As of late September 2024, an outbreak of Listeria bacterial infections across 19 states had led to the hospitalization of at least 59 people and the deaths of 10. So, just how could this impact our pets?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is still investigating the outbreak, which has been traced back to sliced deli meats. Listeria isn’t just dangerous to people — it can cause serious infections in dogs and sometimes cats, too. In general, bacterial infections tend to affect both animals and humans — especially those who are young, elderly, pregnant or otherwise immunocompromised.

So, it’s best not to give your pet deli meats. Even in the best of times, their high salt and preservative content makes them less-than-ideal pet treats.