Why don't cats eat venison? - briefly
Cats typically avoid eating venison due to its strong odor and taste, which are unappealing to their finely tuned senses. Additionally, venison contains compounds like selenium and taurine that cats may find unpleasant or even toxic in large amounts.
Why don't cats eat venison? - in detail
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet must consist primarily of meat. While venison, which is deer meat, might seem like an attractive option for cat owners looking to provide a high-quality protein source, there are several reasons why cats typically do not eat venison and why it is generally not recommended as part of their diet.
Firstly, cats have very specific nutritional needs that are best met by a balanced commercial cat food. Commercial cat foods are formulated to provide the precise balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals that cats require for optimal health. Venison, on the other hand, is not naturally balanced to meet these needs. Feeding venison alone could lead to nutrient deficiencies or imbalances in a cat's diet, which can result in various health issues over time.
Secondly, cats are sensitive to sudden changes in their diet. Introducing new foods, including venison, should be done gradually and with caution to avoid causing digestive upset. The abrupt introduction of venison could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, some cats may develop food allergies or intolerances to certain types of meat, including venison, which can cause skin irritations and other health issues.
Thirdly, raw or undercooked venison poses a significant risk of transmitting parasites and bacteria to cats. Deer are known carriers of various parasites such as tapeworms and roundworms, which can be harmful to both cats and humans if ingested. Moreover, bacterial infections like E. coli or Salmonella can also be present in raw venison, putting the cat's health at risk. Cooking venison thoroughly before serving it to a cat can help reduce these risks, but it is still not recommended due to the potential nutritional imbalances mentioned earlier.
Lastly, cats have evolved to prefer and thrive on diets that are rich in specific amino acids found primarily in poultry and fish. Venison does not provide the same level of these essential amino acids as poultry or fish do. Therefore, cats may show little interest in eating venison compared to their preferred protein sources.
In conclusion, while venison might seem like a tempting option for cat owners looking to provide a high-quality protein source, it is generally not recommended due to potential nutritional imbalances, digestive upset, and health risks associated with raw or undercooked meat. Sticking to a balanced commercial cat food is the best way to ensure that cats receive all the necessary nutrients for their overall health and well-being.