The idea makes sense on the surface, after all. Cats are natural-born hunters, which means they thrive on fresh meat. So yes, essentially, cats can eat raw meat

But here’s the catch: what’s natural is not always safe or balanced in a domestic setting. So, while you’ve been scrolling for the right answers, we’ve lined them all up for you. For the short answer, cats can eat raw meat, but they shouldn’t. They’re better off with a formulated diet. 

With that, let’s find out if raw cat food is one of the best options or just a bad one. 

Why Do Pet Owners Consider Raw Cat Food?

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they rely solely on the nutrients found in animal tissue to survive. Unlike dogs or humans, they can’t thrive on plant-based proteins, carbohydrates, or healthy fruits and veggies. Their bodies are designed to process animal tissue.

That’s where the consideration for raw pet food for cats comes in. Some pet owners believe that returning to a cat’s natural eating habits can lead to better nutrition and more noticeable health improvements. Here are the potential benefits of raw cat food when served properly:

• Improved Digestion. Cats fed a raw diet often have smaller, firmer, and less smelly stools. That’s because raw meat is highly digestible and doesn’t have any unnecessary fillers. 

• Healthier Skin and Coat. A raw diet is rich in naturally occurring omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, especially when it includes raw chicken, turkey, or oily fish. This improves skin health and coat quality, avoiding some serious skin issues in cats.

• Cleaner Teeth and Better Oral Health. Raw meaty bones can act like natural toothbrushes. Chewing and tearing through raw meat helps scrape off plaque and exercise a cat’s jaws. 

• Stronger Bones and Joints. Raw cat food, especially bones, can contain essential amounts of calcium and phosphorus, minerals that support bone health and development. 

• Increased Energy. Cats on a raw diet often maintain higher and more consistent energy levels. The high amounts of protein without the fillers can improve your cat’s energy. You may notice your cat being more playful and active for longer. 

• Lean Muscle Mass. High-quality animal protein builds lean muscle, and the absence of processed carbs helps reduce fat gain. This leads to a leaner muscle build with significantly less fat.

• Better Hydration. Raw meat contains around 70-75% moisture, much like a cat’s natural prey. This added hydration supports kidney function and the urinary tract. 

Risk and Safety Concerns of Raw Meat for Cats

Feeding raw meat to your cat can offer real benefits, but it can also pose some real risks. If handled incorrectly, raw cat food can be dangerous. Here are the potential risks of raw meat for cats: 

Bacterial Contamination

Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella and E. coli. While cats have highly acidic stomachs that can help destroy pathogens, the risk is still there, and it’s a concern for kittens, seniors, or those with suppressed immune systems. 

Infections can result in severe digestive issues, such as chronic vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Even with thorough preparation, a mistake in the process can be dangerous for overall cat health and nutrition. 

Parasites

Other than bacteria, parasites can also be present in raw meat. It’s prevalent in raw pork, with Trichinella spiralis, Toxoplasma gondii, and many other tapeworms. The only surefire way to eliminate these parasites is through cooking, which raw diets don’t include.

Nutritional Imbalances

While raw meat can provide cats with high amounts of protein, consuming just that will lead to nutritional deficiencies. Cats still need a varied diet to obtain the other necessary nutrients they need to grow and develop. 

Diets that are not completely balanced can have deficiencies, which can lead to long-term health issues and problems with development. 

Bone Hazards

Raw bones can help clean a cat’s teeth and provide natural calcium. However, this comes with its own set of risks. Bones can fracture teeth, puncture gums, or cause choking, resulting in oral and gastrointestinal issues. 

These risks are especially high whenever the bones cats eat are too large or too hard. When a bone gets stuck in the gastrointestinal tract, it could damage the area and cause some serious digestive issues. 

Cross-Contamination

While commercially available raw cat food adheres to a level of safety and cleanliness, improperly preparing the meal at home can pose the risk of cross-contamination. The bacteria within the raw meat can spread throughout your kitchen, from chopping boards to sharp knives. 

This can put everyone at home at risk. Raw meat should be prepared and stored properly. Any simple mistake can be dangerous for everyone. 

Can Raw Meat Make a Cat Sick?

Yes, raw meat can make a cat sick because of the potential risk of bacterial contamination. Common species involved in raw meat include Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

Additionally, the bones with the raw meat can cause choking and serve as intestinal blockages, potentially causing more sickness and disease.

What Raw Meats Can Cats Eat?

If you’re ready to explore raw feeding, take note of the types that cats can eat. Not all raw food is the same, and some can do more harm than good. Here is a quick list of the possible raw meats cats can eat when prepared correctly and safely: