AITA for calling ourselves vegan?

Picture a cozy vegan kitchen, filled with the scent of fresh herbs and simmering lentils, now disrupted by an unexpected guest: raw chicken necks. For one couple, devoted vegans and proud cat parents, their commitment to their rescued feline’s health has stirred a storm among friends. When their cat’s sore teeth made kibble a struggle, they followed the vet’s advice to try raw meat, only to be branded “fake vegans” by horrified guests.

This clash of ideals and pet love brews a relatable tale of loyalty—to both principles and a furry companion. As accusations fly and friendships fray, the couple’s story pulls us into the heart of a moral dilemma: can you stay true to veganism while feeding your carnivorous cat? With Reddit buzzing, this narrative captures the messy balance of ethics and responsibility.

‘AITA for calling ourselves vegan?’

Choosing pet food shouldn’t feel like defusing a bomb, but for this vegan couple, it’s a minefield of judgment. Their decision to feed their cat raw meat, guided by a vet, prioritizes her health over strict vegan ideals. Yet, their friends’ outrage highlights a tension: can personal ethics bend for a pet’s needs without betraying core beliefs?

This scenario reflects broader debates within veganism about pet ownership. A 2021 study in Animals journal found 35% of vegan pet owners struggle with feeding meat-based diets, citing ethical discomfort. The couple’s choice to use chicken byproducts—parts often discarded—shows pragmatic care, not hypocrisy. Their cat, an obligate carnivore, can’t thrive on plants, unlike humans.

Dr. Patty Khuly, a veterinarian, states, “Cats require meat to meet their nutritional needs; denying this can lead to serious health issues” . Her perspective underscores the couple’s responsible choice, aligning with animal welfare over rigid ideology. The friends’ criticism seems more about gatekeeping veganism than genuine concern.

To move forward, the couple could explain their vet-driven decision calmly, emphasizing their cat’s unique needs. Hosting a meat-free dinner to refocus on shared values might ease tensions. Their approach shows veganism can coexist with pet care, proving love for animals sometimes means messy compromises.

Heres what people had to say to OP:

Reddit didn’t hold back, dishing out support with a side of snark for this vegan pet saga. From cheers to jabs at the friends’ logic, here’s the unfiltered scoop from the crowd:

These Redditors rallied behind the couple, praising their pet care and slamming the friends’ sanctimonious stance. Some called the accusations absurd, while others urged cutting ties with such rigid critics. But do these fiery takes capture the full picture, or are they just fanning the drama?

This vegan-versus-cat tale proves principles can get tangled in the fur of real life. The couple’s choice to prioritize their cat’s health over ideological purity shows love doesn’t always fit neat labels. As friends draw battle lines, the story asks us to weigh ethics against responsibility. Have you ever faced a clash between your beliefs and a loved one’s needs? Share your thoughts—what would you do in this couple’s shoes?