Giving raw meat to your dog or cat is a bad idea. A new study, carried out by a team of Dutch researchers and published in review VetRecord, has just shown that this practice can present a risk by transmitting parasites, bacteria and other viruses to animals.
In the Netherlands, 51% of dog owners say they give, partially or completely, raw meat to their animal, reminds Science and the Future. The primary reason is that they want to get closer to feeding their hairball ancestors, such as wolves or wild cats. Another argument: there are many facts and rumors circulating about industrial food for dogs and the cats. On paper, it therefore seems to be healthier than mash or croquettes.
Bacteria and parasites are present in raw meat
The researchers analyzed 35 frozen products marketed in the Netherlands, from 8 different brands. The bacteria Escherichia Colihas been identified on 8 products, listeria on 16 products and salmonella on 7 products. These bacteria are responsible for several diseases such as ulcerative colitis, typhoid fever, salmonellosis or listeriosis. Scientists have also identified certain parasites: Sarcocystis Cruzi in 4 products, Stenella in 4 others and the Toxoplasma gondii, responsible for toxoplasmosis, in 2 products.
Transmitted to animals, these infections can then represent a risk for humans. However, the samples tested were considered fit for human consumption with a microbiological quality considered acceptable. The problem lies with the antibiotic resistance. Several Salmonella were resistant to 7 antibiotics. Scientists therefore advise using junk food and putting warnings on product labels to educate owners.
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