In a recent post, we explored how a dog’s diet directly impacts skin health, coat condition, and overall wellness. As a follow-up, it’s important to take a closer look at raw meat diets for pets and why they may pose serious risks—not just to dogs and cats, but to humans as well.
Veterinarians around the world have begun sounding the alarm about feeding pets commercially prepared raw meat diets. In one major analysis, researchers examined 35 different raw dog and cat food products and found that nearly 86 percent contained bacteria capable of causing illness.
Although the research was conducted in the Netherlands, the findings are highly relevant in the United States. Raw pet food products sold domestically are often produced and handled in similar ways, meaning the same health concerns apply to American households.
The popularity of raw meat diets for pets has increased dramatically in recent years, largely driven by claims of convenience and perceived health benefits. However, those benefits have not been consistently supported by scientific evidence. On the other hand, multiple studies—including this one—have highlighted potential dangers to both pets and their owners.
One of the biggest concerns surrounding raw pet food is the risk of bacterial and parasitic contamination. Humans are especially vulnerable, as they can become sick from pathogens present in raw meat. While pets may carry certain bacteria without showing symptoms, they can still spread those organisms to people.
Illness most often occurs through cross-contamination, such as when raw food is prepared in the kitchen, pet bowls are washed in shared sinks, or surfaces are not properly sanitized. People can also become infected by handling animals that are shedding bacteria or by coming into contact with contaminated pet waste.
The study evaluated 35 frozen raw pet food products from eight different brands, all readily available in grocery stores and pet shops. These foods included raw meat, bones, and animal by-products sourced from cows, chickens, ducks, lambs, and even horses. Many products also contained organs and, in some cases, added fruits or vegetables.
Among the most concerning findings was the presence of E. coli, detected at levels considered unsafe for human exposure. A particularly dangerous strain, E. coli O157, appeared in 23 percent of the samples. This same strain has been responsible for serious foodborne outbreaks in North America.
Additional pathogens were also widespread. Listeria was identified in 43 percent of the tested products, while Salmonella appeared in 20 percent. Researchers also detected parasites, including Sarcocystis cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii. Sarcocystis can be harmful to livestock, while Toxoplasma has been associated with neurological and behavioral issues in both cats and humans.
Although the sample size was limited, the conclusion was clear: raw meat diets may expose pets and people to harmful bacteria and parasites. The risk is not isolated to Europe—raw pet foods sold in the United States are just as likely to carry similar contaminants.
Another concern is antibiotic resistance. Dogs and cats consuming raw diets are more likely to harbor bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics compared to pets fed traditional dry or canned food.
Nutritional balance is also an issue. Many raw meat diets fail to provide complete and balanced nutrition, which can lead to problems such as poor skin condition, dull coats, and recurring ear infections.
Ultimately, choosing what to feed your pet is a personal decision. However, making an informed choice is critical. Pet owners are encouraged to speak with their veterinarian about safe, balanced nutrition options and to fully understand the risks associated with raw meat diets before introducing them into their pet’s routine.
Education is the best tool we have to protect the health of our pets—and ourselves.
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