Can Cats Eat Turkey Bacon? 5 Reasons to Avoid Giving Your Cat Human Foods

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Can cats eat turkey bacon? Turkey bacon may be a human favorite, but it’s not the best treat for cats as it’s high in fats and salt, which can cause digestive issues in cats.

Cats need protein to stay healthy, but their system cannot correctly digest processed meats like turkey bacon. Therefore, it’s best to feed cats a diet of specifically formulated cat food and treats rather than human snacks like turkey bacon.

This article will answer the question, ‘can cats eat turkey bacon?’ We’ll look at the main reasons you should avoid giving processed meats designed for human consumption to cats.

Can cats eat turkey bacon?

Your cat would enjoy a bit of turkey bacon if they had the chance to steal some or if they were lucky enough to have an owner share some with them. However, turkey bacon isn’t recommended because of the potential health risks involved.

Here are five reasons you shouldn’t give your cat processed meats such as turkey bacon, spam, sausages, salami and pepperoni.

Risk of sodium toxicity
High in calories which can cause weight gain
High levels of fat which can contribute to health issues
Contains unhealthy additives, flavorings, and preservatives
May contain seasonings that are toxic to cats

1. Risk of sodium toxicity

Risk of sodium is one of the main risks associated with giving cats processed meats. Cats need a diet low in salt and high in protein to stay healthy, so it’s best to avoid giving them foods like turkey bacon. Too much sodium can cause serious health problems such as kidney failure or seizures. Even in small amounts, salt can cause stomach upset in cats.

If you think your cat is suffering from sodium toxicity, you should consult a vet as soon as possible. The following are some of the most common symptoms which will develop rapidly after eating salty foods:

Lethargy and depression
Hypersalivation
Vomiting
Stomach issues such as diarrhea, pain, and gas
Dehydration, thirst, and excessive drinking
Excessive urination
Increased heart rate and respiratory rate
Muscle tremors or cramps
Seizures, coma, and death in the worse cases

2. High in calories which can cause weight gain

Processed meats are usually high in calories as they’re made from fatty cuts of meat. Eating too many calories can lead to weight gain, which can be dangerous for cats as it can contribute to other health issues such as diabetes or heart disease.

The average adult cat needs to eat 290 calories to maintain a consistent weight. Turkey bacon contains around 60 to 90 calories per serving, so it can quickly add up if you give your cat too much.

3. High levels of fat which can contribute to health issues

Processed meats are high in fat, contributing to health issues such as obesity, pancreatitis, and digestive problems. Turkey bacon contains around 2.5 to 4 grams of fat per serving which is too much for a small cat to digest.

4. Contains unhealthy additives, flavorings, and preservatives

Because of the unhealthy additives and preservatives, turkey bacon doesn’t offer the same benefits that a specifically formulated cat food or treat would.

5. May contain seasonings that are toxic to cats

Processed meats such as turkey bacon contain a lot of added seasonings and flavorings unsuitable for cats. Some of these seasonings can be toxic to cats and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Ingredients such as herbs and spices should be avoided.

Can cats eat turkey bacon: Final thoughts

It’s best to give cats foods designed just for them if you want to provide your pet with a nutritious snack. If your cat does happen to try some turkey bacon, watch closely for any signs of digestive distress. If you notice any symptoms, such as vomiting or diarrhea, it’s important to contact your vet for advice and treatment. By sticking with healthy cat food and treats, you can ensure your cat stays happy and healthy.

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