Fish in cat’s diet

I answered your fish related questions! Why do cats love fish? Are fish needed in the cat’s diet? Are all fish healthy? Can cats eat raw fish? Is it OK to feed cats tuna? Which fish should you avoid and why?

Advantages of fish in your cat’ diet

Fish are an excellent source of wholesome animal protein, fat, micro and macro elements as well as unsaturated fatty acids from the Omega-3 and Omega-6 groups: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

The content of Omega fatty acids depends on the species of fish and the place and season of its fishing

Unsaturated fatty acids have a positive effect on immunity, skin, fur, cardiovascular systems and the brain of cats.

Are fishes dangerous for your cat?

Unfortunately, not all fish are healthy for the cat because they contain poisonous substances. Some fish can be served raw to the cat, and others only after heat treatment.

Fish intended for humans

Your cat shouldn’t eat smoked and canned fish intended for humans, because they contain very large amounts of salt.

Fish containing toxic substances

Thiaminase, found in the raw meat of some species of fish, is an anti-vitamin that destroys vitamin B1 (thiamine). Thiamine deficiency leads to nervous system disorders, apathy, circulatory failure and gastrointestinal disorders. Thiaminase is sensitive to high temperatures, so after thermal treatment it does not pose a threat to the health of cats.

The second very dangerous substance is trimethylamine oxide (triox), which blocks the absorption of iron and leads to anemia.

Which fish can a cat eat raw?

Raw, the cat can eat fish that does not contain harmful substances, i.e.

  • Cod
  • Flounder
  • Halibut
  • Perch
  • Trout
  • Sole
  • Pike
  • Eel
  • Salmon

Caution!

Fish can be carriers of many parasites. A large proportion of them are found in the gastrointestinal tract, but some (e.g. in cod) may be found in the muscles . I recommend giving the cat only eviscerated fish to reduce the risk factor for parasite infection.

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What do You think?

I would love to see your thought, suggestions and questions in the comments below!

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Joanna z Apollo Fluffy Cat

I am Joanna and together with my cat Apollo, I create the Apollo Fluffy Cat blog, where I share my experiences and knowledge about cats and ecology so that you can learn how to become a better and more mindful cat parent! You can found more about me, Apollo and our blog's mission on the "About Us" page.

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