Can Cats Eat Beef Jerky

One of the questions that bother cat owners is: can cats eat beef jerky? The straight answer is yes, but only a limited amount. This tasty snack is still pure meat, and cats cannot help ignoring the scent. Their curiosity will always drive them to have a piece. It is upon you to keep them safe since the jerky can have bad effects on them.

Can cats have beef jerky?

Not everything fed to a cat is harmful; some are harmful due to the added ingredients or flavorings. Plain beef jerky should not be a problem for your cat. The problem arises when it contains some flavorings that may affect your cat.

However, you should watch the amount you feed your cat. You should give them the smallest amount to satisfy their curiosity. You know the cats with curiosity; they want to try everything. Too much of it can be harmful to the cat.

How can beef jerky harm your cat?

Beef jerky contains high salts and is very dry; whenever your cat consumes too much of it, they will get dehydrated due to extended thirst. If you feed them jerky, even the smallest amount, ensure you give them some water.

Can cats eat organic beef jerky? The answer remains the same, organic jerky may contain ingredients such as onions and garlic. Cats are allergic to onions and garlic, and they will react immediately to the effects of these vegetables; perhaps they may be worse.

The cat can suffer from anemia; garlic, onions, and other elements in the beef jerky can destroy the cat’s blood cells leading to anemia. This can lead to the cat’s death, or you may spend more costs and time treating the pet.

Can cats eat jack link’s beef jerky? Cats love these jerkies, but the effects can lead to upsetting tummies, and the cat may have challenges feeding on any meal. Only feed them a small amount to suppress their curiosity.

Can cats eat teriyaki beef jerky?

The response remains the same; only a small amount is okay. The risks increase as you increase the amount. The cat may enjoy eating the beef jerky; however, you should tame them not to get used to it.

Teriyaki beef jerky contains the lowest levels of flavoring, which makes it considerable for the cat. If you choose to feed your cat a few pieces, you should follow it with some water so that the cat does not suffer dehydration.

Can cats eat dried beef?

These tasty snacks are best for human consumption, not for the cat. Despite being meat lovers, only a small amount of dried beef is recommended for your cat. Ensure you feed them on dried beef with the least amount of flavor.

Good news for cat owners, currently, there are manufactures of dried beef for cats. These cat snacks are flavor-free to ensure the cat stays healthy regardless of the amount it eats. Get them their treats so that they can enjoy them besides you. Both of you can enjoy the snacks together.

Should I give my cat some meat?

Beef isn’t bad for cats; the problem arises when it contains some harmful substances that may not be recommended for your cat. Ensure it does not have a certain flavoring your cat is allergic to. Avoid excess salt, onions, and garlic.

If you are enjoying some cooked meals, you can give them a few pieces. You can also feed some canned beef or any meat, especially before cooking. The cat will love the meal. Ensure the meat is fresh; expired meat could have adverse effects on your cat.

Why is beef jerky not suitable for your cat?

The first reason is due to the nature of jerky beef; it is too dry for the cat. It can also choke the cat. Cats do not have very advanced teeth to break the jerky into small sizes. You need to rash it for them so that they do not choke on it.

Beef jerky may have certain ingredients that are harmful to the cat. Sodium, salts, garlic, and onions may not be very friendly to the cat; hence you need to ensure the levels of these ingredients are low. The preservative contained in the jerky can also increase the harm to your cat.

How do you know your cat is poisoned?

Most beef jerkies are preserved in other ingredients such as soy sauce, which raises sodium levels in the meat. The sodium accumulates on the cat’s legs; when you see the cat having trouble walking and moving in an imbalanced manner.

If you see the cat drinking too much water or showing signs of thirst, you need to give them more water. You also need to take them to the vet immediately. Failure to do either of these two will result in kidney damage, eventually killing your cat.

General weakness and tiredness could also indicate that your cat is having the effects of poisoning. Remember, the jerkies can cause anemia which may make the cat generally weak. Ensure the can is given immediate attention to avoid adverse effects.

Alternative to beef jerky for the cat

Other jerkies are not as flavored as beef jerkies. They can be suitable for the cat. These options can be safer and healthier for your cat.

Dried fish or seafood will be good for the cat since they are preserved the natural way. They may also have various benefits suitable for your cat. You can make them part of the cat’s regular diet without worrying about poisoning.
There are jerky treats meant for cats in the market. Get some from the pet store, or you can order them online.

Final thoughts

Cats are meat lovers, beef jerkies included. Due to their curiosity, they may want the jerkies more, and more hence you need to control the levels they eat. The scent can also draw them, and they can’t help until they get some taste. If you must feed them on jerkies, get them their jerky treats or dried fish.