Raw meat matches a cat’s natural diet and preserves nutrients, but it carries parasite and bacterial risks. Without safe sourcing, cooked homemade meals are the safer option.
The Dilemma of Cat Feeding: Raw Meat or Cooked Homemade Meals?
Cats are natural carnivores. Raw meat aligns with their dietary habits, providing protein and exercising their teeth. However, raw meat may carry parasites (such as Toxoplasma gondii and tapeworms) and bacteria (like Salmonella). Improper handling can easily make cats sick.
Raw meat is undoubtedly superior to cooked homemade meals—it's more convenient and retains more nutrients. But this assumes a reliable source, which most pet owners simply can't guarantee. So cooking homemade meals remains the safer choice.
While raw meat is good, it’s no substitute for cat food! We recommend making high-quality cat food the main part of your cat’s diet and using raw meat as a nutritional supplement. New owners can start with cooked meat and gradually transition to raw meat to minimize gastrointestinal upset. Only with proper nutrition can your cat stay healthy and happy!