🐟
🐱

Proteins

Can Cats Eat Fish?

check_circleSafe occasionally
verified_userReviewed by Clawmate Vet TeamUpdated January 2026

Quick Answer

Cooked fish is safe occasionally but shouldn't be a daily food due to mercury concerns.

🐱Specifically for Cats

Cats love fish but it shouldn't be their primary protein. High fish diets can lead to vitamin E deficiency.

The Full Story

Fish provides excellent omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. However, some fish contain mercury and shouldn't be fed daily. Raw fish contains thiaminase which destroys B vitamins. Always cook fish thoroughly and remove all bones.

✓ Safety Tips

  • checkCook thoroughly, never raw
  • checkRemove ALL bones
  • checkLimit to 1-2x weekly
  • checkAvoid high-mercury fish (tuna, swordfish)

restaurantRecommended Serving for Cats

Small cooked portion once or twice weekly maximum

Nutritional Benefits

Omega-3 fatty acidsProteinVitamin D

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cats eat fish?
Safe occasionally. Cooked fish is safe occasionally but shouldn't be a daily food due to mercury concerns. Cats love fish but it shouldn't be their primary protein. High fish diets can lead to vitamin E deficiency.
Is fish safe for cats?
Fish provides excellent omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. However, some fish contain mercury and shouldn't be fed daily. Raw fish contains thiaminase which destroys B vitamins. Always cook fish thoroughly and remove all bones.
How much fish can I give my cat?
Small cooked portion once or twice weekly maximum
What are the health benefits of fish for cats?
Fish provides: Omega-3 fatty acids, Protein, Vitamin D. Fish provides excellent omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health. However, some fish contain mercury and shouldn't be fed daily. Raw fish contains thiaminase which destroys B vitamins. Always cook fish thoroughly and remove all bones.

Explore More Cats Foods