Can Cats Safely Eat Deli Meat?
Cats are curious creatures, especially when it comes to what their humans are eating. If you’ve ever unwrapped a slice of deli meat and found your cat staring at you with wide, hopeful eyes, surely, you’ve wondered if it’s safe to share. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they MUST eat meat – but don’t let that deceive you. Sometimes the meat you eat has been treated or seasoned in a way that makes it harmful to cats. We are here to hopefully clear the air.
Is Deli Meat Safe for Cats?
As with most things in life, in moderation, certain deli meats can be safe for cats. High-quality, unseasoned deli meats can provide a protein boost, but there are important factors to consider. Is it smoked? How has it been treated? Is it full of preservatives or other chemicals? Which meats are better than the others.
The Safest Deli Meats for Cats
If you want to treat your cat with some deli meat, stick to these safer options:
Plain Cooked Turkey or Chicken: These are lean proteins and tend to be the most digestible for cats. Since most deli meat is processed, try your best to find a clean, low-preservative option.
Roast Beef (Unseasoned): In small amounts, unseasoned roast beef is acceptable, though it’s richer and should be given sparingly. This meat is likely to be less processed, but don’t let that fool you. Moderation is key here.
Low-Sodium Varieties: Sodium content in deli meat can be extremely high, which isn’t great for kitties. In general, opt for low-sodium options to reduce any sort of risk.
Deli Meats to Avoid
Some deli meats are best left off the menu entirely:
Highly Processed Meats (Salami, Bologna, Ham): These often contain high levels of salt, nitrates, and spices, all of which can be harmful to cats. These are not usually elements they would find in the wild in large volume, so you can see why it would have a negative effect on their bodies.
Seasoned or Smoked Meats: Garlic, onion, and other seasonings are commonly found in deli meats, and these can be highly toxic to cats. Your kitty might not notice the taste of these things as they are so excited to chomp down on the meat, but as their guardian, you need to be watching out for them.
Cured Meats: Meats like prosciutto or pastrami tend to have extremely high salt content, posing a risk of dehydration and other health concerns. Keep your cat away from these.
Why Moderation Matters
Even the safest deli meats should be given sparingly. Most deli meats are high in sodium content, preservatives, and potential seasonings. These make regular consumption unsafe. Occasional small bites as a treat are fine, but they shouldn’t replace a nutritionally balanced cat diet.
Final Thoughts
While cats can enjoy the occasional nibble of plain deli meat, it should remain an infrequent treat. Prioritize lean, unseasoned options like turkey or chicken, avoid heavily processed, smoked or cured meats, and always keep an eye on portion sizes. As with any dietary change, consulting your veterinarian can’t hurt.