Can Cats Eat Cooked Chicken?

The short answer: Yes and no.

The long answer: Cats are obligate carnivores. They need a lot of protein in their diet to thrive. Chicken falls under animal-based meat that cats can safely consume, provided they are not served raw. When cooked correctly, chicken is a great source of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that all help your cat’s circulatory system, eyesight, and reproductive system. 

How to feed cooked chicken to your cat: Clean the chicken and boil it in a pot with water. Do not include harmful ingredients such as garlic, onion, and salt, as these spices can make her vomit or experience the runs. Boil it until the meat turns white. Before serving it to your cat, remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat into smaller, bite-sized portions. Grilled chicken can also be served to cats as long as no spices were added while grilling it. Refrain from giving your cat deep fried, breaded, or heavily seasoned chicken. 

As for chicken parts, limit her intake of the liver. Too much of it may cause vitamin A toxicity that can lead to deformed bones, bone growths on the elbows and spine, and osteoporosis. 

Check if your cat is allergic to chicken by initially giving her a small portion and observing how her body reacts to it. If no symptoms appear within 24 hours, you can give her a bigger serving the next time around. 

Here are three ideas for cooked chicken treats your cat will love:

1. This quick and easy cat food is made up of chicken thighs, vegetables, sardines, olive oil, and fresh herbs. 
2. Boiled rice and boiled chicken can help soothe a cat’s digestive system. Serve this to her the next time she gets diarrhea.
3. Your cat will enjoy snacking on baked chicken and cranberry treats.

In summary: Your cat will benefit from eating flavourless cooked chicken because it is packed with amino acids, which can help build muscle tissue and maintain bone density. Low in fat and calories, chicken also provides vitamins and minerals that are involved in brain function.  

References: 

People Foods Cats Can Eat

What are the Health Benefits of Eating Chicken?

Giving a Cat Boiled Chicken

Foods Your Cat Should Never Eat