The Thanksgiving feast is upon us, and with it comes the inevitable question: can our feline companions partake in the delicious bounty? While turkey is generally safe for cats, there are certain parts that require caution, and turkey gizzards and necks are no exception
The Gizzards: A Crunchy Treat with a Caveat
Gizzards are the muscular stomachs of birds, responsible for grinding up food. They are packed with nutrients like protein, iron, and vitamins, making them a potentially healthy snack for cats However, gizzards are also tough and chewy, posing a choking hazard for smaller felines.
Here’s how to safely prepare gizzards for your cat:
- Cook them thoroughly: Raw gizzards can harbor bacteria that are harmful to cats. Boil, bake, or grill the gizzards until they are fully cooked through.
- Cut them into small pieces: This will make them easier for your cat to chew and swallow, reducing the risk of choking.
- Start with a small amount: Introduce gizzards to your cat’s diet gradually, starting with a small piece to see how they react.
- Monitor your cat closely: While gizzards are generally safe for cats, some may experience digestive upset or allergies. Watch for any signs of discomfort, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, and discontinue feeding gizzards if necessary.
The Necks: A Bony Delight with Caution
Turkey necks are another Thanksgiving staple that can be enjoyed by cats. They are a good source of protein and calcium, and their chewy texture can provide dental benefits. However, turkey necks also contain small bones that can pose a choking hazard or cause internal injuries.
Here’s how to safely prepare turkey necks for your cat:
- Remove the skin: The skin on turkey necks is high in fat, which can be unhealthy for cats.
- Cut the neck into small pieces: This will make it easier for your cat to chew and swallow, reducing the risk of choking.
- Crush the bones: Use a mallet or rolling pin to crush the bones in the neck pieces. This will make them less likely to splinter and cause internal injuries.
- Supervise your cat while they eat: Even with precautions, there is still a risk of choking on bones. Keep a close eye on your cat while they are enjoying their turkey neck treat.
Additional Considerations
- Moderation is key: While turkey gizzards and necks can be a healthy treat for cats, they should not be a staple of their diet. Too much of these parts can lead to digestive upset or nutritional imbalances.
- Consult your veterinarian: If you have any concerns about feeding turkey gizzards or necks to your cat, consult your veterinarian. They can advise you on the best way to prepare these treats and ensure they are safe for your feline friend.
Turkey gizzards and necks can be a delicious and nutritious treat for cats, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure their safety. By following the tips above, you can help your cat enjoy the Thanksgiving feast without any unwanted side effects.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your furry companions!
Keep One Eye OpenWhile you’re in your post-dinner turkey haze, keep one eye on any turkey remains disposed of in the trash. While tempting for your pet, the cooked carcass causes concern mainly because, as most of us know, the cooked bones do not digest in our pet’s digestive system and can penetrate or puncture the intestinal wall. When poultry bones have been cooked, their chemical makeup also changes, making them no longer pliable cartilage but sharp daggers ready to do harm.
Pets do not need the meat cooked in order to digest it. From personal experience, I found that most pets don’t do well with cooked turkey from our Thanksgiving meals. Since our pets aren’t accustomed to the extra condiments, most Thanksgiving dinner cooks like to baste their turkey with butter and oils, which can upset their stomachs. For pets with potential sensitivities, the cooked skin may be problematic, and the excess fat may cause a pancreatitis attack.
Cooking chicken gizzards for my cats|Homemade cat food|
Can cats eat turkey gizzards?
Turkey gizzards are a common ingredient in many commercial cat foods. They’re an excellent source of protein and essential nutrients for cats. However, some people worry that turkey gizzards may be harmful to cats. There’s no need to worry, though, as turkey gizzards are perfectly safe for cats.
Can cats eat turkey giblets?
To ensure your cat’s safety, it’s best to cook turkey giblets thoroughly before serving. Cooking eliminates harmful bacteria and enhances the flavour, making it a safe and satisfying treat for your furry companion. So, while your cat can certainly relish turkey giblets, always remember to cook them well.
Why do cats eat gizzards?
Bursting with vitamins A, B-complex, and D and essential minerals such as iron and copper, it fortifies your cat’s immune system, bestows them with radiant skin and fur, and aids in smooth digestion. The gizzard, a robust muscular organ, serves as a food processor for birds and supplies your cat with dietary fibre.
Can cats eat chicken giblets?
The gizzard even contributes dietary fibre for digestive health. Ensure the chicken giblets are thoroughly cooked and bone-free, as cooked bones can be dangerous. Your cat will likely enjoy the taste of chicken giblets as a unique, love-infused treat.