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Cats can enjoy many foods, either cooked or raw. But they are more likely to eat meat due to the fact that they are carnivores.
Despite this fact, it is not a guarantee that all sources of meat are appropriate to feed them.
In this article, we’ll take a look and see if turkey is safe for cats.
Can cats eat turkey?
The short answer is yes, but there are conditions attached to this.
First, it’s highly recommended to serve turkey fully cooked, as raw turkey comes with the risk of bacterial contamination such as Salmonella.
Second, the turkey should be served unseasoned and without skin or bones. It is preferred that the turkey be served to the cat when in its natural state, thus avoiding it as an ingredient in a compound food.
When cooked, serving it with other spices, sauces, butter, or anything else is not advisable. These additives have too many fats which are not good for a cat’s growth.
Spices such as garlic and onions are known to be poisonous to cats and should not be added when serving a cat with turkey. Similarly, adding sodium to turkey is not good since it causes heart problems and a rise in blood pressure.
We know that cats can safely eat unseasoned turkey, but are all parts of the turkey good for cat consumption? Let’s look:
Can cats eat turkey bones?
Turkey bones, particularly cooked bones, are not safe for cats as they can split and puncture the esophagus and the lining of the cat’s stomach. They can even choke a cat or block the intestines.
This is why you should remove the bones before giving the flesh to your cat.
Can cats eat turkey hearts?
A turkey’s heart is a rich source of taurine which is very beneficial for a cat’s development. It’s good for the reproductive, respiratory, and other systems in the cat’s body.
Having said this, it is advisable to serve a cat with small quantities of it; excess can cause allergies or problems such as high blood pressure due to its fat content.
Can cats eat turkey dark meat?
Cats can safely eat the dark meat of a turkey. Just make sure to serve it in moderation due to its higher fat content.
Can cats eat turkey breast?
Yes, they can, but remember the conditions mentioned above.
Turkey breast is ideal for cats as it is high in protein and relatively low in fat. It is a rich source of B vitamins which are fundamental to cellular function and the transport of nutrients through the body.
Can cats eat turkey liver?
Small amounts of turkey liver are okay for your cat.
Giving it in excess can cause vitamin A toxicity. This condition can seriously affect a cat’s bones and even lead to death in extreme cases.
Conclusion
Like most other foods, a cat won’t pass up an opportunity to enjoy turkey. Just keep a close watch on the amount you give to your cat — too much can lead to an upset stomach, pancreatitis, or diarrhea, among other things.
Also avoid feeding your cat processed “cold cut” turkey or canned turkey, as this is very high in sodium and preservatives.
Remember that it’s natural for a cat to have a lean diet that is high in protein but low in fats and carbs. Turkey can help contribute to this diet when served the right way.
Thanks for reading. Are you considering feeding your cat turkey? Feel free to share your situation in the comments below.
