Why only in moderation for cats
Salmon is not toxic to cats. It is rich in protein and useful fatty acids, so a small piece of cooked salmon makes a good treat.
Salmon is an oily fish, though: a larger piece can cause vomiting or diarrhoea, and a cat fed mainly on fish gets an unbalanced diet. Smoked and salted salmon is too salty for a cat, and raw salmon can carry bacteria and parasites. Salmon bones are small and sharp, so take them out with care.
How to give it
- Boil the salmon or bake it in the oven, with no salt, oil or seasoning.
- Take out every bone with care.
- Give a small piece only now and then, as a treat.
What to watch out for
- Oily fish can cause vomiting or diarrhoea, especially if the cat eats a larger piece.
- Smoked, salted or pickled salmon carries too much salt.
- Raw salmon can carry bacteria and parasites.
- Small bones can get stuck in the mouth or throat.
- Fed mainly on fish, a cat gets an unbalanced diet.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Smoked or salted salmon
Not safeToo salty, so it is better not to give it to a cat.
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Raw salmon
Not safeIt can carry bacteria and parasites, so cook the salmon first.
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Bones
Not safeSmall, sharp bones can get stuck in the throat or injure the gut.
What to give instead
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning is one of the best treats you can give a cat. Safe
- Eggs Yes, a well-cooked egg, boiled or cooked without fat, is fine for a cat, but it is better not to give a raw egg. Safe
- Fish Yes, in moderation: plain cooked fish with the bones removed makes a good treat, but it should not replace a complete cat food. In moderation
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