Can cats eat fish?

Updated 12/05/2023

Fish is filled with fatty acids that are seriously healthy for us humans. With countless benefits to our heart, skin and brain functioning, chowing down on fatty fish is a recommended part of a balanced diet for non-vegans. But is it the same for our feline friends? Can cats eat fish? Let’s find out…

Can cats eat fish?

Like with cats and milk, the feline world’s obsession with catching (and eating) fish has long been portrayed in the media. But can cats eat fish? The simple answer is yes, fish is safe for cats, but only in small quantities. This is because fish contains high levels of fatty acids which can cause cats to have a vitamin E deficiency. 

Why? Well it’s in the name - oily fish like salmon, tuna and sardines are full of fat, so be wary about how much of the stuff you’re serving up to your kitty. Think about fish as a treat every now and then or on special occasions, alongside a complete diet of commercially-available cat food.

Can cats eat cooked fish?

So, now we know that fish is safe for cats, what form should it take in your kitty’s bowl? Is fish safe for cats if it’s cooked? Certainly! Cooking the fish first is exactly how you should go about feeding your kitty fish. Keep it simple by steaming or grilling, and steer clear of any seasonings or extra oils. There are many foods us humans enjoy that our kitty pals simply can’t tolerate! So, while you might think you’re adding extra flavor to a delicious, cat-friendly snack, leave it out to be sure it’s safe for your feline friend.

Can cats eat raw fish?

It’s best to steer clear of feeding your cat raw fish. Cooking the fish kills off any bacteria present that’s likely to cause food poisoning, so always make sure the fish you’re letting your kitty snack on is fully cooked all the way through. Raw fish contains an enzyme called thiaminase, which destroys thiamine which is an essential B vitamin. Too little thiamine can lead to serious health issues with your cat, including neurological issues, convulsions and coma.

Can cats eat fish bones?

Before serving up your cat’s favorite fatty snack, remove all the fish bones. There’s a chance they could get stuck in your poor kitty’s throat or intestinal tract and cause a blockage or serious damage. 

Health benefits of cats eating fish

While feeding fish to your cat shouldn’t make up a substantial part of their diet, oily fish has some great health benefits due to its high levels of omega 3 and 6. These contribute to…

• Healthy brain functioning
• Adequate energy levels 
• Fat-soluble vitamin absorption 
• Good eyesight
• Healthy heart functioning
• Maintenance of healthy joints
• Healthy skin 
• Good immunity 

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.

Other foods that are safe for cats include:

• Bananas
• Oatmeal
• Baked bread
• Cooked eggs
• Cooked meat
• Corn
• Brown rice 
• Broccoli
• Apples and pears (if deseeded)