If you’ve ever watched a cat nibble on something mysterious or caught them chewing on a leftover piece of chicken, you might have wondered-do cats eat bones? It’s a common question for pet owners who want to understand their furry friends better and keep them safe. After all, bones can seem like a natural part of a cat’s diet since they’re hunters by nature, but are they safe for your pet to eat?
In this article, we’ll explore the reality behind cats and bones-why they might be attracted to them, what risks are involved, and how you can make the best decisions for your cat’s health. Whether you’re curious about raw bones, cooked bones, or just want to know if it’s okay to share your dinner scraps, this overview will clear up the confusion with straightforward facts and expert insights.
So, if you want to learn what’s safe and what’s not when it comes to your cat and bones, keep reading. Understanding this could make all the difference in keeping your cat happy and healthy.
Understanding Cat Eating Behaviour: Natural Diet and Instincts
Cats are natural hunters and obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to thrive on meat. In the wild, they catch small animals like birds and rodents and yes, that includes eating the whole prey, bones and all. These small bones provide some nutrients and help wear down their teeth naturally.
This instinct shapes how domestic cats sometimes show interest in bones, especially small ones. However, just because they’re drawn to bones doesn’t mean all bones are safe for them, especially the ones we find in our kitchens.
So, while cats’ natural diet includes some bone consumption, it’s important to remember that domestic life and veterinary science suggest caution when it comes to feeding bones at home.
Can Cats Eat Bones? Let’s Break It Down
You might’ve seen cat parents offering raw chicken necks or rabbit ribs and thought - Wait, can cats really eat bones?
Well, yes, but it’s not that simple.
Cats are natural hunters. In the wild, they eat their prey whole, meat, organs, and even bones. So, it makes sense to think that bones could be part of a natural feline diet.
But there’s a catch, not all bones are safe. The type of bone, how it’s prepared, and your cat’s chewing habits all play a huge role.
So before you toss your cat a leftover chicken wing, let’s unpack what’s safe, what’s not, and how to handle it the right way, clearly and responsibly.
Are Bones Safe for Cats?
Bones can be safe, but only if you choose the right kind. Cooked bones? Not. They splinter easily and can cause choking or internal damage. Raw bones? They’re softer and more natural, but they’re not risk-free either.
Safer Bone Options for Cats
If you’re considering bones as a treat or part of a raw diet, these are the types many vets and raw feeders recommend:
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Chicken necks and wings – Small, soft, and packed with cartilage that supports joints.
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Quail bones – Tiny and easy to chew, making them a good starting point.
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Rabbit ribs and front legs – Lightweight and rich in calcium, closer to wild prey.
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Chicken feet and duck necks – Okay in moderation, but higher in bone content, so not ideal for all cats.
- Canned fish with soft bones (like sardines) – These are pressure-cooked, making the bones soft and digestible. Still, always watch your cat while they eat.
The Risks of Feeding Bones to Cats: What You Really Need to Know
Feeding bones to cats might sound natural, but it comes with serious risks, some of which can be life-threatening. While a few raw bone types may seem safe in theory, even those require strict supervision and careful handling.
Here’s what can go wrong - and why vets often advise against it:
1. Choking and Blockages
Small bones or bone fragments can easily get lodged in a cat’s throat, causing choking or difficulty breathing. If swallowed, they might also block the stomach or intestines, which often requires surgery to fix. This isn’t just risky - it’s a medical emergency.
2. Sharp Fragments Can Cause Internal Injuries
Cooked bones are especially dangerous. They tend to splinter into sharp shards that can puncture a cat’s esophagus or intestines, leading to internal bleeding or infections like peritonitis. And even raw bones, if chewed improperly, can create similar issues.
3. Dental Damage from Hard Bones
Hard, weight-bearing bones (like beef leg bones) can be too dense for a cat’s teeth. Chewing on them can lead to cracked or broken teeth, painful for the cat, and expensive to fix.
4. Digestive Upset and Constipation
Not all cats digest bones well. Even if they manage to swallow them, their digestive system may struggle to break down bones. This can lead to vomiting, constipation, or worse - an intestinal blockage.
5. Bacteria in Raw Bones
Raw bones, especially if not handled or stored properly, can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli. These don’t just affect cats - humans handling contaminated bones are at risk too.
6. Portion Control and Bone Size Matter
Even “safe” raw bones like chicken necks or rabbit ribs carry risk if the size isn’t right for your cat. Large bones are too hard; tiny ones can be a choking hazard. And fish bones? They're thin and brittle, and often cause more trouble than they’re worth.
So, Are Bones Worth the Risk?
Unless you’re working with a vet or a pet nutritionist who understands raw feeding well, the risks often outweigh the benefits. For most cat owners, safer options like vet-approved dental treats or formulated raw diets offer a better, lower-risk alternative to bones.
Safer Alternatives to Bones: What Can Cats Chew Instead?
If bones feel like a gamble (and honestly, they often are), the good news is - there are plenty of safer options that still satisfy your cat’s need to chew, support their dental health, and meet their nutritional needs.
1. Dental Treats and Chews (That Actually Work)
Dental treats are designed to help reduce tartar and keep your cat’s teeth cleaner without the risk of splintering or choking. Look for products with a chewy texture - these massage the gums and gently clean the teeth as your cat chews.
For example, Michu AU’s dental-safe treats are made with high-quality ingredients and tailored for feline digestion and oral care. They’re an easy win for cats who like to chew but aren’t ideal candidates for bones.
2. Chew Toys for Cats
Yes, cats chew too! Soft rubber or silicone-based chew toys (often infused with catnip) are a safer way to support jaw activity and stress relief. While they’re not nutritional, they satisfy the behavioral urge to gnaw, minus the dental danger.
3. Balanced Diets That Include Natural Bone Nutrients
If you’re looking for nutritional benefits like calcium or glucosamine, which some cat owners try to get from bones, a complete cat food that includes these nutrients in safe, digestible forms is a better approach.
Many Michu AU wet and dry foods are formulated with these essential nutrients already built in, supporting everything from bone health to coat condition. This removes the guesswork and makes mealtimes both safe and nourishing.
4. Raw Diets - The Safer Way
If you’re set on raw feeding but want to avoid bones, some raw food blends include ground bone or bone meal in safe proportions. These are finely processed and far less likely to cause injury. Just make sure you choose a trusted brand that prioritizes food safety.
Cats don’t need bones to stay healthy. With the right alternatives, from vet-approved chews to high-quality food, you can give your cat all the benefits, without the dangers. Whether you're looking for a way to protect their teeth or boost their nutrition, it's safer (and smarter) to choose options that are designed with cats in mind.
How to Safely Introduce Bones to Cats (If You Still Want To)
If you're still considering feeding bones despite the risks, it's crucial to approach it responsibly. While some raw bones can be integrated into a cat’s diet, the process needs to be cautious, informed, and tailored to your cat’s health.
Here’s a practical, vet-informed guide to doing it as safely as possible:
1. Start with a Vet Check
Before anything else, talk to your vet - especially if your cat has dental issues, digestive sensitivity, or is new to raw feeding. Bones aren't suitable for every cat, and a vet can help you decide whether it's even worth the risk.
2. Choose the Right Bones
Go with:
- Raw, meaty, non-weight-bearing bones like chicken necks, wing tips, quail bones, or rabbit ribs.
Avoid:
- Cooked bones (they splinter).
- Large, hard bones (they can crack teeth or block airways).
- Bare bones without meat (they’re more likely to cause injury).
3. Introduce Slowly and Watch Closely
Don’t rush. Offer a small bone once or twice a week and observe:
- Is your cat chewing thoroughly?
- Do they try to swallow large pieces?
- Are they showing signs of discomfort or digestive issues after?
Always supervise your cat during feeding. If anything seems off, stop immediately.
4. Mind the Portion and Frequency
Bones should only make up a small part of a cat’s diet - not a staple.
For adults, that’s roughly 5–6% of their food intake. For kittens, it may be slightly higher due to calcium needs - but this should always be based on a vet's guidance.
5. Stay Hygienic
Handle raw bones like raw meat:
- Freeze them for a couple of days before feeding to reduce bacterial risks.
- Thaw properly.
- Clean all surfaces and bowls after feeding.
- Discard uneaten bone within 20–30 minutes.
6. Watch for Red Flags
Even with all precautions, issues can still happen. Look out for:
- Gagging or choking
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Blood in stool or signs of constipation
- Broken teeth or mouth injuries
- Sudden drop in energy or appetite
If anything feels off, contact your vet right away.
7. Still Worried? Use Safer Alternatives
Ground bone meal, soft dental chews, or complete raw diets (like those from AAFCO-compliant brands) offer a safer way to include essential minerals without the risk of choking or injury.
Feeding bones to cats isn't something to take lightly. It can be done with care - but it should never be done casually. If you’re committed to trying it, start small, stay informed, and always put safety first.