Can Cats Eat Raw Chicken? What Australian Cat Owners Should Know

Cats are natural meat-eaters, so you might wonder whether it's safe to give your cat a piece of raw chicken while preparing dinner.

After all, cats have evolved as hunters. But does that mean raw chicken from the kitchen is a good choice for your feline companion?

The short answer: Cats may eat raw chicken, but feeding it is not recommended by several major veterinary organisations because of food safety risks.

Here's what Australian cat owners should know.

Why do cats eat meat?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they have specific nutritional requirements that depend on nutrients found in animal-based foods.

For example, cats require taurine, an essential amino acid that must be supplied through their diet.

However, being a carnivore doesn't mean a cat needs to eat raw meat. Appropriately formulated, nutritionally complete cat foods can provide the nutrients cats require without relying on raw chicken.

What are the risks of feeding raw chicken to cats?

1. Harmful bacteria

Raw chicken can carry bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter.

These bacteria can cause illness in animals and people. Importantly, contaminated chicken may look and smell perfectly normal.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discourages feeding raw or undercooked animal proteins to cats and dogs because of these health risks.

2. Contamination around the home

The risks aren't limited to the cat eating the chicken.

Raw meat juices can contaminate hands, kitchen surfaces, utensils and feeding bowls. Cats exposed to certain bacteria may also carry or shed them without showing obvious signs of illness.

Extra care is particularly important in households with young children, older adults, pregnant people or individuals with weakened immune systems.

3. Nutritional imbalance

Chicken contains protein and other nutrients, but chicken meat alone does not supply all the nutrients a cat needs in the correct proportions.

Cats require an appropriate balance of amino acids, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids.

A diet consisting mainly of plain chicken, whether raw or cooked, may result in nutritional deficiencies over time.

What do veterinary authorities recommend?

Several recognised organisations have published guidance about raw feeding.

RSPCA Australia recommends a complete and balanced diet appropriate for a cat's life stage and health. Its feeding guidance discourages raw meat and bones because of bacterial contamination and other potential risks.

The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) states that there is no evidence raw meat-based diets provide health benefits over commercial diets or balanced home-prepared cooked diets. It also highlights possible bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalances.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) discourages feeding raw or undercooked animal proteins and supports processing methods that reduce the risk of harmful pathogens.

Some animal welfare resources provide advice for owners who nevertheless choose to feed raw meat. Such advice should not be interpreted as evidence that raw feeding is risk-free.

If you're considering a raw diet, consult your veterinarian about food safety and nutritional adequacy.

Is cooked chicken a safer alternative?

Plain, thoroughly cooked chicken can be offered occasionally as a treat.

A few precautions are important:

• Remove bones before serving.

• Avoid onions, garlic, sauces, marinades and added seasonings.

• Allow the chicken to cool before offering it.

• Keep portions small and occasional.

Cooked chicken should not replace your cat's regular complete and balanced diet.

What about commercially prepared wet cat food?

For cat owners looking for convenient feeding options, commercially prepared wet cat food comes in a variety of flavours and textures.

Wet food also contains moisture, which can contribute to a cat's daily water intake.

However, it's important to understand that not all wet cat foods serve the same nutritional purpose.

Some are labelled as complete foods, designed to provide the nutrients required for the intended life stage when fed according to directions. Others are complementary foods, intended to be offered alongside a complete and balanced diet.

Both categories have different roles, so checking the label and feeding instructions is important.

For cats that enjoy chicken and fish flavours, RAZKIN offers Deluxe Tuna & Chicken and Deluxe Tuna & Salmon wet pâté varieties. These are complementary wet foods that can add flavour and variety alongside a nutritionally complete diet.

So, should you feed your cat raw chicken?

Although cats naturally depend on animal-based nutrients, that doesn't mean raw chicken is necessary or the safest choice.

Raw chicken carries potential food safety risks, and major veterinary organisations recommend caution or discourage raw feeding.

For everyday nutrition, the priority is a complete and balanced diet appropriate for your cat's age, health and individual needs.

Suitable complementary foods and occasional treats can provide additional variety without replacing that nutritional foundation.

If you have questions about your cat's diet, your veterinarian is the best person to provide individual guidance.

Sources and further reading

1. RSPCA Australia — What Should I Feed My Cat? — Updated November 2025.

2. WSAVA — Raw Meat-Based Diets for Pets — Global Nutrition Committee guidance.

3. AVMA — Raw Diets for Dogs and Cats — Veterinary policy on raw animal proteins.

4. CDC — Preventing Campylobacter Infection — Food safety and contamination prevention.

This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.