Can dogs eat turkey skin?

Better not

Turkey skin, drippings and gravy can cause severe, sometimes fatal pancreatitis in dogs. In milder cases it causes vomiting and diarrhea (Pet Poison Helpline).

Good to know: A small piece of boneless turkey is a fine treat (ASPCA); skip the skin and fat. Cooked bones and stuffing with onions never belong in the bowl.

Better choices, for example

Bananas: Yes, in small amounts
Watermelon: Yes, in small amounts
Apples: Yes, in small amounts
Strawberries: Yes, in small amounts

Questions

Can cats eat turkey skin?

Better not. Cornell says fat from meat can predispose cats to pancreatitis. A very small piece of lean turkey is fine.

Sources

Pet Poison Helpline – Fall Toxins
Pet Poison Helpline – Thanksgiving Pet Safety Tips
ASPCA – Holiday Safety Tips

Last checked: October 2026

Chicken: Only a little
Pork: Only a little
Raw wild boar: Life-threatening
Salmon: Only a little
Tuna: Only a little
Acorns: Toxic
Alcohol: Toxic
Almonds: Better not

What can dogs eat?