Part of the fun of the holidays is sharing it with our pets. The smells of our holiday foods can get our pets seriously salivating and treats left laying open on the counter or table may prove too tempting.
It is possible to share some holiday foods with our pets, like unseasoned turkey, or plain veggies, but there are some foods we need to make sure our pets do not ingest.
Come holiday season, many pet owners want to share special treats with their furry companions. A tasty turkey wing may seem like the perfect gift for your dog. But are those bony wings safe and healthy for canine consumption? Let’s explore the potential benefits and risks of feeding dogs turkey wings.
An Overview of Turkey Wings
Turkey wings are the wing portions of a turkey, composed of bones, cartilage, skin, and dark meat. The bones are small but dense, while the cartilage can be rubbery. The wings provide more fat and calories than white breast meat.
Nutritional Value
Turkey wings offer protein, vitamins, minerals, and glucosamine from the cartilage So they can provide nutritional value
Enjoyable Chew
The wings give dogs a long-lasting, appealing chew they’ll find hard to resist. The gnawing scrapes away plaque too.
Low-Calorie Meat
Compared to beef or pork, turkey is a lower calorie option, so wings may help with weight control.
Potential Benefits of Turkey Wings for Dogs
There are some advantages to occasionally feeding your dog turkey wings in moderation:
- Nutritious protein from the lean meat
- Natural source of glucosamine from the cartilage
- Promotes dental health by scraping plaque off teeth
- Provides a tasty, satisfying chew
- Lower in fat and calories than many other meat options
So turkey wings can offer nutritional value, dental benefits, and enjoyment as part of a balanced diet. But proper preparation and portion control are crucial.
Risks and Dangers Associated With Turkey Wings
While turkey wings can provide benefits, they also pose some notable risks for dogs:
- Bones may splinter and cause lacerations or obstructions
- Can present a choking hazard if large chunks are swallowed
- Bones could potentially puncture the esophagus, stomach or intestines
- Fatty skin may trigger pancreatitis in prone dogs
- Wing bones are more hazardous than larger bones
Because of these risks, turkey wings should only be fed occasionally and with great care.
Tips for Safely Feeding Turkey Wings to Dogs
If you do choose to share turkey wings with your dog, follow these tips to reduce risks:
- Hold the wing and let your dog nibble off small bits of meat
- Remove skin and excess fat to prevent pancreatitis
- Cook wings thoroughly until meat is very tender
- Supervise constantly to monitor chewing and gobbling
- Avoid giving wings to young puppies or dogs prone to gulping food
- Introduce wings slowly and limit to one or two per month
- Never leave dogs unsupervised with any bones
Proper preparation, portion control, and supervision are key to safe turkey wing consumption.
Signs of Trouble After Eating Turkey Wings
Monitor your dog closely after eating turkey wings. Call your vet promptly if you notice:
- Repeated swallowing or gagging, which could indicate choking
- Panting or difficulty breathing, a sign of airway obstruction
- Whining or restlessness, signalling discomfort
- Lack of appetite or lethargy, suggesting GI issues
- Vomiting or dry heaving
- Bloody stool or dark, tarry feces indicating internal injury
- Evidence of pain or distress
Don’t wait if your dog exhibits any of these symptoms after consuming turkey bones. Call your vet without delay. Time is critical with obstructions or perforations.
Turkey wings: 20
Dogs: 18
Bones: 12
Meat: 5
Risks: 5
Benefits: 4
Safety: 4
Can dogs and cats eat turkey?
Turkey is ok for cats and dogs, but if it is cooked, it should be an unseasoned portion, preferably from the breast. Do not feed your pet cooked turkey wings or drumsticks because cooked bones splinter easily and can cut and puncture your pet’s digestive system. Please do not feed your dog or cat any cooked bones – that includes turkey, chicken, pork, lamb and beef bones. If you are feeding your dog or cat cooked turkey or ham over the holidays, please ensure there are no bones.
What sweets are toxic for dogs and cats?
Most people know that chocolates are poisonous to dogs, but you may not know you also need to keep chocolate away from cats. As well, raisins are toxic and can be fatal for pets. Lastly, check if there is xylitol in any of your treats. This sweetener is poisonous and possibly deadly for pets. It’s important to keep your treats hidden somewhere your pets cannot get into.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey Bones? Yes and No!
FAQ
Can dogs eat cooked turkey wings?
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Dangerous bones:Cooked turkey bones, including those in wings, can splinter easily when chewed by a dog, causing potential injuries to their mouth, throat, and intestines.
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Safe option:If you want to give your dog turkey, stick to boneless, well-cooked turkey breast meat with no added seasonings.
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Consult your vet:Always consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new food, including turkey, to ensure it’s suitable for their individual needs.
Do turkey wing bones splinter?
Small bones and cartilage are choking hazards, and as stated by itshope already, they can splinter easily. Turkeys have many more hard “bits” when compared to chickens as well.
Can I give my dog turkey drumsticks?
Yes, dogs can eat turkey—and it can be considered healthy for dogs—as long as it’s prepared safely and served in small portions.Sep 23, 2024
Is cooked turkey ok for dogs?
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No bones or skin:Always remove bones and skin from the turkey before feeding it to your dog, as these can be choking hazards or cause digestive issues.
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Plain cooking:Do not add any seasonings, spices, or other ingredients to the turkey.
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Small portions:Turkey should be given as a treat in small amounts and not as a primary meal replacement.
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Consult your vet:If you have any concerns about feeding your dog turkey, always consult your veterinarian, especially if your dog has any pre-existing health conditions.