Deadly Pathogens Detected in Commercial Raw Cat Foods

A recent study from Cornell University has found disease-causing microbes, including antibiotic-resistant strains, in commercial raw cat foods, posing potential risks to both pets and humans. Published in Communications Biology, the study identified Salmonella, Cronobacter, E. coli, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, and Clostridium perfringens in raw, partially cooked, refrigerated, frozen, and freeze-dried cat foods.

Using both standard and nonstandard culturing techniques, the researchers found that some bacterial strains in the raw cat foods closely matched isolates from human illness cases, suggesting possible transmission from contaminated pet foods to people. Freeze-dried products were particularly associated with Clostridium perfringens, which can cause gastroenteritis. Some products were also mislabeled, containing meat types not listed on the packaging—a concern for cats with dietary restrictions or susceptibility to diseases like avian influenza.

Laura Goodman, Ph.D., senior author of the study, emphasized that many raw products lack warning labels, leaving consumers unaware of potential hazards. The findings highlight the need for stricter safety regulations and consumer awareness regarding raw cat food diets, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, pregnant individuals, and immunocompromised people.

The study reinforces public health guidance advising caution with raw pet foods and provides a foundation for potential future FDA regulatory updates.