Undercooked or Raw Animal-Source Protein in Cat And Dog Diets

Uncooked or raw diets are usually derived from domesticated or wildly caught animals. They can include skeletal muscles, internal organs, and brittle bones from fish, poultry, or mammals. Raw food also includes unpasteurized milk products and uncooked foods. But here is the cause for concern – are they really healthy for your pets?

Is it healthy to feed your pets raw or uncooked foods?

Often, this question is controversial and there is still debate on whether feeding your pets uncooked food is healthy. For instance, while some pet owners advocate buying uncooked foods for their furry friends, vets are totally opposed to these types of diets. In fact, there is no evidence that encourages feeding your dog with uncooked foods.

Based on the recommendations by the renowned America Animal Hospital Association, pet owners are discouraged against feeding their pets undercooked or raw animal products.

Are pets vulnerable to bacterial infections after ingesting raw foods?

Yes, similar to our restaurants and home kitchens, raw animal products contain harmful bacteria. This means that animal products are likely to affect your health as well. Any animal or person that consumes undercooked food is therefore exposed to harmful bacteria right away. According to a study done recently, raw meats contain E.coli bacteria.

On the other hand, undercooked diets contained Salmonella enterica. This can have negative health consequences for your pets. Remember that animals that consume raw foods often shed E.coli and Salmonella, which are isolated in faces. 

Additionally, toxic bacteria like Clostridium often pose a health risk to your pets.In fact, Clostridium is very dangerous to the old, young, and pregnant women as well as those who are immunosuppressed. A study done recently shows that most raw-based meats are contaminated with Listeria, which also pose a health risk when consumed by pets.

Are raw diets balanced nutritionally?

To alleviate the risks linked to feeding your pets raw animal diets, the America Animal Hospital Association or AAHA recommends that:

• You feed your pets treated animal diets.
• You restrict your pets from consuming animal carcasses when hunting.
• You offer your pets a fresh and nutritionally balanced diet that is home-cooked.
• You practice thorough personal hygiene (i.e. proper handwashing) prior to feeding your pets their treats.

Conclusion

If you suspect your dog/ cat has ingested a raw diet, you need to visit the vet as soon as possible to get appropriate medication to prevent stomach disorders.

References: Avma, Fluxergy, Alberta Animalhealth Source

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