Raw pet food sales are on the rise, with many pet owners opting for a diet that mimics their ancestors’ natural way of eating. However, experts warn that this trend comes with a significant risk of disease transmission to pets and even humans.
A growing number of cat and dog owners in the US are feeding their pets raw meat, poultry, and bones, despite health warnings from authorities. The trend is fueled by claims of improved health benefits, but veterinarians say that raw pet food can be deadly due to the high risk of contamination with salmonella, E. coli, and listeria.
According to Dr. Jane Sykes, a veterinarian at the University of California, Davis, “If this virus continues to spread, I’m sure we’ll see a lot more cases.” She notes that pets on raw food diets are handled with extra care to prevent disease transmission, but warns that even healthy-looking food can be contaminated.
Raw pet food companies promise various health benefits, including shiny coats and improved mobility. However, the FDA has issued numerous recalls due to contamination, highlighting the risks associated with this diet.
Despite these warnings, the raw pet food industry continues to grow, driven by increased pet ownership, marketing campaigns, and a growing demand for natural and healthy pet food options. The market research estimates that the industry will reach $8.72 billion by 2032.
As Sykes pointed out, “People genuinely think they’re doing the right thing for their pets, but don’t realize they can be contaminating their animal.” As the trend shows no signs of slowing down, it’s essential for pet owners to be aware of the potential risks and take necessary precautions to ensure their pets’ health and safety.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/12/30/raw-pet-food-recall-deaths-what-to-know/77245033007