Can cats eat white fish?
Quick verdict
Safe
Recommended amount
A small amount occasionally; remove all bones and avoid salted or battered fish.
Why
Plain cooked boneless white fish is a well-tolerated treat for cats.
Can cats eat white fish, and why?
Plain cooked boneless white fish is a well-tolerated treat for cats.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
How to feed white fish to cats
- •How much: A small amount occasionally; remove all bones and avoid salted or battered fish.
- •How often: An everyday option in sensible amounts, but rotate with other foods for variety. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
- •Young pets: Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat white fish?
Safe. Plain cooked boneless white fish is a well-tolerated treat for cats.
How much white fish can a cat have?
A small amount occasionally; remove all bones and avoid salted or battered fish.
Can cats eat white fish every day?
In sensible amounts white fish can be a regular treat, but variety matters — any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
Can kittens eat white fish?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check white fish for another pet