Source: Cornell Chronicle
A new study published in Communications Biology warns that commercial raw cat foods can harbor dangerous microbes, including antibiotic-resistant strains, posing risks to both pets and humans. Researchers identified pathogens such as Salmonella, Cronobacter, E. coli, and Pseudomonas in raw and freeze-dried cat food samples. Some strains matched human cases of salmonellosis, suggesting potential cross-contamination.
Vulnerable groups—children, the elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals—face the greatest danger. The study also uncovered Klebsiella, Clostridium perfringens, and evidence of mislabeling, with some products containing undeclared chicken, raising additional safety and transparency concerns. Despite these risks, most raw pet food products lack clear warning labels, leaving consumers unaware. The findings highlight gaps in current FDA testing, which targets only limited pathogens. Researchers argue their results could help shape broader regulatory policies, while urging cat owners to consider the hidden hazards of feeding pets raw or freeze-dried diets.
Read the full story HERE: https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2025/09/deadly-pathogens-found-commercial-raw-cat-foods