While feeding raw foods to pets may seem like a natural and healthy choice, it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved to the health of both pets and humans. Pet owners should carefully consider these risks and consult with a veterinarian before making any dietary changes for their pets. Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of both pets and humans should be the top priority when it comes to pet nutrition.
One of the most significant risks of feeding raw foods to pets is the potential for bacterial infections. Raw meat may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, E. coli, and Listeria. These bacteria often cause severe gastrointestinal issues in pets, including vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and in some cases may lead to more severe health problems such as kidney failure or sepsis. Freezing does not kill these pathogens.
Unlike commercial pet foods, which are formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition, many raw diets lack essential nutrients. Feeding pets a raw meat diet without proper supplementation can result in deficiencies in calcium, phosphorus, and other vital vitamins and minerals. Over time these imbalances can lead to serious health issues such as bone fractures, dental problems, and weakened immune systems.
Raw meat and fish can harbour parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora, and tapeworms. When pets consume raw foods contaminated with these parasites, they can develop parasitic infections. Symptoms of parasitic infections can vary but often include gastrointestinal distress, weight loss, and lethargy. In severe cases, parasites can cause organ damage or even death.
Bones included in some raw diets may pose a choking hazard. Bones may cause blockages or tears in the pet’s esophagus, stomach, or intestines. Additionally, bones can cause tooth fractures leading to other health complications.
Pets with sensitive bowels are more likely to develop digestive upsets when there is variability in the composition and consistency of their food; a situation far more likely to occur with raw food or home prepared diets than with commercial diets. Raw foods are also more likely to spoil if not eaten immediately resulting in potential gastrointestinal issues.
The raw pet food industry is largely unregulated, meaning there is often a lack of consistency with the sourcing, handling, and labelling of these products. There may also be a lack of accountability for the quality and composition of the food. This increases the risk of contamination with toxins or harmful bacteria and parasites, as well as nutritional imbalances. Pet owners should be aware of the potential dangers associated with purchasing raw foods from unregulated sources and should seek advice from veterinarians before making dietary choices for their pets.
Feeding raw foods to pets not only poses a risk to the animals themselves, but also to their humans. Even if they don’t appear unwell, pets fed raw diets may themselves carry bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter, or E.coli, and can shed these pathogens in their faeces, which can then contaminate the household environment. Humans, especially young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals, can become infected through direct contact with contaminated surfaces or pet faeces. Symptoms of bacterial infections in humans include fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps.
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic parasitic disease that poses significant risks to the developing foetus during pregnancy.
Feeding raw foods to pets has also been directly associated with the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections in humans.
Handling raw pet foods can lead to cross-contamination in the kitchen. If raw meat is not handled and stored properly, bacteria can spread to countertops, utensils, and other foods. This cross-contamination can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses in humans. It is essential to practice strict hygiene measures, such as thoroughly washing hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw pet foods, and paying special attention to food hygiene and safety during storage.