Cat Food

Can Cats Eat Raw Chicken?

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Don't know your cat's breed?

Can cats have raw chicken? House cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they are naturally inclined to eat meat. Their DNA is similar to wildcats.

Do you know cats have strong stomach acids to break down microorganisms in raw meat? But this doesn't mean raw meat or a chicken cat diet is your cat's safest or healthiest option. Pet owners and vets have found this debate on raw food diets as contentious. There are many things to consider before changing your cat's food options.

For your cat's well-being, it's crucial to give a healthy, balanced diet. Whether using commercial cat food or adding raw chicken, always prioritize your cat's health.

Can Cats Eat Raw Chicken?

Yes, cats can have raw chicken as part of a balanced diet. Cats need high-quality animal protein to stay healthy. Zoetis Petcare reiterates that chicken is an excellent protein source. It gives strength, and energy, boosts the immune system, and helps heal cells and tissues. Plus, cats love the taste of chicken!

Parasites and Bacteria

Raw chicken can be dangerous for cats. It may have harmful parasites and germs like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These can make cats and humans very sick. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says raw meat diets are a major source of bacterial contamination in pets. Eating these germs can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, and sometimes death.

These bacteria can spread to people and spread illnesses after feeding your cat's raw chicken. This puts your family at risk. Uncooked chicken may also have parasites like Toxoplasma gondii, which causes toxoplasmosis. This can be very harmful for pregnant women and those with weak immune systems. Pet owners should know these risks before giving uncooked chicken to cats.

Nutritional Deficiency

Cats must have a well-rounded diet to remain in good health. Store-bought cat food provides all the nutritional elements they require. This includes minerals, vitamins, arachidonic acid, and taurine. Note that taurine is a crucial amino acid that raw meat does not contain.

Just feeding your cat raw chicken might not provide all the necessary nutrients. Prevent any nutritional lacks by choosing a well-rounded balanced diet for your companion. Always consult your vet before deciding to only serve raw chicken.

Bone Pieces Can Be Dangerous

Raw chicken bones can harm your cat. The bones may get stuck in the cat's stomach or throat. Sharp bone pieces can cut the stomach and intestines. This may need surgery to fix and could even lead to death.

Can Cats Eat Raw Chicken Safely?

If you want to give your cat raw food, there are ways to reduce risks. Here are some safety tips:

Buy fresh, high-quality chicken from trusted places.
Freeze it right away to kill parasites. Choose organic or free-range chicken to limit germs. Freeze chicken at 0°F (-18°C) for three days or more. This kills most parasites. But it won't remove all bacteria, so be careful.
Thaw frozen chicken fully in the fridge before giving it to your cat.
Cut the chicken into tiny pieces to prevent choking. Do not give bones to your cat at all.
Clean all surfaces and tools that touch raw chicken very well. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat. Use separate cutting boards and tools for raw meat.
Watch your cat for signs of sickness after eating raw chicken. These may include vomiting, diarrhea, or feeling tired. See your vet right away if your cat seems unwell.
Consult with a vet: Before you change how you feed your cat, ask your vet if eating raw food is good or bad for your cat. They can tell you the right way to make raw food and if your cat will get all the nutrients needed.

Conclusion

Cats can eat raw chicken but it might have germs or things that could make them sick. Cat food made for cats has all the nutrients cats need to stay healthy. If you want to give your cat raw food, ask your pet doctor first to ensure it is safe and has everything your cat needs.