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Can Cats Eat Bacon?

Can Cats Eat Bacon?

Updated on July 18, 2024
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Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

Is bacon bad for cats? | What to do if your cat consumes bacon | How to prevent your cat from eating bacon

bacon

Is bacon good for cats? No, and you shouldn’t give it to them. Remember to always consult your veterinarian before adding any new food or snacks to your pet’s diet.

Cats can be choosy little creatures, especially when it comes to cuisine. When they beg for our food or seem interested in one of our snacks, we may be tempted to share. After all, cats love meat, and it should be the primary staple in their diet. Can cats have bacon? The answer is no. 

Is bacon safe for cats

The problem with bacon for cats is its salt, nitrates and high fat content. High quantities of salt can be fatal to felines, who can fall victim to sodium ion poisoning. Signs of sodium ion poisoning include:

  • Vomiting
  • Confusion and lack of focus
  • Lack of energy
  • Shaking or seizing
  • Breathlessness
  • Diarrhea

Depending on their weight, as little as .05 tablespoon of salt can be toxic to your cat. If your pet is exhibiting any of the signs mentioned above, seek immediate veterinary attention.

Bacon grease can also cause severe illness in cats. You might think adding a little bacon grease to your cat’s dry food could help give them a shiny coat, but consuming too much fat can cause inflammation of the pancreas and pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis can affect other major organs in addition to the pancreas and can be fatal if not properly treated. Once diagnosed, a specialized diet to reduce the chances of flare-ups may be required. Symptoms of pancreatitis include:

  • Fever
  • A sore and swollen belly
  • Vomiting
  • Refusal to eat 
  • A yellow tint to their eyes or skin 
  • Lack of energy
  • Increased heart rate 
  • Signs of dehydration

Some cured meats like bacon are also high in nitrates, which can be toxic. 

What to do if your cat consumes bacon

If your cat eats a small amount of bacon or bacon grease, they’ll most likely be fine, but keep an eye on them for signs of discomfort. If you suspect your cat has eaten a large amount of cooked bacon, raw bacon or bacon grease, or your cat is exhibiting any of the symptoms described above, consult your veterinarian immediately.

How to prevent your cat from eating bacon

If your cat begs for bacon and you find it hard to resist their charms, bacon-flavored cat treats or bacon-flavored cat food might help satisfy their cravings. If your cat has never had bacon nor shown an interest in it, you may want to avoid that flavor in general so they don’t develop a taste for it and make a grab for your breakfast when you’re not paying attention.

Inform your friends and family members of the potentially toxic side effects bacon can have on felines. Once they understand the dangers, they’ll be less likely to sneak your pet a taste. If you have a child in your household, try to keep your cat out of the room when bacon is being served. Discard bacon grease immediately after cooking and keep your eye on bacon whenever it’s being prepared, consumed or being discarded or put away. Alternatively, consider setting up your cat in another room whenever bacon is out.

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FAQs About Cats Eating Bacon

Can cats eat ham?

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Ham is leaner than bacon, so very small amounts may be OK for cats to consume, but it’s still not recommended. Ham isn’t good for cats because, like bacon, it contains high amounts of salt and nitrates. If your cat goes crazy over the flavor, look for ham-flavored cat food or treats.

Can my cat eat pork?

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Bacon is bad for cats, but pork for cats isn’t a bad option in small amounts. Like other meats, pork is packed with protein. It also contains important vitamins and minerals, including iron, niacin, zinc and B vitamins, and is a great source of amino acids. When feeding your cat pork, choose lean cuts, like tenderloin, and steer clear of oils, seasonings and other potentially toxic ingredients, including onions, grapes, garlic and more.  Cooked pork for cats is always the way to go, as raw meat can leave your pet vulnerable to pathogens.  When debating whether o give your cat a nibble of pork, just remember that certain savory ingredients we add to our meals are toxic to cats, including salt, garlic and onion. If you’re unsure about the safety of feeding a particular ingredient to your cat, consult your vet.  

Can my cat eat pork liver?

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Pork liver for cats seems like it would be a delightful treat, but it’s high level of vitamin A makes it potentially unhealthy. Consuming too much vitamin A can lead to skeletal problems like osteoporosis. Giving your cat a little bit of plainly cooked pork liver may turn out OK, but it’s best to avoid it altogether. 

Can I give my cat deli meats?

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The occasional nibble can be okay, but any kind of cured meat is most likely riddled with salt and additives. There are other sources of protein that would be much more beneficial for your feline to consume. If you’re curious about what the best diet for your cat might be, here are some ideas on What to Feed Cats For a Healthy Pet.  Shop online or drop into your neighborhood Petco Pet Care Center for a one-stop-shop for your pets. We have solutions for a variety of pets—you can pick up items from our cat health and wellness section, as well as food, toys and accessories.

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