You’re cooking salmon, and your cat starts circling your feet — eyes wide, tail twitching. Should you give them a bite of raw fish? Many cat owners wonder: Can cats eat raw fish? The short answer is no, at least not without serious risks.
While cats may instinctively be drawn to the smell of fish, feeding them raw varieties can pose health threats. In this guide, we’ll break down the facts, risks, and safe alternatives — all grounded in expert advice and real pet experiences.
Do Cats Naturally Eat Raw Fish?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require meat to thrive. However, raw fish isn’t a natural part of a domestic cat’s diet. In the wild, cats eat rodents, birds, insects — not sushi-grade tuna.
Many pet parents assume fish is “normal” food for cats because of how it’s marketed, but most commercial cat food that contains fish is cooked and supplemented to prevent nutrient loss.
Risks of Feeding Raw Fish to Cats
Despite their carnivorous nature, cats can’t safely process all forms of raw meat. Raw fish comes with multiple hazards, especially when fed regularly.
1. Parasites
Raw fish can carry parasites like tapeworms and flukes. According to PetMD, these can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and long-term digestive issues in cats.
“I gave my cat raw salmon once. Two weeks later, we were at the vet with a parasite issue. Never again!”
— Jenna, Fluffze reader
2. Thiamine Deficiency
Raw fish contains an enzyme called thiaminase, which destroys thiamine (Vitamin B1). A thiamine deficiency can cause:
- Neurological issues
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness
- Seizures
Cats need thiamine for a healthy nervous system. Cooking the fish neutralizes the enzyme — but raw fish leaves it active.
3. Bacterial Contamination
Like raw chicken, raw fish can contain:
- Salmonella
- Listeria
- E. coli
While cats are generally more resistant to foodborne bacteria than humans, they’re not immune — especially kittens or immunocompromised cats.
4. Mercury and Heavy Metals
Some fish, like tuna or swordfish, may contain elevated levels of mercury or heavy metals, which accumulate over time and can harm your cat’s kidneys and liver.
Are There Any Benefits to Raw Fish for Cats?
While fish offers omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and flavor, these benefits are outweighed by the risks when served raw. If you want to give your cat fish, cook it thoroughly and remove bones.
Safer options include:
- Steamed or baked salmon
- Lightly cooked cod or tilapia
- Vet-approved fish-based treats
Safe Alternatives to Raw Fish
Instead of raw fish, try these alternatives that satisfy your cat’s cravings without the dangers:
| Safe Option | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Canned salmon (in water, no salt) | Protein + Omega-3 |
| Cooked white fish | Easy to digest |
| Fish-based commercial treats | Vet-formulated and balanced |
| Fish oil supplements | Great for skin and joints |
Check with your vet before making fish a staple in your cat’s diet. Even cooked fish shouldn’t replace a balanced cat food.
Homemade Fish Cat Treats Recipe
Want to make something at home that’s tasty and cat-safe? Try this simple, vet-friendly cooked fish treat your feline will love.
Ingredients:
-
1 small cooked salmon fillet (boneless, skinless)
-
1 egg
-
1 tbsp oat flour
Instructions:
-
Mash the salmon and mix it with the egg and oat flour.
-
Roll into small bite-sized balls.
-
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until lightly browned.
-
Let them cool completely and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Important: These treats are for supplemental feeding only. Always introduce new treats slowly, and consult your vet if your cat has allergies or a sensitive stomach.
Can Cats Eat Sushi or Sashimi?
No, cats should not eat sushi or sashimi. While sushi-grade fish is cleaner than store-bought raw fillets, it still carries risk. Plus, sushi often includes:
- Seasonings (like soy sauce)
- Vinegar rice (high in sugar)
- Raw garnishes (like wasabi)
Even plain sashimi can contain parasites or thiaminase, which are dangerous for cats.
What Veterinarians Recommend
Veterinarians and pet nutritionists strongly advise against feeding raw fish. Here’s why:
“Raw fish is not a safe treat for cats. The risks — parasites, bacteria, vitamin deficiencies — far outweigh the rewards. If you want to feed fish, cook it and keep portions small.”
— Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM (source)
Some raw feeders promote fish as part of homemade diets, but even those require precise supplementation to avoid nutrient gaps. Most cat owners don’t have the tools to balance raw meals properly.
Real-Life Experiences from Pet Owners
“I thought I was treating my cat by giving her raw tuna once a week. But after she got diarrhea twice, my vet helped me understand why raw fish isn’t worth it.”
— Mike, Fluffze subscriber
“My cat once stole a piece of raw salmon off the counter — and got sick two days later. Now I stick to vet-recommended fish treats from trusted brands.”
— Lila, Fluffze contributor
We hear similar stories often at Fluffze.com. Good intentions can backfire without proper research.
FAQ: Cats and Raw Fish
Q1: Is it ever okay to give a cat raw fish?
It’s not recommended. Even high-quality raw fish can cause thiamine deficiency or parasite infection.
Q2: What if my cat already ate raw fish?
Watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or weakness. If symptoms show, call your vet immediately. One small bite isn’t usually deadly, but it can be risky.
Q3: Are canned fish products okay?
Canned fish in water (no salt, no seasoning) can be safe in moderation, but it’s not a replacement for balanced cat food.
Q4: What kind of fish is safest for cats?
Cooked, boneless salmon, cod, or tilapia. Avoid raw, heavily seasoned, or oily fish like tuna or mackerel.
Q5: What’s a good treat if my cat loves fish?
Try freeze-dried salmon or cooked fish bits. You can also look for fish-flavored commercial cat treats.
Final Thoughts
So, can cats eat raw fish?
Technically, yes — but should they? Definitely not. From parasites to thiamine loss and bacterial infections, raw fish introduces serious risks to your cat’s health.
If your cat adores seafood, opt for safe, cooked alternatives and limit it to occasional treats. A healthy cat diet should always be balanced, complete, and vet-approved.
At Fluffze.com, we’re all about giving your pets the best — and that starts with knowledge.
Call-to-Action
Found this helpful?
Share it with fellow cat parents, or check out our other feline health tips and nutrition guides at Fluffze.com.
Written by
Written by Shawn, pet lover & contributor at Fluffze
Shawn is a lifelong cat owner and raw diet researcher. His writing helps pet parents make informed, safe decisions around pet nutrition.
Related Articles:
Can Cats Eat Blueberries? A Safe & Tasty Guide for Cat Parents
Dangerous Foods Cats Should Not Eat
The Best Homemade Cat Food for Sensitive Stomach
