Fish for Cats: The Definitive List

Cats love fish.

But: not all fish are the same.

5 safe choices. 3 to avoid.

The 5 Safe Choices

1. Salmon

Pros:

  • High in Omega-3.
  • Low in mercury.
  • Beloved flavor.

How: steamed, without seasoning.

Quantity: 30-50 g, 1-2 times/week.

2. Sardines

Pros:

  • Extremely low mercury (small fish).
  • Calcium (with soft bones).
  • Omega-3.

How: in natural water, without salt.

Quantity: 20-30 g, 1-2 times/week.

3. Mackerel

Pros:

  • High in Omega-3.
  • Small fish (low mercury).

How: boiled, without seasoning.

Quantity: 20-30 g, 1 time/week.

4. Cod

Pros:

  • Lean.
  • Mild.
  • Suitable for sensitive stomachs.

Quantity: 50-80 g, 1-2 times/week.

5. Trout

Pros:

  • Omega-3.
  • Low allergenicity.

Quantity: 40-60 g, 1-2 times/week.

The 3 to Avoid

1. Tuna (frequent)

Problems:

  • High mercury (predator).
  • Thiaminase if raw.

Only occasional (1 time/month max).

2. Swordfish

Extremely high mercury:

  • Never give.

3. Uncontrolled raw fish

Risks:

  • Thiaminase.
  • Parasites.

Never give raw.

Preparation

Always cooked:

  • Boiled or steamed.
  • Without salt, oil, spices.

Without dangerous bones:

  • Check thoroughly.

The Quantities

Snacks/supplementation:

  • 10-15% of daily calories.
  • 1-2 times/week.

Never the main meal:

  • A balanced diet is necessary.

The Truth

Fish for cats:

✅ 5 safe: salmon, sardines, mackerel, cod, trout.

❌ 3 to avoid: frequent tuna, swordfish, uncontrolled raw.

Strategy:

  • Variation.
  • Cooked, without seasoning.
  • Moderate quantities.

Benefit:

  • Omega-3.
  • Palatability.
  • Health.

Fish yes, but with criteria.