Can Cats Eat Tuna?

Only with caution

Please read the risks below before offering any.

Is tuna safe for cats?

Tuna is a saltwater fish, widely sold canned in water or oil, that is naturally high in mercury. Cats often love tuna, but regular feeding can cause mercury buildup, an imbalanced diet, and in raw fish, a thiamine deficiency, so it should stay an occasional treat, not a diet. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need tuna. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.

How to reduce the risks if you offer tuna

Choose tuna canned in water with no added salt, and drain it well
Offer a small amount, no more than once a week or so
Do not let tuna replace a balanced diet

What to avoid

Tuna packed in oil or brine
Raw tuna, which can carry parasites and destroys thiamine over time
Daily feeding, because of mercury buildup
Tuna-flavored human snacks with added seasoning

How much tuna can my cat have?

If you decide to offer tuna despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your cat has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.

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.

Emergency? Call your vet or an animal poison hotline straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US numbers, a consultation fee may apply).

Frequently asked questions

Can kittens eat tuna?

Because tuna needs extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid it for kittens.

What if my cat ate too much tuna?

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".

Should tuna be a regular part of my cat's diet?

No. We recommend not making tuna a regular part of your cat's diet.