As a pet parent, understanding your feline buddy’s dietary needs can be a bit tricky. Certain foods that are safe and beneficial for humans may not be ideal for our feline companions. One food that often sparks a lot of confusion among cat owners is chicken gizzard. While some people swear by chicken gizzard as a protein-rich supplement to a cat’s regular diet, others are concerned that chicken gizzard could be toxic or harmful to cats. The question now becomes: Can cats eat chicken gizzard? Is chicken gizzard safe for cats to eat?
Cats can eat chicken gizzard as it is a great source of protein and contains other essential nutrients they need to thrive. So read on to learn the benefits and risks of feeding your cat chicken gizzards and how to prepare them properly for your feline.
What Are Chicken Gizzards?
For people who may not know, chicken gizzard is a muscular organ in a chicken’s digestive tract. The chicken gizzard is located between the chicken’s crop and stomach. It is used to grind food into small pieces for easy digestion. It is also high in protein and other essential nutrients.
Can Cats Eat Chicken Gizzards?
Yes, cats can eat chicken gizzards as they are a great source of protein and other essential nutrients for your cat’s health. They also contain vitamins like B12 and iron that help keep your cat healthy. Additionally, the texture of chicken gizzards makes it easier to chew than other poultry meats.
What Nutrients Are In Chicken Gizzards?
Chicken gizzards are very nutritious. They’re full of protein, low in fat, and a great source of vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, which are important for overall health and well-being. They’re also carbohydrate-free and are low in calories. According to the USDA, a 100-gram portion of chicken gizzards contains 17.7 grams of protein, 94 calories, 2 grams of fat, and zero carbs.
Benefits Of Chicken Gizzards For Cats
Here are some benefits your cat can get from eating chicken gizzard.
- It provides an excellent source of nutrients such as proteins and vitamins, including Vitamin B12, which is required for many enzyme processes.
- It contains beneficial minerals like zinc, phosphorus, selenium, magnesium and iron. Iron is necessary for the formation of haemoglobin (a part of red blood cells that transports oxygen), while magnesium is responsible for enzyme function and the metabolism of macronutrients.
- It is easier on a cat’s teeth due to its softer texture compared to other poultry meats.
- It is a natural source of Glucosamine, which can support your kitty’s joint health. Glucosamine acts as a mild anti-inflammatory, and the joints can use it to make cartilage components.
Potential Risks Of Feeding Cats Chicken Gizzards
The primary concern about feeding chicken gizzards to cats is that it could be toxic or harmful to their health. The truth is that chicken gizzard is not toxic to cats, but it does have some potential risks that pet owners should be aware of.
Not Ideal for Cats With Kidney Issues
Although organ meats are highly nutritious for healthy cats, they can be dangerous for those with kidney issues. Gizzards are high in phosphorus, so it is recommended that you speak with a vet before offering gizzards to your cat with renal problems.
High in Cholesterol
Chicken gizzards are higher in cholesterol than other parts of poultry, so it may not be a suitable treat for all cats. This high cholesterol can be a concern for cats with certain health issues, such as liver or kidney problems, or those with a history of heart disease.
Not Recommended in High Quantities
Chicken gizzards are a great, nutritious option for healthy cats, but they should only have it occasionally as it is not a nutritionally balanced meal. Cats need essential nutrients that gizzards alone cannot provide.
Raw chicken gizzards
Raw chicken gizzards can carry harmful bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, fever and other health issues in cats. Therefore, it is important to ensure chicken gizzards are properly cooked to kill these bacteria.
How To Cook/Prepare Chicken Gizzards For Cats
Cooking chicken gizzards for cats is a great way to provide them with an additional source of protein, and here’s how to do it:
- Wash the gizzards in cold water and remove any fat or gristle that may be present.
- Place the cleaned gizzards into a pot and cover them with enough water to completely submerge them.
- Bring the pot to boil over medium-high heat and reduce the heat. Simmer until cooked through (about 20 minutes).
- Once you are done cooking, drain all liquid from the pan before serving your cat their meal!
Important Things to Note
Here are some things you should keep in mind:
- Cook chicken gizzard thoroughly to kill harmful bacteria.
- Introduce it to your cat’s diet slowly. Start with small amounts and monitor for digestive issues.
- Avoid adding salt, spices, or seasonings to chicken gizzards while cooking, as these can be harmful to cats.
- Do not feed chicken gizzard to cats with certain health conditions, such as liver or kidney problems.
- Never use chicken gizzard as a substitute for high-quality commercial cat food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can cats eat chicken gizzards raw or cooked?
Yes, cats can safely eat chicken gizzards, whether raw or cooked, as they are a nutritious and natural food option. Raw gizzards provide essential nutrients like taurine, which supports a cat’s vision and heart health, but they must be fresh and handled with care to avoid contamination. Cooked gizzards should be prepared without seasonings or additives and served plain to prevent digestive issues.
Can cats eat chicken gizzards every day?
Cats can eat chicken gizzards regularly, but it’s best to offer them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While gizzards are rich in protein and taurine, they lack certain nutrients needed for a cat’s overall health if fed exclusively. Overfeeding gizzards daily might lead to an imbalance in their diet, so it’s important to pair them with other nutrient-rich foods.
How long does it take to boil chicken gizzards for cats?
To prepare chicken gizzards for cats, they should be boiled for about 15 to 20 minutes until fully cooked and tender. Ensure the gizzards are cleaned thoroughly before cooking to remove debris or impurities. Avoid adding salt, spices, or seasonings, as these can be harmful to cats. Once cooked, let the gizzards cool completely before serving them in small, bite-sized pieces.
Final Thoughts
Cats can safely eat chicken gizzard if it has been adequately cooked without the addition of seasonings or spices. Chicken gizzards are a healthy treat you can offer your cat occasionally and in moderation. They’re packed full of protein and nutrients that cats need to thrive. Keep in mind that chicken gizzards should never be used as a substitute for high-quality commercial cat food, which is specifically formulated to meet all of your cat’s nutritional needs. If your pet has health conditions, we recommend speaking with your vet before introducing chicken gizzards.
Stuck in any situation related to the diet of your cat? Feel free to ask us anytime, as we love helping you!