What You Should Know About Raw Food Diets for Cats

Raw food diets for cats (and dogs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, as many people believe it is the healthiest and most natural option for their domestic cats. If you're wondering Can cats eat raw chicken, meat and other foods?, it is important to understand the risks and perceived benefits of feeding raw to cats.

What is a Raw Food Diet for Cats?

A raw food diet for cats typically includes raw muscle meat, organ meat, and ground bones. Common meats used in raw cat foods are chicken, fish, and eggs, although other meats may also be included. While this diet may seem similar to what wild cats consume, it may not be appropriate for domestic cats, who have longer life expectancies.

Does Raw Food Offer Any Benefits for Cats?

Many people believe raw chicken, fish and eggs have more protein and higher nutrient content and that the cooking process reduces those nutrients, but this isn’t true.Better digestibility is another perceived benefit of raw diets for cats. This has not been proven by any scientific studies, however. In fact, some cooking processes may even make certain foods more digestible and nutrients more available than they were raw. According to Purina veterinarian Dr. RuthAnn Lobos, “Cooking food at the proper temperature and pressure can actually make the proteins and starches more easily digestible. “Also, understanding how the cooking process works—by having food scientists on staff—helps us to know the process intimately. This is true for the vitamins and minerals in the diet as well, which ensures the finished product is precisely complete and balanced.” 

Are Raw Food Diets Complete & Balanced?

When choosing cat food, it is essential to look for formulas that are complete and balanced. While commercially prepared raw diets may meet these criteria, homemade raw diets are unlikely to provide all the necessary nutrients. If you opt for a raw food diet, it is important to work closely with your veterinarian to ensure that your cat receives all the required nutrients through both food and supplements. Nutrient deficiencies can lead to various health issues, including problems with nerve function, brain function, metabolism, and bone health.

Are Raw Diets for Cats Safe?

Raw diets for cats also pose other risks. Bones that are not adequately ground can cause intestinal blockages or lacerations. Additionally, raw foods are more likely to be contaminated with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These pathogens can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and, in severe cases, even prove fatal for cats. Moreover, cats can spread these bacteria to humans through grooming or contact with their feces.According to a study by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA), these bacteria aren’t just a risk for your cat—they also pose a threat to you and your entire family.Your cat can spread the bacteria from her food either by grooming herself and then interacting with you or through her feces. The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have also spoken out about the risks RFDs pose. Although the FDA, CDC and AVMA all advise against feeding cats raw meat, they do offer advice for those who choose to feed a RFD to reduce the risk of illness. Some of the precautions you can take to reduce the spread of bacteria include using gloves when handling the raw food and thoroughly cleaning your prep surfaces. Because cats must groom and relieve themselves, you can’t eliminate the risk completely. 

Should You Feed Your Cat a Raw Food Diet?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to feed your cat a raw food diet is a personal one. If you choose a commercially prepared RFD, our experts recommend finding one formulated by a veterinary nutritionist. Also look for RFDs that have undergone feeding trials and meets World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) guidelines to ensure your cat gets all the nutrients she needs. We also urge you to work closely with your veterinarian to ensure your cat is getting all the nutrients she needs—through her RFD and any necessary supplements. Purina offers a range of complete and balanced cat food options to satisfy your cat’s need for high protein and your desire to feed a healthy and natural food.