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Thanksgiving is coming up soon, and you may have started thinking about the menu, which most likely includes a roast turkey. The crispy skin and juicy meat make Thanksgiving the best holiday meal, but the aromas of the food will draw the family’s cats to the table, especially the meaty centerpiece!
Turkey is safe for cats to eat, though there are a few things to keep in mind. However, it will be fun for you and your pet to share a piece of the bird together.
Almost any meat is healthy for cats because they are obligate carnivores, and cat food manufacturers commonly include turkey as a source of protein in their recipes. When shared as a treat, turkey can be a low-fat, low-calorie alternative to commercial treats. On top of that, it has significant health benefits for your kitty.
Ah, Thanksgiving. A time for family friends and of course, delicious food. But what about our furry feline friends? Can they join in on the feast, or should they stick to their regular kibble? And if they do indulge in some turkey, will it make them sleepy?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of cat sleepiness and explore the relationship between turkey consumption and feline slumber We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about cats and turkey, so you can make informed decisions about your cat’s diet and well-being
Can Cats Eat Turkey?
The short answer is yes, cats can eat turkey. In fact, turkey can be a healthy and delicious treat for your feline friend. Turkey is a good source of protein, which is essential for cats of all ages. It’s also low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for cats who are overweight or obese.
How Much Turkey Can I Give My Cat?
While turkey is a healthy treat for cats, it’s important to feed it in moderation. Too much turkey can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and even pancreatitis. A good rule of thumb is to give your cat no more than two or three pieces of turkey the size of your thumbnail, once or twice a week.
Does Turkey Make Cats Sleepy?
Turkey contains an amino acid called tryptophan, which is known to have a calming effect on both humans and animals. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. So, it’s possible that eating turkey could make your cat feel sleepy.
However, it’s important to note that tryptophan is not the only factor that affects sleepiness. Other factors, such as the amount of exercise your cat gets and their overall health, also play a role. So, while turkey may contribute to sleepiness, it’s unlikely to be the sole cause.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can cats be allergic to turkey?
Yes, cats can be allergic to turkey. Cats who have a turkey allergy may experience diarrhea, vomiting, and itchy skin. Consult your veterinarian if you suspect your cat may be allergic to turkey.
- Is it okay to give my cat pieces of our Thanksgiving turkey?
Yes, you can feed your cat small portions of your Thanksgiving meal that are simply cooked turkey. But, since these can be toxic to cats, refrain from giving them any turkey that has been seasoned with onions, garlic, or other spices.
- What other foods can make cats sleepy?
In addition to turkey, other foods that can make cats sleepy include tuna, salmon, and chicken. These foods are high in protein and tryptophan, which can contribute to sleepiness.
So, does turkey make cats sleepy? The answer is maybe. While turkey contains tryptophan, which can have a calming effect, it’s unlikely to be the sole cause of sleepiness in cats. Other factors, such as exercise and overall health, also play a role.
It’s always advisable to speak with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your cat’s excessive sleepiness. They can assist you in figuring out the reason behind your cat’s drowsiness and suggest the best line of action.
Additional Resources:
How much turkey can I give my cat?
It’s important to remember that only plain, simply-cooked turkey, preferably breast meat, should be offered to your cat. They should stay away from eating any of the fatty parts, skin, or seasoned areas—especially when onion and garlic are used as seasonings—and should only eat small amounts of dark meat or unseasoned giblets. Cats should also stay away from processed foods made with turkey or deli sandwich turkey due to the high amounts of sodium, garlic, onions, and nitrates in these foods. Ground turkey is also fine if it’s cooked without seasoning or sauces.
We recommend two to three thumbnail-sized pieces served as a treat once or twice a week. So how much turkey is safe? Treats should comprise 10% or less of your cat’s total food intake of calories. Naturally, your cat will eat a lot more than this if turkey is one of their staple foods. When cooking your cat’s homemade meals, ask your veterinarian about the ideal serving size of turkey for them.
Do cats like turkey?
Due to personal taste, some cats may object to the mention of turkey; after all, different people have different dietary preferences. But fur most, turkey is a welcome addition to their day-to-day diets. And plain, home-cooked turkey treats are best of all. Although cats that overindulge may develop pancreatitis, diarrhea, and upset stomachs, there’s no reason not to give your pet this delectable celebratory food.
If your adorable pet eats any turkey, it may even prefer processed turkey bacon, bologna, or ham. However, you should limit your cat’s treats to cooked, unseasoned turkey because these products may contain unhealthy ingredients. Even though raw turkey might taste good to you, it can spread salmonella or campylobacter infections.
