Can Kittens Eat Turkey?

Turkey is a lean, protein-rich meat that can make a healthy delicious treat for kittens in moderation. As obligate carnivores kittens require a diet high in animal protein to thrive. Turkey provides high-quality protein, as well as important vitamins and minerals.

However, there are some precautions to take when feeding turkey to kittens:

Benefits of Turkey for Kittens

Turkey contains many nutrients that support kitten health

• Protein – Kittens need a diet high in protein for growth and development. Turkey is an excellent source of high-quality, animal-based protein.

• B Vitamins – Turkey contains several B vitamins including niacin B6, and B12. These support metabolic processes and help kittens convert food into energy.

• Selenium – This essential mineral supports thyroid and immune system function in kittens.

• Phosphorus – Needed for bone formation and growth, phosphorus is abundant in turkey.

• Potassium – Important for hydration, nerve and muscle function, potassium is plentiful in turkey.

• Sodium – This mineral helps regulate fluid balance and is found in turkey.

• Magnesium – Supports over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. Turkey provides this essential mineral.

• Zinc – Turkey contains zinc, which aids immune function and wound healing in kittens.

• Iron – Found in higher amounts in dark turkey meat, iron helps form hemoglobin to transport oxygen through the body.

• Taurine – This amino acid, found in turkey organs and dark meat, is essential for vision and heart health in kittens.

How Much Turkey Can Kittens Eat?

While turkey can be a healthy treat for kittens, too much can cause gastrointestinal upset. Follow these tips:

• Only feed cooked, plain turkey with no seasonings, bones, skin or fat.

• Aim for just 1-2 thumb-sized (1 inch cube) pieces per day as an occasional treat.

• Turkey should not exceed 10% of the kitten’s total daily calories.

• For kittens, treats like turkey should be minimal until 6 months old. Their diet should be primarily kitten food.

• Avoid deli meats, turkey bacon, hot dogs and sausages which contain excess fat, salt and preservatives.

How to Choose and Prepare Turkey for Kittens

When selecting and preparing turkey for your kitten:

• Purchase fresh, plain turkey with no seasoning or injection of broths/solutions.

• Cook turkey thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F. Kittens should not eat raw turkey due to bacteria risks.

• White breast meat is leanest. Dark meat is fattier but provides more beneficial nutrients like iron and B vitamins. Both are good options.

• Roast, bake, broil or boil turkey pieces. Avoid frying which adds unhealthy fats.

• Let cooked turkey cool completely before feeding to kittens.

• Remove all skin, fat, bones, and cartilage before feeding. These can pose choking hazards or cause pancreatitis.

• Refrigerate any uneaten turkey promptly and avoid leaving it out over 2 hours. Discard any turkey that smells bad or is moldy.

Signs of an Allergic Reaction

Some kittens may be allergic to turkey. Monitor for these signs:

• Itchy skin, excessive licking/biting at skin

• Hair loss

• Wheezing or coughing

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Swelling of face/muzzle

• Eye discharge

If you observe any reaction after feeding turkey, stop giving it and see your veterinarian.

Answering Common Questions on Turkey for Kittens

Can kittens eat leftover Thanksgiving turkey?

Yes, as long as it is cooked, boneless, skinless, unseasoned, cooled white or dark meat. Avoid gravy, stuffing, skin and seasoned areas.

Is deli turkey okay for kittens?

No. Deli meats contain excessive sodium, preservatives, and nitrites that are unhealthy for kittens. Stick to plain cooked turkey.

Can I feed my kitten raw turkey?
Raw turkey may contain Salmonella or other bacteria harmful to kittens. Cook turkey thoroughly before feeding.

What about turkey bones or skin?
Never feed turkey bones or skin, which can splinter and cause internal injury or pancreatitis.

Is turkey bacon or sausage safe for kittens?
No. These are high in fat, salt and preservatives. Kittens should only eat plain cooked turkey meat.

Will turkey make my kitten sleepy?
The amino acid tryptophan in turkey may have a mild calming effect. But the small treat amounts fed to kittens are unlikely to cause drowsiness.

Can I season the turkey I give my kitten?
Do not add any spices, herbs, onion, garlic or salt to the turkey, as these can cause stomach upset in kittens. Only feed plain cooked turkey.

How often can kittens have turkey?
Treat kittens to a couple small pieces of turkey 1-2 times per week at most. Turkey should not regularly replace their normal kitten food.

The Verdict on Turkey for Kittens

In conclusion, plain cooked turkey makes a tasty, nutritious occasional treat for kittens in small quantities. Make sure to only feed boneless, skinless cooked turkey with no seasonings or additives. Since kittens have sensitive stomachs, monitor for any signs of an allergy or intolerance. Turkey can provide healthy protein and nutrients when fed properly and in moderation. Discuss with your veterinarian how much turkey is appropriate based on your kitten’s age, weight and health status.