Can Cats Eat Tuna?
Opening a can of tuna is the fastest way to make a cat come running. But can cats eat tuna? The answer is yes—they can. But even though cats love it and would likely prefer it over their regular food, it’s not always the best choice for their long-term health.
A small amount of unsalted, unseasoned tuna now and then likely won’t cause issues—but you shouldn’t make it a regular part of your cat’s diet. We consulted two veterinarians to break down the benefits, risks, and safe ways to offer tuna as an occasional treat.
Should Cats Eat Tuna Fish?
Cats can eat tuna—but that doesn’t mean they should eat it regularly. While there are some real benefits, there are also important health risks to consider.
In short: a little tuna here and there is fine—and will delight your cat—but moderation is key.
Benefits of Tuna for Cats
Tuna offers several nutritional perks when served sparingly:
- High in protein: As obligate carnivores, cats thrive on animal-based protein. Tuna delivers quality protein that supports muscle maintenance and overall vitality.
- Low in carbohydrates: Cats lack glucokinase, an enzyme needed to efficiently process carbs. Too many carbs can contribute to insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, and obesity—so low-carb options like tuna are a better fit.
- Rich in essential fatty acids: Tuna contains omega-3s—including EPA and DHA—which help maintain healthy skin and coat, and may support heart and kidney health by reducing inflammation.
- Naturally motivating: Many cats find tuna irresistible—making it a helpful tool for administering medication or encouraging picky eaters.
Risks of Tuna for Cats
Despite its appeal, tuna carries notable health concerns:
- Mercy exposure: Tuna—especially larger varieties—accumulates mercury. Over time, excess mercury can damage your cat’s nervous system, and neurological effects may be irreversible.
- Nutritional imbalance: Tuna lacks vital vitamins and minerals (like taurine, vitamin E, and calcium) required for a complete feline diet. Relying on tuna instead of balanced cat food can lead to serious deficiencies.
- Pansteatitis (yellow fat disease): The imbalance between polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E in tuna can trigger painful inflammation of fat tissue—causing lethargy, fever, reluctance to move, and chronic discomfort.
- Vitamin K deficiency: Replacing too much regular cat food with tuna increases the risk of vitamin K deficiency, which impairs blood clotting and may lead to abnormal bleeding.
How to Safely Serve Tuna to Cats
Safety comes down to two things: what kind of tuna you choose—and how much you give.
Best Tuna for Cats to Eat
Both fresh and canned tuna can be safe—if prepared correctly:
- Fresh tuna: Must be fully cooked (never raw), as raw fish carries bacterial risks and contains thiaminase—an enzyme that breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1). Thiamine deficiency can cause neurological issues and heart problems. Cooking neutralizes most thiaminase. Always serve it plain—no salt, spices, or seasonings.
- Canned tuna: Choose varieties packed in water—not oil—and avoid added flavorings, salt, or preservatives. Skipjack or “light” tuna has significantly lower mercury levels than albacore or yellowfin, making it the safer choice.
How Much Tuna Can Cats Eat?
According to veterinary guidance, tuna should never exceed 10% of your cat’s total daily caloric intake. Here’s a practical reference based on weight:
| Cat Weight | Daily Calorie Needs | Maximum Tuna (ounces) |
|---|---|---|
| 5 lbs | 157 kcal/day | 0.4 oz |
| 7.5 lbs | 210 kcal/day | 0.6 oz |
| 10 lbs | 260 kcal/day | 0.7 oz |
| 12.5 lbs | 298 kcal/day | 0.8 oz |
| 15 lbs | 354 kcal/day | 1.0 oz |
| 17.5 lbs | 396 kcal/day | 1.1 oz |
| 20 lbs | 440 kcal/day | 1.2 oz |
How to Serve Tuna to Cats
You can offer tuna straight from the bowl—or mix a small amount into wet food to boost palatability. A few drops of tuna juice can also entice picky eaters to try dry kibble.
But be cautious: if your cat starts expecting tuna-flavored meals every day, they may refuse their regular food entirely. Dr. Sinn warns this can lead to nutritional gaps and unhealthy eating habits.
For a safer, more balanced alternative, look for premium cat foods and treats formulated with tuna as part of a complete diet. Trusted options include:
- FurPetVo Landmark Broths Tuna, Shrimp & Whitefish Recipe Wet Cat Food Complement Pouches
- FurPetVo Churu Tuna & Chicken Puree Variety Pack Grain-Free Lickable Cat Treat
- FurPetVo Purely Natural Hand-Flaked Tuna Soft Cat Treat
- FurPetVo Delectables Bisque Tuna & Salmon Pack Lickable Cat Treats
What To Do if Your Cat Eats Too Much Tuna
If your cat accidentally consumes a large amount of tuna, monitor them closely. One-time overindulgence may only cause mild digestive upset—but repeated or excessive intake raises the risk of mercury poisoning or thiamine deficiency.
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if you notice any of these signs:
- Lack of coordination or wobbly gait
- Rapid eye movements (nystagmus)
- Tremors or seizures
- Unusual behavior, head tilt, or dilated pupils
These symptoms may indicate neurological distress—whether from mercury, thiamine deficiency, or another underlying issue. When in doubt, consult your vet promptly.
FAQs About Tuna and Cats
Here’s what our veterinary experts say about common questions:
- Should cats eat canned tuna? Yes—as an occasional treat only. Choose water-packed, low-mercury options like skipjack or light tuna, and never let it replace nutritionally complete cat food.
- Is canned tuna healthy for cats? It has benefits, but not enough to outweigh the risks of regular use. For optimal health, rely on scientifically formulated cat food from furpetvo.com, and use tuna only as an infrequent enhancement.
- Can I give my cat StarKist tuna? While technically possible, FurPetVo recommends choosing tuna products specifically designed for cats—or preparing plain, human-grade tuna at home using strict safety guidelines. Always prioritize veterinary-approved nutrition first.
