Cats should not eat any raw fish that could be contaminated, whether this is with mercury, bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli, or anything else that poses a risk to a cat’s health. It is essential to also make sure it is prepared in a way that makes it safe for cats to eat.
Can Cats Eat Raw Fish?
Although lions, tigers, and bobcats—your cat’s wild cousins and ancestors—have been known to catch and consume fish right out of a shallow stream, this does not mean that your domestic cat can get away with doing the same.
In fact, raw fish can be incredibly dangerous for cats. As with any raw meat, there’s a chance that it could become contaminated with pathogens like E. Coli and salmonella. coli, which can result in food poisoning in both cats and humans
Moreover, thiaminase, an enzyme found in raw fish, degrades thiamine, a vital B vitamin. Eventually, thiamine deficiency can cause neurological disorders and other serious health problems.
It’s also crucial to remember that fish bones, whether cooked or raw, pose a choking hazard and may even harm your cat’s digestive system.
Can Cats Eat Tuna?
Keep your cat away from raw tuna, as with any other raw fish. It can be challenging to determine what kinds of toxins and heavy metals tuna may have ingested throughout its life because it is a species that feeds on other fish. If tuna is a mainstay in your cat’s diet, she could become poisoned with mercury.
That said, cats can have tuna as an occasional treat. Just be sure it’s cooked and that there isn’t an excessive amount of oil or salt added.
Can Cats Eat Anchovies?
Perhaps you enjoy anchovies, or perhaps you found some in your pantry and are trying to figure out how to get rid of them. Thankfully, compared to other fish, anchovies tend to contain less mercury and other toxins and are a great source of healthy fats.
Anchovies can cause weight gain in cats due to their high fat content and the fact that they are usually preserved in oil. Before giving anchovies to your cat, make sure to thoroughly rinse and drain them to get rid of any excess fat and salt.
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