Articles

Turkey Tips for Pets: Is Turkey Safe for Your Dog or Cat?

by Blair Nicole PR, Marketing

Pets are members of the family and when the Thanksgiving holiday arrives, you may want to share your special turkey dinner with them. Should cats and dogs be allowed to eat turkey? The following explains how to serve this nutritious meat to your furry friends.


Turkey Tips

The high-quality protein in turkey supports the immune systems of cats and dogs and helps them to maintain their muscle mass. It also contains the minerals magnesium, potassium, zinc and selenium and provides B-vitamins. Turkey does have some drawbacks and to avoid any health hazards, use this checklist:

White meat only. This is the healthiest part of the bird because it is lower in fat and calories and contains more protein than dark meat. Trim off any extra fat before serving.

Get rid of the skin. Turkey skin contains an extreme amount of fat that may lead to acute pancreatitis in cats and dogs, which can be life-threatening. In addition, the skin is often treated with spices that are toxic to your pets. For this reason, gravy should be avoided as well.

No bones. Cats and dogs should not be given turkey bones to chew on. They can cause choking and may also become lodged in the digestive tract. Cooked bones may splinter and lead to dangerous internal tearing and bleeding, requiring lifesaving surgery. 

Hold the stuffing. Even when it is cooked separately from the turkey, stuffing often contains scallions, shallots and garlic, all of which are toxic to your cats and dogs. 

Start small. If your pets have not eaten turkey before, it is best to start with a small amount to see how well they digest it. A new food may cause stomach issues, and you should be prepared for the possibility. You should consider testing your pet's tolerance to turkey before the big day arrives. This will avoid unpleasant distractions from the celebration.


Pet Friendly Holiday Feast

While your dog or cat may eat turkey at any time by consuming an organic diet, a special holiday meal may be enjoyed by following this plan:

Fully cooked, white-meat turkey without fat or skin

• Plain vegetables such as zucchini, carrots or green beans

• Cooked and mashed sweet or white potatoes without butter or spices

• Small amount of plain canned pumpkin 


The vegetables should be uncooked and run through a food processor until very small and coarse. The canned pumpkin should not be pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugar and spices that may upset digestion or cause toxicity. Limit your pet to a small plate of this meal and return them to their regular diet the next day. 


Thanksgiving is a time for being grateful for all the abundance that life offers, including your pets. Following the tips above will ensure many happy holidays together in the years to come.


Sponsor Ads


About Blair Nicole Innovator   PR, Marketing

17 connections, 0 recommendations, 76 honor points.
Joined APSense since, May 16th, 2017, From Utah, United States.

Created on Dec 31st 1969 18:00. Viewed 0 times.

Comments

No comment, be the first to comment.
Please sign in before you comment.