Why only in moderation for cats
Pork is not toxic to cats and is a source of protein, so a small piece of well-boiled or roasted lean meat without seasoning makes a fine treat.
A few things call for care. Pork is fattier than chicken or beef, and fatty food can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and even an inflamed pancreas. Raw pork and wild boar can carry parasites and Aujeszky's disease, which is fatal to cats. Ham, bacon and sausages are full of salt, fat and spices, so they are not suitable for cats.
How to give it
- Choose lean meat and boil or roast it through, with no oil.
- Add no salt, seasoning, onion or garlic.
- Trim off the fat and take out the bones.
- Give a small piece only now and then.
What to watch out for
- Fatty meat can cause vomiting, diarrhoea or an inflamed pancreas.
- Raw pork and wild boar can carry parasites and Aujeszky's disease, which is fatal to cats.
- Ham, bacon and smoked pork are too salty and too fatty for a cat.
- Cooked bones splinter into sharp shards and can injure the throat or gut.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Lean, well-cooked meat
In moderationLean pork cooked through, without seasoning, is fine in small pieces.
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Fat and rind
Not safeVery fatty and can upset the stomach.
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Raw pork
Not safeIt can carry parasites and Aujeszky's disease, so never give it to a cat.
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Ham and bacon
Not safeToo salty and too fatty, so it is better not to give them to a cat.
What to give instead
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning is one of the best treats you can give a cat. Safe
- Beef Yes, well-cooked lean beef without seasoning is a good treat for a cat; just trim off the fat and take out any bones. Safe
- Eggs Yes, a well-cooked egg, boiled or cooked without fat, is fine for a cat, but it is better not to give a raw egg. Safe
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