Why are cats not fed pork? - briefly
Cats are not typically fed pork due to its high fat content, which can lead to digestive issues and obesity, and raw pork poses a risk of parasites like trichinella.
Why are cats not fed pork? - in detail
Cats should not be fed pork due to several health and dietary concerns. Pork, especially when raw or undercooked, poses a significant risk of transmitting parasites such as Trichinella spiralis, which can cause trichinosis, a serious and potentially fatal condition in cats. Cooking pork thoroughly can reduce this risk, but even cooked pork is not an ideal food for felines. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must consist primarily of animal-based proteins, but pork is high in fat, which can lead to obesity, pancreatitis, and other digestive issues in cats. Additionally, pork often contains seasonings, preservatives, or additives like salt and garlic, which are toxic to cats. The high sodium content in processed pork products can also cause dehydration and kidney problems. Furthermore, cats have specific nutritional requirements that are best met by balanced, species-appropriate diets, such as those formulated with chicken, turkey, or fish. Feeding pork disrupts this balance and may lead to deficiencies or imbalances in essential nutrients like taurine, which is critical for a cat’s heart, vision, and overall health. While small, occasional amounts of cooked, unseasoned pork may not immediately harm a cat, it is generally safer and more beneficial to avoid pork altogether and opt for foods specifically designed to meet feline dietary needs.