The feeding of felines’ prepared meals to chelonians is an unconventional practice. These diets are formulated to meet the specific nutritional needs of a different species, one with significantly differing dietary requirements. The proteins, fats, and micronutrient compositions in these foods are designed for obligate carnivores, not the varied diets of many turtle species.
Offering such a diet can lead to various health problems for the reptile. Excessive protein intake can strain the kidneys, potentially leading to renal failure. The mineral balance is also likely to be inappropriate, potentially causing shell deformities or metabolic bone disease. Historically, limited understanding of chelonian nutritional needs may have led to experimentation with various food sources, but modern herpetological science strongly discourages this.