Why Are Raw Meat and Bones Dangerous?
Raw meat, including poultry, beef, and pork, can be contaminated with harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria. These bacteria can cause severe gastrointestinal illness in pets, known as salmonellosis or colibacillosis.
Pets can also shed these bacteria in their feces, posing a health risk to humans in the household.
Cooked bones, especially from poultry, are brittle and can splinter, causing intestinal blockages, perforations, or choking. Raw bones can also fracture teeth or cause similar internal injuries.
Why speed matters
Delaying care significantly worsens outcomes. Some signs appear hours or days later, so "looks fine right now" is not a reason to wait.
Signs to watch for
- Severe vomiting and diarrhea (may be bloody)
- Lethargy and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Fever
- Signs of obstruction (retching, inability to defecate, abdominal pain)
What to do right now
- Call your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately for advice.
- Do NOT induce vomiting if bone fragments or obstruction are suspected.
- If advised by a professional, collect a sample of the raw food or bone for identification.
- Monitor your pet closely for any symptoms and be prepared to take them to the vet.
- Prevent access to any remaining raw food or bones.
The step-by-step response, from the first minute to the vet visit, is in our Raw Meat and Bones: A Hidden Danger in Pet Diets emergency guide.