There are many myths surrounding cat nutrition, such as the one that says that homemade or raw food is toxic for them, or that the only thing they can eat is quality food. Well, I prefer to be skeptical, and I will tell you why: in nature there is no one to prepare croquettes (I think), so carnivorous animals must hunt their prey if they want to survive.
Still, it's totally normal for people to wonder Why cats should not eat fish regularly.
All extremes are harmful to health
Both too much and too little fish can be harmful to the health of the animal, in this case the cat. If the cat were fed only raw fish, would end up having very low levels of vitamin B1, since fish contain thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys this vitamin. Vitamin B1 deficiency can lead to serious neurological problems such as seizures or severe crises that could be fatal.
In addition, many fish contain traces of mercury and bacteria, so it is recommended Cook them before offering them to your pet.Another safe option is to give your cat quality cans that contain fish, as they are prepared in a way that is not harmful.
Raw fish can be toxic
Raw fish not only contains thiaminase, but can also harbor bacteria and parasites that affect the cat's health. Some common symptoms after consuming contaminated raw fish are:
- Vomiting and Diarrhea.
- Fever.
- Development of the yellow fat disease (pansteatitis), an inflammation of fatty tissue.
If you want to pamper your cat, you can offer him fish occasionally, but Always cooked and never rawSome people even choose to give it to them on their birthday or some special occasion to make their furry friend happy.
Benefits of fish for cats
Fish, in moderate amounts, can be an excellent source of essential fatty acids such as Omega 3 and Omega 6, which promote the health of the cardiovascular system, skin and coat of the cat. In addition, it contains high quality protein which are necessary for their muscular development.
Some recommended fish for cats include:
- Salmon: Rich in fatty acids and vitamins A, B and D.
- Sardines: Source of Omega 3, ideal for maintaining strong joints and shiny hair.
- Trout and tuna: They provide important proteins and minerals.
However, be sure to Always remove the thorns before offering fish to your cat to avoid choking hazards.
Which fish to avoid and how to offer them?
As we mentioned, not all fish are created equal, nor are they all safe for cats. You should avoid:
- Canned fish with added salt, oils or sauces, as they contain high levels of sodium and harmful additives.
- Smoked, marinated or dehydrated fish, which are often too salty.
- Fish livers or viscera, due to their vitamin B1-destroying effect.
The best method of preparation is to steam or boil the fish, avoiding the use of seasonings and salt. If you prefer to offer raw fish, follow the BARF method with Pre-freezing for at least one week to eliminate parasites.
Why do they like fish so much?
Although cats are carnivorous animals that feed primarily on birds and rodents in the wild, it is not uncommon for them to feel a strong attraction to fish. This may be due to the strong odor that release natural oils from the fish, stimulating your senses.
It is not a common food in their natural diet either, but throughout history, Humans have introduced fish into their diet, especially in coastal areas. Nowadays, it is normal to see fish-based feed and wet food, designed to meet their nutritional needs.
Fish is not inherently toxic to cats if offered appropriately and occasionally. Cooking it properly or using products designed for them can make it a ideal nutritional supplementSo yes, you can make your cat happy with a little fish, but always under safety rules.
What kinds of fish are best for my cat and which ones are more toxic.
Hi Jenifer.
You can give him any type of fish, but never raw.
A greeting.