Your cat is definitely staring at you while you savor a delicious sausage. You can see they're excited about the prospect of sharing, and they have a sparkle in their eye. At this point, of course, you will be wondering, “Can cats eat sausage?” It's a legitimate query. It’s quite hard to turn those beseeching eyes down. Let's dissect this to see if giving our kittens this well-liked snack is a smart decision and whether rewarding a cat with sausage a good idea.
Can Cats Eat Sausage?
Technically a cat can eat a sausage and they will probably gobble it up given the smallest chance. Yet, vets do not recommend giving it to them. Fat, salt and spices are added to sausages which makes them delicious but not a good snack for cats. Feeding them a tiny piece now and then is ok but do not make it a habit.
Cats have different dietary needs than we do. What’s tasty for us might not be safe for them at all. An article by PetMD is especially alarming since it claims that a high percentage of raw pet products made from sausage meat were contaminated with Salmonella and Listeria.
Is Sausage Bad for Cats?
Sausages have loads of fat. Regular consumption of fatty food can cause obesity or even pancreatitis in cats. This is not something any loving pet parent wants. The other problem is salt as it causes dehydration and kidney problems. Spices and seasonings are another concern. Garlic or onion are extremely toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Most sausage seasoning contains both.
Do cats eat sausage to fulfill their meat requirements? Not really. Cats do thrive on a diet that is mostly meat but that meat isn't processed. The sausages we eat are. So while a sausage cat might look happy, it’s not a good idea to indulge on a regular basis.
Are There Any Sausages Healthy for Cats?
If you’re still wondering, “Can cats have sausage in any form?” the answer is maybe. Some special cat-friendly sausages are available. They do not have any harmful additives, spices, or excess fat. Still you should only use them as an occasional treat. Check the ingredients carefully so that you can spot anything that could harm your pet.
And what about other types of sausages? For example, can cats eat Vienna sausage? The same rules apply. Vienna sausages also have high sodium and preservatives. This makes them unsafe for cat consumption. Stick to treats specifically made for felines to avoid health issues.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that cats can eat sausage in very small amounts. It's not the best snack for them to be given on a regular basis. Between the high fat, salt, and potential for toxic ingredients, it’s safer to keep sausage out of your cat’s diet. According to Cornell Feline Health Center, when cats eat raw food they put the whole family at risk because they can shed pathogens without ever showing any signs of sickness. For any babies in the house, this can be very harmful.
Look for treats designed just for cats if you want to offer them something extra special, and if you're ever unsure, consult your veterinarian. By doing this, you may safely maintain your cat's happiness and health. Plus, you get to enjoy your sausage without the guilt of sharing something that’s not good for them!
