Cats, known as “obligate carnivores,” do best on a diet high in animal protein. As cat owners, we always look for ways to treat our cats, and beef jerky is a popular choice.
But before giving this human snack to our cats, we need to find out if it is safe and has any benefits. In this guide, we look at the pros and cons of feeding cats beef jerky and give essential tips to ensure their health.
In This Article
What is Beef Jerky?
Beef jerky is a type of dried meat that has been preserved. It is usually made from lean cuts of beef, but it can also be made from pork, turkey, or chicken.
The meat is cleaned of fat, cut into strips, seasoned, and dried. This creates a product that doesn’t need refrigeration and can be eaten for a long time. Beef jerky is a popular snack for humans, but the question is: Is it safe for cats to eat?
Can Cats Eat Beef Jerky?
Beef jerky, a tasty and chewy snack for people, is just dried and cured beef, which is safe for cats to eat in its pure form. But the spice is where the devil is.
Traditional beef jerky for people often has a lot of salt, sugar, herbs, and preservatives added to make it taste better. Even though cats can eat a small amount of plain beef, these other ingredients can harm their health.
Can Kittens Eat Beef Jerky
It’s essential not to give beef jerky to kittens. Their digestive systems are susceptible because they are still growing. Because beef jerky has a lot of sodium, it can cause electrolyte imbalances. Onions and garlic, conversely, can cause anemia in kittens.
Also, very young cats could choke on jerky because it is hard. Because of this, kittens more immature than a year old should never eat beef jerky or other dried meats. Choose things that are safe for kittens to ensure they are healthy.
How to make beef or chicken jerky for cats
Making beef jerky for cats at home can be easy, but it’s essential to ensure you use safe ingredients for cats. Here’s how to make easy beef jerky for cats:
| Ingredients | Amount |
| Lean beef or chicken | 1 pound |
| Cat-friendly broth | 1/4 cup |
| Catnip (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Prepare meat: Trim the lean beef or chicken and cut it into thin slices.
Marinate meat: Cover the slices with broth safe for cats and catnip (optional) and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven: Set to 175-200°F (80-95°C).
Bake jerky: Slices should be baked for a minimum of two hours to become dry after being marinated.
Cool and store: Let cool, cut into cat-sized pieces, and keep in the fridge for up to two weeks.
The Pros and Cons of Giving Cats Beef Jerky
Meat is a natural part of a cat’s diet, no doubt about it. Beef jerky, on the other hand, is a processed food that can have a lot of sodium and other additives.
Before giving beef jerky to your cat, it’s essential to check the label and see what’s in it. Some things to consider are the amount of sodium, the type of meat used, any extra spices, and possible dangers like silica gel packets and BPA.
- Sodium Content in Beef Jerky
Sodium is a primary concern because it is a natural preservative and flavor enhancer. Cats need salt in their food to keep their fluids balanced, keep their nerves working, and make their muscles contract.
However, too much sodium can be dangerous and cause salt poisoning. So, choosing beef jerky with low sodium or no salt is essential for your cat.
- Lean Meat Selection
Cats can only eat meat because they are obligate carnivores. In the wild, their food is primarily high-protein, low-fat sources.
Choosing beef jerky made from lean cuts of meat aligns with their natural dietary needs and gives them a protein-rich treat similar to what they eat in the wild.
- Beware of Toxic Seasonings
The seasonings and spices in beef jerky are often different; some can harm cats in large amounts.
If the beef jerky has common spices like cinnamon, garlic, or onion powder, you should avoid it. Choose products with few or no extra seasonings to ensure your cat is safe.
- The Impact of Sugar
Sugar isn’t directly bad for cats, but too much can make them gain weight and cause health problems like diabetes. Choosing beef jerky with no sugar or little sugar is an intelligent way to treat your cat.
Feed Your Cat Beef Jerky Safely
If you decide to give beef jerky to your cat, do so in moderation and as a treat, not as a meal replacement. Prioritize options made from lean cuts of meat are low in sodium and don’t have any harmful seasonings.
Always watch your cat for signs of distress after it eats something, and talk to your vet if you need to.
How to Choose Beef Jerky for Cats
Prevail Beef Jerky stands out as a treat for your cat that is both safe and healthy. It is made from 100% grass-fed beef and is high in protein, low in sodium, and has no added ingredients. Choose beef jerky that fits your cat’s dietary needs to ensure they are safe and healthy.
A safer alternate:
If you want to treat your cat, you can do so in a way that is safer and better for their diet:
- Dried Fish
Dried fish is an excellent choice if you want to give your cat a meat-based treat that is both safe and healthy.
Dried fish usually has no harmful additives, making it a healthy snack full of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids that your body needs. It’s easy for your cat to chew on, improves its coat, and even helps keep its teeth healthy.
- Commercial Cat Treats
Choose cat treats that are available on the market. These treats are made to meet a cat’s nutritional needs. They don’t have any harmful ingredients and taste good to a cat.
- Plain Cooked Meat
Give your cat small pieces of plain cooked beef, chicken, or turkey as a meaty treat. Make sure the meat doesn’t have any bones and doesn’t have any seasonings or sauces on it to keep it from choking.
What you should do if your cat eats beef jerky
If your cat ate a small amount of beef jerky by accident, watch for stomach problems like vomiting, diarrhea, or feeling sick. But it’s best to call your vet immediately to get advice and take the proper steps to ensure your cat is healthy.
Final Thoughts
When chosen and offered with caution, beef jerky can be a safe treat for cats. However, ensuring the quality of the product and understanding its potential risks is vital.
Always prioritize your cat’s well-being and consult your veterinarian for expert advice on treating your feline companion. You can give your cat a tasty and safe snack if you take the right steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to feed my cat beef jerky?
Feeding your cat beef jerky could be better because it’s high in salt and difficult for cats to digest.
What if my cat accidentally ate beef jerky?
If your cat accidentally ate beef jerky, monitor them for any signs of distress and consult a vet if you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms.
Can cats have Jack Link’s teriyaki beef jerky?
Jack Link’s teriyaki beef jerky is unsuitable for cats due to its high salt content and seasoning.
Is it okay for cats to eat beef?
Cats can have small amounts of plain, cooked beef as a treat, but it shouldn’t be an essential part of their diet.
7 thoughts on “Can Cats Eat Beef Jerky? Essential Takeaways”