If you’re a cat owner, you probably already know that cats have different nutritional needs than humans do and this means your cat can’t eat the same things you do! This is because some human food might do more harm than good for your cat.
So the question is: Can cats eat bacon?
The answer to this question, however, isn’t as simple as it seems because there are many different factors to take into consideration before you can safely feed your cat some bacon.
Read on to find out more!
Can Cats Eat Bacon?
The truth is, in some cases, yes…but with many caveats!
Most veterinarians agree that bacon is not toxic to cats and it is technically safe for them to eat in small amounts.
However, it is not recommended to give bacon as a steady diet as it can have some long-term health effects.
Bacon can be given sparingly and in moderation to felines as a treat, but it shouldn’t be their main food source or the only thing they eat every day.
What Makes Bacon Bad for Cats?
Salt Concentration
Because bacon is cured, it contains a lot of salt. Excessive amounts of sodium can cause issues with your pet’s kidneys and heart.
Fat Level
The high amount of fat in bacon makes it hard to digest, and cats are more susceptible to pancreatitis than human beings. This disease is painful and often deadly; it affects both humans and animals.
High Calories
Just like humans, cats need a balanced amount of calories each day. Feeding them too much bacon can lead to certain health problems.
High Protein
Bacon is bad for cats because it contains too much protein. It can cause kidney failure and high blood pressure in felines.
Preservatives
Bacon contains preservatives like potassium nitrite and sodium nitrite, which can be harmful to your pet. If you give bacon to your pet regularly, it might lead to an irregular heartbeat.
The moral here? Don’t overdo it!
Can Cats Eat Turkey Bacon?
Some pet owners are under the impression that turkey bacon is a healthier alternative to pork bacon for their furry companions.
But the fact is that there isn’t much of a difference in terms of sodium and fat content, and it often contains preservatives as well.
However, turkey bacon can be fed to your pet in small amounts occasionally. But it doesn’t make it any better than pork bacon when it comes to overall health benefits for your pet.
