Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they must eat meat in order to survive. Their bodies cannot digest plants properly and require animal proteins to survive. Bacon is a cured meat made from pork belly that is typically high in fat and sodium content. While cats can technically eat bacon, it is not something we would recommend as part of their regular diet due to its high fat and salt content.
A Closer Look at Bacon
Before we talk about if cats can eat bacon, let’s take a step back. Bacon is made from pork. Pork is a type of meat that many people like to cook with. But pork has a lot of sodium, fat, and calories, which cats should not eat in large amounts.
Should Cats Eat Bacon?
Can cats eat bacon? Yes, they can technically eat it, but too much bacon might make them sick in the long run. Many cats — especially as they age and are kept indoors — don’t have a lot of movement and therefore need a careful nutrition profile.
Cats sleep a lot- typically 16 to 20 hours every day. This means they don’t have a lot of time to metabolize the dense calories in bacon or any other pork products. These products also contain high levels of sodium and fat, which is unhealthy for pets just as it is for people.
Can Cats Eat Turkey Bacon?
In reality, feeding your cat turkey bacon is not a healthier alternative to feed them than traditional bacon. This is because turkey bacon has high levels of sodium and preservatives which can be harmful to cats if fed in large doses.
Can Cats Eat Bacon Bits?
You’re probably wondering if it’s okay for cats to eat bacon bits. And the answer is no, for the same reasons that you should avoid over-processed, sodium-rich products. These are not good for your cat’s health.
Can Cats Eat Bacon Raw?
It is essential to cook pork products thoroughly to avoid any parasitic infections; however, you can feed your cat an occasional piece of raw bacon. With that being said, feeding your cat raw meat is complicated, so it is always best to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist beforehand.
Cats Can Eat Bacon as Treats?
In other words, don’t give your cat bacon all the time. Treats like bits of bacon or ham are excellent to use as a way to get pills down them on a short-term basis, or if you want to offer up something special (like after they’ve been extra good during a vet visit). Just remember: If it’s not given often, your cat will likely appreciate it more.
What Happens If Your Cat Eats a Lot of Bacon?
If your cat chows down on the bacon you were going to serve at a Sunday brunch, he may get an upset stomach and barf (so keep an eye out). Most likely though, he’ll be just fine. And if not, hopefully you have extra bacon!
