Can cats eat cooked fish?

Also called: fish, salmon, cooked salmon, white fish, cod, sardines, seafood, prawns

Safe

Plain, cooked and boneless, as an occasional treat. Not tuna as a regular food.

Yes, a little plain cooked fish is a treat cats often enjoy. Remove the bones and skip seasoning. Don't feed canned fish meant for people regularly.

How to offer it

  • Cook it thoroughly and serve it plain, with no seasoning and no bones.

Keep in mind

  • Keep treats to a small share of what your cat eats (up to 10% of daily calories).
  • Avoid canned fish products meant for people as a regular food.
  • Never raw: raw fish destroys thiamine, a vitamin cats need.

When to call a vet

  • If your cat has a medical condition or eats a special diet, check with your vet before giving treats.

Sources

  • Healthy, Safe Snacks to Help Your Pet Slim DownASPCA · Read 9 October 2026
    For cats, cooked fish and meats such as liver can be great, healthy treats your furry friend will go nuts for.
  • Using Food and Treats for Training CatsVCA Animal Hospitals · Read 9 October 2026
    strawberries, raspberries, seedless watermelon, cooked meats, and cooked seafood.
    Offer these foods without seasonings and ideally choose low-calorie foods.
  • How To Choose Safe Holiday Foods for PetsVCA Animal Hospitals · Read 9 October 2026
    Bones can fracture teeth and lead to obstructions in your pet’s gut.
  • Feeding Your CatCornell Feline Health Center · Read 9 October 2026
    Some cats that have consumed canned fish products meant for humans have developed potentially serious neurological disorders
  • Nutritional Requirements of Small AnimalsMerck Veterinary Manual · Read 9 October 2026
    Thiaminases are found in raw freshwater fish and clams.
  • Cat TreatsVCA Animal Hospitals · Read 9 October 2026
    treats should be limited to 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
    If your cat has a medical condition and/or is on a special food, it is important to check with your veterinary care team

Information from ASPCA, VCA Animal Hospitals, Cornell Feline Health Center and Merck Veterinary ManualSources checked 9 October 2026

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