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Can Cats Eat Salmon?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is salmon safe for cats?
Salmon is an oily fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, but raw or undercooked salmon from the Pacific Northwest can carry a parasite. Fully cooked, plain salmon is a healthy occasional treat for cats, but raw or undercooked salmon carries parasite and bacterial risks. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need salmon. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve salmon to your cat
- Cook it thoroughly with no oil, butter, salt or seasoning
- Remove all bones before serving
- Offer a small piece as an occasional treat, not a daily food
What to avoid
- Raw or undercooked salmon, especially wild-caught Pacific salmon, due to a parasite risk
- Smoked or salted salmon
- Salmon skin cooked with heavy seasoning
How much salmon can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including salmon, should stay under about 10% of your cat's daily calories.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat salmon?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding salmon. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too much salmon?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my cat have salmon?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult cat, and less for small ones.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Salmon?