Can cats eat tinned fish?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A small spoonful occasionally; drain well and avoid brine or oil.
Why
Tinned fish in spring water is a safe occasional treat for cats.
Can cats eat tinned fish, and why?
Tinned fish in spring water is a safe occasional treat for cats. Salty brine and oily versions are unhealthy; do not feed as a regular meal.
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 tinned fish to cats
- •How much: A small spoonful occasionally; drain well and avoid brine or oil.
- •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:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat tinned fish?
In moderation. Tinned fish in spring water is a safe occasional treat for cats.
How much tinned fish can a cat have?
A small spoonful occasionally; drain well and avoid brine or oil.
Can cats eat tinned fish 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 tinned fish?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check tinned fish for another pet