Can Cats Eat Salmon? Raw vs Cooked & Mercury Concerns
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by a licensed veterinary professional.
Cats love salmon, but is it healthy? Learn about raw vs cooked salmon safety, mercury concerns, and how to include this omega-rich fish in your cat's diet without the risks.
Quick Answer: Yes, But With Important Caveats
Cats can eat salmon, and most cats absolutely love it! However, there are important guidelines to follow. Salmon should be cooked, plain, boneless, and served in moderation due to mercury concerns.
Never feed raw salmon to cats—it can contain parasites and bacteria that cause serious illness.
✅ Safe When Prepared Correctly
Cooked, plain salmon is a healthy occasional treat that provides omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential nutrients cats need. The ASPCA confirms cooked fish is safe for cats.
Why Salmon Is Great for Cats
Salmon is packed with nutrients that benefit feline health:
| Nutrient | Benefit for Cats |
|---|---|
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA & DHA) | Reduces inflammation, supports brain, heart, kidney health; promotes shiny coat |
| High-Quality Protein | Essential for obligate carnivores; builds muscle |
| Vitamin B12 | Nervous system function, energy metabolism |
| Vitamin D | Bone health, calcium absorption |
| Selenium | Antioxidant, thyroid function |
| Potassium | Heart and muscle function |
Raw vs Cooked Salmon: Critical Difference
⚠️ Never Feed Raw Salmon!
Raw salmon can contain Neorickettsia helminthoeca, which causes "salmon poisoning disease." While more common in dogs, it can affect cats too. Raw salmon also carries parasites and bacteria like Salmonella.
❌ Raw Salmon
- Risk of salmon poisoning disease
- May contain parasites (tapeworms)
- Bacterial contamination (Salmonella, Listeria)
- Contains thiaminase (destroys vitamin B1)
✅ Cooked Salmon
- Kills parasites and bacteria
- Destroys thiaminase enzyme
- Safer for digestion
- Retains most nutritional benefits
Mercury & Thiaminase Concerns
Mercury in Salmon
Salmon is actually one of the lower-mercury fish options, making it safer than tuna for regular feeding. However, moderation is still important:
- Wild salmon typically has less mercury than farmed
- Smaller salmon have accumulated less mercury
- Variety is key—don't feed salmon exclusively
Thiaminase in Raw Fish
Raw salmon contains an enzyme called thiaminase that destroys vitamin B1 (thiamine). Thiamine deficiency in cats causes:
- Neurological problems
- Loss of appetite
- Seizures (in severe cases)
- Can be fatal if untreated
Good news: Cooking destroys thiaminase, making cooked salmon safe!
How to Serve Salmon to Your Cat
Safe Preparation Methods
- Bake: 400°F for 12-15 minutes until flaky (internal temp 145°F)
- Poach: Simmer in plain water for 10-12 minutes
- Steam: Steam for 10-15 minutes
- Grill: No oil or seasonings, until fully cooked
⚠️ Important Rules
- • No seasonings - Salt, garlic, onion are all harmful
- • Remove all bones - Even small bones can cause choking or injury
- • No skin with seasoning - Plain skin in small amounts is okay
- • Skip smoked salmon - Too much salt, may contain nitrates
How Much Salmon Can Cats Eat?
Follow the 10% treat rule: salmon and other treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories.
| Cat Size | Salmon Portion | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Small (6-8 lbs) | 1 tablespoon | 1-2x per week |
| Average (9-12 lbs) | 1-2 tablespoons | 1-2x per week |
| Large (13+ lbs) | 2-3 tablespoons | 1-2x per week |
* Use our Nutrition Calculator for personalized feeding recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats eat canned salmon?
Choose canned salmon packed in water with no salt added. Avoid salmon in oil or with seasonings. Drain and rinse to reduce sodium.
Is salmon better than tuna for cats?
Yes! Salmon has lower mercury levels and more omega-3s than tuna. See our tuna guide for comparison.
Can kittens eat salmon?
Kittens over 8 weeks can have tiny amounts of cooked salmon. Focus on complete kitten food for proper nutrition during growth.
My cat is obsessed with salmon—is that okay?
Many cats become "addicted" to fish. While salmon is healthy, it shouldn't be the only protein. Rotate with chicken and commercial cat food for balanced nutrition.
Can cats eat salmon skin?
Plain, cooked salmon skin in small amounts is okay and contains extra omega-3s. Remove if seasoned or cooked with oil.
The Bottom Line
- ✅ Cooked salmon is healthy for cats - excellent omega-3 source
- ❌ Never feed raw salmon - parasites and salmon poisoning risk
- ✅ Lower mercury than tuna - safer for regular feeding
- ✅ Plain and boneless only - no seasonings, remove all bones
- ✅ Moderation is key - 1-2 times per week maximum
- ✅ Not a complete diet - supplement, don't replace cat food
Salmon can be a wonderful addition to your cat's diet—just prepare it safely and serve in moderation!
Quick Safety Check: Salmon
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