Do Cats Really Like Fish – Things You Should Know!

It is a common stereotype that cats absolutely love to eat fish, but some people may be wondering if this is really true. Do cats really like fish?

Most cats like fish although they do have a preference for meat as carnivores. The strong smell of fish also attracts cats. Fish is rich in protein and fat which is good for cats, however, it should be given in small portions.

Here is everything that cat owners need to know about cats loving to eat fish. 

Do Cats Actually Prefer Fish

It is no secret that many cats really like to eat fish, but it is difficult to say if they actually prefer it. This is because cats like to eat many different protein sources, not just fish. Whichever type of protein that a cat prefers tends to vary from cat to cat in the same way that people tend to have different favorite foods. 

Is It A Myth That Cats Like Fish 

It is not a myth that cats like fish. Many cats love to eat fish. This and the nutrition benefits are some of the reasons why there are so many cat foods out there that contain fish. However, you should be careful about feeding your cat too much fish. This can lead to an unbalanced diet and sometimes even cause cats to stop eating other protein sources. 

Do Cats Get Addicted To Fish

Although this may seem a bit far-fetched, some cats have actually been known to become addicted to fish. However, this doesn’t mean that cats will necessarily go around looking for any fish that they can find. Rather, cats that are addicted to fish will likely refuse to eat other types of foods such as chicken.

This can lead to many problems that could occur due to an unbalanced diet. This could even lead to too much mercury being in the cat’s system if they primarily eat fish like tuna or salmon. 

Why Do Cats Like Fish So Much

Cats like fish because it has a lot of unique and essential nutrients in them, such as omega 3s and taurine. In addition to this, fish also tends to have a strong scent and flavor, which many cats love. Fish is also an excellent source of protein. 

What Fish Do Cats Like

Cats like many different kinds of fish. Of course, this includes fish like salmon and tuna, which are the types of fish that most cat food brands include in their recipes. However, other fish can make for a healthy and tasty snack for cats in moderation as well. Fish like cod, anchovies, halibut, and flounder can all be fed to cats when not stored in oil. 

It is recommended that you cook the fish by boiling or grilling it if you are planning on feeding fish to your cat. This is because raw fish could pose a health risk to your cat, and feeding your cat fried or breaded fish could make them ill. It is also recommended that you leave fish unseasoned as well. 

Do Cats Like Fish Skin 

Yes, cats do like fish skin, and they can eat it as long as it is cooked by being grilled or boiled. The fish skin should be left unseasoned and free of any oils commonly used for cooking with. It is also essential to ensure that the fish skin has not gone bad before feeding it to your cat. This is because feeding your cat fish skin that has spoiled will likely make them sick. 

Is It OK To Feed Cats Fish Everyday 

No, you should not feed your cat fish every day. Even though most cats really like to eat fish, eating fish as their only protein source will leave them with an unbalanced diet. In addition to this, feeding your cat fish every day could also potentially give them too much mercury for their body to handle. This is especially true if they eat a lot of tuna or salmon. Cats could become addicted to fish and reject other kinds of foods if they are fed them every day as well. 

To prevent all of this from happening in your cat, it is recommended that you only feed your cat fish in moderation. Think of it as a nice treat and not an everyday meal, and mix in other protein sources along with it. If you ever have questions or are concerned about feeding your cat a balanced diet, then contacting your vet is sure to help. They will be able to tell you how often you should be feeding your cat certain foods and even direct you to a good cat food. 

Things To Consider 

There are some additional things that cat owners may want to consider when cats like to eat fish. These include the importance of feeding your cats a balanced diet, what could happen if your cat has an unbalanced diet, and signs of a fish allergy in cats. Here are some other things to consider about cats eating fish. 

The Importance Of Feeding Cats A Balanced Diet 

It is crucial that you feed your cat as balanced of a diet as possible. Like people, cats thrive when they have a diet that gives them enough nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. In fact, cats with poor and unbalanced diets may be at risk for a variety of health problems as a result of deficiencies and gastrointestinal upset. 

What Could Happen If Your Cat Has An Unbalanced Diet

Like humans, cats can have many different health issues if they are fed an unbalanced diet. This is especially true if their diet is minimal or if your cat eats a high-calorie and fat diet. Here are some conditions that could potentially develop in your cat due to an unbalanced diet. 

• Excessive weight loss or gain 
• Malnutrition and vitamin or mineral deficiencies 
• Heart disease 
• Diabetes 
• Pancreatitis 
• Kidney disease 
• Digestion problems 
• Dental disease 
• Obesity 

If you suspect that your cat is experiencing health problems due to eating an unbalanced diet, it is recommended that you take them to the vet as soon as possible. 

Signs Of A Fish Allergy In Cats 

Although many cats love to eat fish, some cats can also be allergic to them. Even though it is unfortunate, you should take your cat to the vet and stop feeding them fish if they exhibit the following symptoms. 

• Hair loss and excessive itching 
• Lesions and crusty papules on the skin 
• Signs of acute moist dermatitis 
• Vomiting and diarrhea 

If you suspect that your cat has a fish allergy or intolerance, then you should take them to the vet as soon as you can. This is because they may have other allergies besides or in addition to fish. A vet will be able to test your cat for allergies and put you on the right path when it comes to treatment and your cat’s diet.