Why only in moderation for cats
Tuna is not toxic to cats, and they love its smell and taste. It is a protein-rich fish, so a small piece of cooked tuna, or tuna canned in spring water, works well as a treat.
The trouble starts when a cat gets too much of it. Tuna canned for people is not a complete cat food: it lacks some nutrients a cat must have, and a cat fed mainly on tuna for a long time can run short of vitamin E and develop inflamed body fat. Tuna also builds up mercury, and some cats get so used to it that they refuse their normal food.
How to give it
- Choose plain cooked tuna or tuna canned in spring water, with no oil or salt.
- Give a small piece as a treat, not instead of a meal.
- Do not give tuna every day.
- Do not give raw tuna.
What to watch out for
- Fed mainly on tuna, a cat gets an unbalanced diet and can run short of vitamin E and other nutrients it needs.
- Tuna builds up mercury, so it should not be in a cat's bowl every day.
- Tuna in oil or brine carries too much fat or salt and can cause diarrhoea.
- Some cats get so used to the taste of tuna that they refuse their normal food.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Tuna in spring water
In moderationFine as a small treat now and then.
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Tuna in oil or brine
Not safeToo fatty or too salty, so it is better not to give it to a cat.
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Raw tuna
Not safeRaw fish can carry bacteria and parasites, so do not give a cat raw tuna.
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
- Beef Yes, well-cooked lean beef without seasoning is a good treat for a cat; just trim off the fat and take out any bones. Safe
Looking for a treat?
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