URGENT! Can I eat a turkey that has been on medicated grower?

[zowieyellowflame]

Hello,
I have a turkey with bad legs, I think I will be putting him down today unless my splint works. He is a bbw, likely around 8-9 lb. He has been eating medicated grower pellets. (medicated for prevention of black head)
Is it safe to eat the meat or should I bury him?
Thanks

 

[jimmythechicken]

i would not eat a bird on med feed.they say not to even eat eggs from hens on meds.i would want them off med feed for 2 weeks or so

 

[homesteadapps]

What does the label on the feed state as the withdraw period?

 

[sourland]

Depends upon what the medication is and what the clearing or withdrawal recommendation is for that medication.

 

[wyoDreamer]

Looking up online for turkey feed with medication for blackhead, the feed I found with the medication says the withdrawl period is 5 days before slaughter.
So, no, I wouldn't eat it.
Also, it is specifically labeled to not be fed to horses or dogs, so don't feed the dead bird to the dogs either or they may have a negative reaction.

EDITED TO ADD: But that is only the stuff I found, what you are using may be different. If you can, check the bag. Otherwise err on the side of caution.

 

[bullyforme]

Maybe you could give the splints some time to work, it says only 5 days is needed to clean out the medication, in the meantime feed him something non-medicated.

 

[zowieyellowflame]

I never thought to look at the bag.

I just looked, it says to withdraw for 5 days.

I just tried to pick the turkey up and get a better look. The knees are not broken, they just have a strong tendancy to turn inward. They can remain straight and if so, the turkey is able to support his own weight. I am going to try placing a wooden dowel on the inner side of the knee and wrapping with a tensor bandage. If this allows him to get around better, I will give him the 5 days. I think too, I should give him a smaller enclosure, by himself. I will get him off medicated feed right away. Can turkeys eat cracked corn? For a day until I get to the feedstore?

 

[homesteadapps]

Corn will be fine.