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Can Cats Eat Turkey?

Can Cats Eat Turkey?

The short answer: Yes.

The long answer: Derived from domesticated or wild turkey, turkey is a type of poultry that contains protein, niacin, selenium, and vitamin B6. Similar to cooked chicken, its lean parts may be eaten by cats as long as they are prepared the right way. 

On the other hand, raw turkey is not recommended for cat consumption since they may contain harmful pathogens that lead to food poisoning. E. coli and salmonella are common examples of bacteria that may easily spread from feline pets to their owners. Aside from these, parasites may also be found in uncooked turkey meat.    

How to feed turkey to your cat: Boil or poach your turkey in water without adding seasonings. You can also bake it as long as you don’t mix in toxic ingredients such as salt, garlic, and onion. Select the breast part and let it cool. Take off the skin and bones, and slice the meat into smaller portions before feeding. 

When feeding her turkey for the first time, give your cat one piece and observe how her body reacts to it in the next 24 hours. If no symptoms appear, you can give her a bigger serving the next time around.  

Here are three ideas for turkey treats your cat will love:

  1. Replace chicken with turkey to make this cat-approved stew.
  2. Try whipping up these no-bake pumpkin and turkey cat treats
  3. These grain-free meaties can be eaten by both cats and dogs. 

In summary: As obligate carnivores, cats will thrive when they are given complete and balanced meals consisting mostly of protein. Lean, cooked turkey is a welcome addition to your cat’s daily diet as long as your veterinarian approves of it. 

References: 

People Foods Cats Can Eat

Can My Cat Eat That? 30 Foods Cats Can and Can’t Eat

What Kinds of Meats Can Cats Eat?



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