Why?
Burgers often come with raw or fried onion, and sauces like ketchup or burger sauce frequently contain onion or garlic powder, both toxic to cats. The patty is salted and peppered, sometimes mixed with onion, while melted cheese and bacon pile on fat and salt. The bun just adds sugar and carbs.
How much?
Don't give your cat a burger. If you make patties at home, set aside a small piece cooked with no salt or seasoning: that's a real treat.
The risks
- Anemia if onion or garlic is in the patty or sauces
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Pancreatitis from the fat
- Too much salt
Your cat ate some: what now?
Call your vet without waiting for symptoms if your cat ate onions, sauce or a good part of the burger. Tell them what was in it, and don't try to make your cat vomit. For a small bite of bun or plain patty, just watch your cat for 48 hours.
Better options
A bit of plain, well-cooked ground beef with no salt gives the same pleasure without the risks. Plain cooked chicken works great too.
Common questions
Can cats eat hamburger meat?
Yes, if it's fully cooked and plain, with no salt, pepper or onion. It's the seasoning and toppings that cause problems, not the beef itself.
Can cats eat raw hamburger meat?
It's not recommended. Raw ground beef can carry bacteria like salmonella or E. coli, which can make both your cat and your household sick. Cook it through first.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.