Providing the best available cat foods to our beloved furry ball is a permanent wish for almost any cat parent. Sometimes, there are exceptional times we try to test other food choices. During these thoughts, canned chicken can be a considerable choice in your mind. Well, is it really okay?
Can cats eat canned chicken?
Yes, they can. But not as a daily meal similar to your specially designed cat food items in the kitchen.
Are there any precautions?
The most important question is, is it safe to eat canned chicken? Based on the findings from other cat parents, research journals, forums, and vets, it turns out to be safe for most cats. However, it’s not suitable for some cats due to potential side effects or allergies.
Some canned chicken tends to use sodium to increase water content, hence increasing the weight. It is better to avoid canned chickens with high sodium content.
What happens if you overfeed canned chicken to your cat?
Overfeeding canned chicken to your cat can lead to health issues due to the reduced moisture content. Cats obtain a significant portion of their water intake through their food. Feeding them canned chicken or any other canned food without sufficient moisture content can result in diarrhea, diabetes, heat stroke, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism. Dehydration can also occur, which can lead to various health problems. Cats need 3.4 – 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight daily. Wet cat food, which is about 70-80% water, is the best way to provide this moisture requirement.
Can cats eat canned meat?
Cats can safely consume canned meat that is designed for human consumption. Since cats are carnivores, there shouldn’t be any issues with meat products. However, raw meat is a tricky option as it can contain harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, or listeria. Canned meat has an advantage over raw meat as it goes through a well-cleaned process before packaging, minimizing the risk of bacterial contamination. Make sure to check the expiration date before serving canned meat to your cat.
Canned chicken compounds
Chicken has a quality nutrition profile, primarily enriched with protein. It is a great ingredient to help your cat maintain a healthy weight. It also contains essential nutrients like selenium, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and taurine, which can improve immune systems, muscle build-up, and bone and teeth health.
The proper way of giving canned chicken to your cat
If you decide to give canned chicken to your cat, it’s important to do it properly. Give small amounts of canned chicken, similar to treats. Avoid adding oils or seasoning to the chicken, as they can be harmful to your cat. Boil chicken parts thoroughly or cook them without onions or garlic, which are toxic to cats. Never feed expired chicken products to your cat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I feed my cat chicken every day?
No, you should not. Continuous or everyday feeding of canned chicken can cause moisture problems and limit certain nutrients in your cat’s diet. Canned chicken is not a balanced food for cats and should only be used as a treat or occasional meal.
Can cats eat canned chicken breast?
Yes, cats can eat canned chicken breast. It is a good source of protein, especially compared to other meat parts.
Can cats eat canned chicken for humans?
Yes, they can. However, canned chicken for humans lacks several properties that should be in cat food, and it is not a balanced meal for cats. Use it occasionally.
Can cats eat canned chicken broth?
Feeding salty chicken broth can disrupt the electrolyte balance in a cat’s body, and commercial chicken broth is not recommended as it often contains garlic, sodium, onion, and other ingredients that can harm your cat.
Conclusion
After reviewing reports, experiences, and recommendations from experts, it seems that canned chicken is a good food option for cats. However, it’s essential to follow the proper guidelines to reduce the risk of side effects due to overfeeding. Always prioritize your cat’s health and well-being when considering any changes in their diet.
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References:
- Krista Williams, BSc, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM, Medical Conditions, Zoonosis & Human Health, Pet Services, Diarrhea in Cats
- Chronic Kidney Disease, Cornell Feline Health Center, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- The Nutritional Value of Chicken, National Chicken Council
- Featured Image Credit: Hotash