Why
The ASPCA and PetMD both warn that raw or undercooked meat can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, which can make cats and the people who handle their food sick. If you are interested in raw feeding, talk to your vet first.
What to do instead
- Cook meat thoroughly and serve it plain.
Safer swaps from the same group: chicken, fish, salmon, turkey.
Watch out for
- Raw food also raises hygiene risks for your household.
If your cat ate raw meat
- Note how much your cat ate and when, and keep any packaging.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661).
- Don't make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Other meat, fish and eggs: quick answers
| Food | Verdict | Short answer |
|---|---|---|
| Bones | Avoid | No. Bones can injure or block a cat's gut, which may need surgery. |
| Fat trimmings and skin | Avoid | Best avoided. Fatty scraps can cause stomach upset and pancreatitis. |
| Meat baby food | Avoid | Best avoided. Meat baby food is often seasoned with onion or garlic. |
| Eggs | Small amounts | Cooked egg is the only option to consider; raw eggs are a no. |
| Tuna | Small amounts | Only a little, once in a while. Tuna made for people should not be a regular part of a cat's diet. |
| Chicken | Safe | Yes. Plain, thoroughly cooked chicken with no bones, skin or seasoning is a safe treat. |
| Fish | Safe | Yes, if it is cooked, plain and boneless. Raw fish is best avoided. |
| Salmon | Safe | Yes, cooked and plain. Raw fish is not a good idea for cats. |
Rules for any new food
- Plain is the rule: no salt, butter, oil, onion, garlic, sugar or sweeteners. Most of the danger in human food comes from what is added to it.
- Keep all treats under 10% of your cat's daily calories . The rest should come from a complete cat food.
- Check labels for onion and garlic powder, which turn up in stock, gravy, baby food and seasoned meat.
- If your cat has a health condition, such as diabetes, kidney disease or a sensitive stomach, ask your vet before adding any new food.
Frequently asked questions
Is raw meat safe for cats?
Best avoided. Raw meat can carry Salmonella and E. coli.
What should I do if my cat ate raw meat?
Most cats are fine after a small amount, but watch for vomiting, diarrhea or a change in behavior, and call your vet if anything worries you.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets"
- PetMD, "Human Foods That Are Dangerous for Cats" (reviewed by Nicole Silva, DVM)
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.