Can cats eat anchovies?
Quick answer: Yes, in moderation — cats can have anchovies in small amounts as an occasional treat.
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
One or two plain, unsalted anchovies now and then, not as a regular meal.
Why
A small plain anchovy is fine for most cats as an occasional treat.
Can cats eat anchovies, and why?
A small plain anchovy is fine for most cats as an occasional treat.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
How to feed anchovies to cats
- •How much: One or two plain, unsalted anchovies now and then, not as a regular meal.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
- •Young pets: Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Portable Pet Travel Water Bottle & Food Bowl
A fun kettlebell-shaped travel bottle that keeps your dog or cat hydrated on walks. The base unscrews into a feeding bowl for food or water on the go, with a wrist strap for easy carrying. Approx 18.5cm tall.
Ceramic Cat Water Fountain with Stainless Steel Spout
A quiet circulating water fountain with a ceramic basin and arched 304 stainless steel spout. The flowing stream stays fresh and tempting, encouraging cats to drink more throughout the day.
Paw-Shaped Silicone Cat Treat Spoon
A soft silicone feeding spoon with a cute paw-shaped scoop, made for serving lickable wet treats and purees straight from the pouch. Mess-free, easy to clean and ideal for hand-feeding and bonding.
Smart Sensor Cat Water Fountain 2.6L
A quiet 2.6L sensor fountain that keeps water moving and filtered to tempt your cat to drink more.
Feeding & nutrition guides
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat anchovies?
In moderation. A small plain anchovy is fine for most cats as an occasional treat.
How much anchovies can a cat have?
One or two plain, unsalted anchovies now and then, not as a regular meal.
Can cats eat anchovies every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
Can kittens eat anchovies?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check anchovies for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether cats can eat anchovies draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.