume it, right?

Well, perhaps you aren’t aware of all the bad stuff this type of food contains. It’s not the safest and most healthy option for humans, let alone for our furry friends.

However, we tend to give in to the temptation of feeding our pets human foods. Sometimes, this can be a great way to add nutrients to their diet. Other times, not so much.

Human foods often pose a certain threat to cats’ health. It’s not something entirely uncalled-for, however.

We know that feeding our furballs anything other than cat food can come at a risk. Their digestive system is sometimes unable to break down the ingredients we have no problem devouring.

Can cats eat chorizo safely?

This shouldn’t even be a debate because there’s more harm than good when it comes to cured and processed meats like salami and ham. Although these meats contain protein, it isn’t enough to outweigh the negative effects.

You’d think that meat products like these are welcomed in the feline world. It’s a widely known fact that cats are obligate carnivores and rely on animal-based products.

There is a big BUT here. Highly processed meat usually loses its nutritional value by the time the product’s finished.

Small quantities aren’t likely to cause immediate harm to your furball. It’s not the end of the world if she grabbed a small, bite-sized piece that fell on the floor.

But it’s certainly not recommended to encourage her to eat it in large quantities as it can lead to an upset stomach. And this is just a mild reaction as opposed to others.

Therefore, if you want to keep your pet safe and healthy, you will avoid chorizo and other cured meats.

What is chorizo made of?

We’ve established that it’s a type of meat, but what kind? This part will likely appeal to your pet because it’s made up of ground pork.

However, there’s more to this sausage than what meets the eye. Unfortunately, meat isn’t the only thing incorporated into this food.

Chorizo has lots of additives and preservatives that help enhance the flavor and help to keep the product fresh on the shelves for as long as possible. It’s because of this that processed meat is so affordable and delicious.

Although a cat’s diet should mainly consist of meat, this type isn’t the best possible choice for them. The seasonings and various spices can be awfully detrimental to their health.

1. Pork as a protein source

Let’s dive into some of the pros and cons this meat carries. As cat owners, we want all the best for them.

Protein is an essential nutrient found in animal-based foods. It’s important for developing strong and healthy bones and for felines to develop fully.

It’s also an amazing energy source and an immune booster, fueling a cat’s body in every sense. Without it, your pet would quickly fall sick.

However, protein isn’t the only nutrient found in pork.

2. High-fat content

Unfortunately, chorizo is packed with salt and has higher amounts of fat than duck meat, for instance. Additionally, it’s considered a calorie-dense food, which is not fit for your cat’s diet.

Small portions of it on the odd occasion are fine but don’t overdo it. High-fat content food is detrimental to your pet’s health in the long run.

Pork meat, if consumed daily, can raise your pet’s blood cholesterol levels, which leads to a series of unfortunate outcomes. It includes an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The fatty deposits could eventually block the arteries, preventing critical blood flow.

Not to mention the obesity that comes with feeding your cat high-fat foods like these. Excess weight will put additional stress on her joints and be the cause of inflammation.

3. Carbs and calories

Next to fat, carbs and calories are also abundant in this chopped and ground pork product.

Carbohydrates are an unnecessary nutrient for felines and don’t hold any value to them. They’re unable to digest carbs properly, which results in a build-up of carbs in their digestive system. All of this, sooner or later, accumulates into fat that adds to your cat’s weight gain.

One of the major problems related to obese cats is the development of diabetes. As if all of these health hazards weren’t enough to deter you from feeding your cat chorizo and salami, there’s also a risk of pancreatitis.

It’s not easy to discover it as the symptoms are usually non-specific, such as lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea. AND these three illnesses (obesity, diabetes, and pancreatitis) often go hand in hand.

4. Salt and preservatives

This is arguably the most troublesome part of processed meats. Although these additions add significant flavor, these same ingredients are quite detrimental to your feline’s health.

Sodium is an essential mineral in the body, but in excessive amounts, it becomes poisonous to felines. Therefore, this cured sausage poses the risk of your pet being subject to salt toxicity.

Although unlikely if she has small quantities every now and then, sodium can accumulate over time in her digestive system and become a disaster. The most common signs of salt poisoning are diarrhea, abdominal pain, vomiting, as well as excessive urination and dehydration.

As for preservatives, they’re not as poisonous, but can be hazardous as well. Although they may be used to preserve the food and stop it from going bad, they don’t prevent it from being bad for cats.

These various additives will have a negative impact on your furry friend’s well-being over time. They don’t hold any nutritional value to her and they’re way off from being a natural part of a cat’s diet.

Some additives and sweeteners are even poisonous to pets, such as xylitol. Thankfully, this chemical compound isn’t found in chorizo, but keep an eye out for any human treats, such as gummy bears.

5. What about spices and seasonings?

Apart from pork fat and high salt content, deli meat contains various spices and seasonings as well.

While these are mainly used to enhance the flavor of the products such as chorizo, prosciutto, and others, they can have less desirable effects on our felines.

Cats aren’t drawn to human spices and condiments; in fact, they’re often deterred by them. Such is the case with black pepper that can be found in these pork sausages.

Now, we know that spices differ from one type of chorizo to another. Unfortunately, they all contain ingredients that are harmful to our fluffy pets.

The difference between Spanish chorizo and Mexican chorizo

Spanish chorizo is uncooked sausage made from chopped-up pork, while Mexican chorizo mostly consists of ground pork.

But the main difference is in the ways these two sausages are produced. For instance, Spanish meat is cured with large amounts of salt and can be eaten uncooked. On the contrary, Mexican ham isn’t cured, but rather fresh, so it needs to be cooked.

Can cats eat chorizo if it’s cooked?

Now, we know felines shouldn’t eat raw meat as it can carry certain diseases such as salmonella. Does that mean cats eat cooked chorizo then?

Well, it’s definitely a better idea than feeding your pet raw chorizo, but you should ask yourself whether she really needs this in her diet.

Moreover, the spices used in these sausages are bound to make your cat ill to a degree. For instance, Spanish chorizo uses paprika to add a sweet and spicy flavor.

We may like this, but our cats certainly won’t. It causes an upset stomach with abdominal pain. If your feline’s had some spiced chorizo, you’ll likely see her nose running and eyes getting puffy and watery.

Mexican chorizo uses red pepper instead of paprika, which is somewhat safer for cats. However, both of these contain poisonous garlic powder.

Garlic – along with the other members of the Allium family like onions, chives, and leeks, for instance – is highly toxic to felines. It destroys feline’s red blood cells, resulting in various types of anemia.

In severe cases, the effect of alliums can be deadly. Therefore, we recommend you skip feeding these spicy pork sausages to your furry friend.

Can cats eat chorizo in the end?

If you’re still somehow wondering whether cats can eat chorizo, the answer is pretty clear: No, cats can’t and shouldn’t eat chorizo.

It’s unlikely your pet will suffer deadly consequences if she steals a nibble, but why risk her health? There are many disadvantages to this food as opposed to the good sides (protein).

The high-fat content is a disaster waiting to happen. Over time, your pet could develop health issues such as obesity, pancreatitis, as well as diabetes.

Next to these dangers, we have the risk of salt poisoning, as well as toxicity caused by garlic, other spices, as well as preservatives and additives. Not to mention that raw meat, such as Spanish chorizo, poses the danger of bacteria and diseases.

Rather leave the chorizo and other sausages to you and your human loved ones, and treat your furbaby to cat-friendly treats.