A recent case of bird flu linked to a cat’s raw food diet has sparked new concerns about the safety of this diet. The $3.1 billion global raw pet food industry has long been controversial due to the high risk of bacterial and viral contamination.
In December, a pet food company recalled a batch of its raw turkey frozen food after it tested positive for H5N1, the highly deadly bird flu virus. A house cat who consumed the food died from the virus, and genetic testing matched the cat’s virus with the virus in the food.
Experts warn that even commercial raw foods that are frozen, freeze-fried, or dehydrated may not be safe due to incomplete killing of bacteria and viruses like avian influenza. Cats are particularly susceptible to H5N1, which has a high fatality rate in felines.
The supposed health benefits of raw pet food diets are largely anecdotal and lack scientific evidence. In fact, experts say that improperly balanced raw diets can lead to nutritional deficits, such as too much protein or too little fiber.
The American Veterinary Medical Association, the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, the FDA, and the Centers for Disease Control have all issued statements advising against raw diets due to the risks of parasitic infections, bacterial contamination, and viral transmission.
Pet owners who choose a raw diet for their cat or dog are at risk of exposure to diseases such as Toxoplasma gondii, Echinococcus granulosus, Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. The AVMA recommends keeping cats indoors to prevent exposure to wild birds, thoroughly cooking meat before feeding, and avoiding raw-meat-based treats or foods.
If you’re considering a raw diet for your pet, experts recommend consulting with a veterinarian, choosing a reputable brand that adheres to strict safety regulations, and being aware of the potential risks. The safest choice is to avoid raw food altogether, as advised by health professionals: “Not feeding your cat raw pet food is a pretty easy, implementable guideline.”
Source: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/raw-pet-food-risks