Can Cats Eat Anchovies?

Yes, cats can eat anchovies.

Commonly classified as oily fish, anchovies are small forage fish that can be found in marine, brackish, or freshwater. This fish is rich in omega-3 acids, protein, iron, zinc, and niacin, which can help support the various organs of your cat. Because of its size, anchovies contain less mercury and other metals from the ocean.

Cats can eat cooked anchovies as long as they are prepared plainly. Once cooked, the bones turn soft so there is no need to debone them. However, these cooked anchovies should not be flavoured with toxic ingredients such as butter, salt, onion, and garlic.

On the other hand, raw anchovies should not be given to your cat as they may have harmful microorganisms. Pathogens and parasites may cause food poisoning, triggering loose stools, vomiting, and other digestive issues. In addition, an enzyme found in raw fish destroys the thiamine that cats need to maintain optimal health.

How to feed anchovies to your cat: Before anything else, speak with your veterinarian to find out if your cat can eat anchovies as some cats are allergic to fish. Determine the right amount and frequency based on her age, size, weight, and daily activities.

When preparing anchovies for your cat, cook it plainly without any seasoning. Take caution when serving your cat canned anchovies soaked in oil. These should always be drained or rinsed to remove its flavour since the oil can cause stomach upset.

Salt-cured anchovies should not be given to your cat at all times. The high salt content may cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, incoordination, and excessive thirst or urination.

Here are three ideas for anchovy treats your cat will love:

Add flavour to your cat’s meat by mixing in plain anchovy broth.
Smear anchovy paste over your cat’s medicine to make it more appetizing for her.
Give a piece of anchovy as a reward after a grooming session.

In summary: Anchovies can be added to your cat’s diet as long as your cat isn’t allergic or intolerant to fish. Feeding her a few pieces of this fat-rich fish can help improve her skin, fur, and joints. Keep tabs on how much you give her to avoid vomiting, diarrhea, and weight gain from occurring.

Aside from anchovies, discover which seafoods you can safely feed your pet cat. You can also search for other human food categories found under “can cats eat.”