Is it okay to give canned fish as a treat?

Once in a while, when I'm cooking something that involves canned tuna or salmon, kitty wanders in and throws a fit until I share with her. I usually give her a little dish of whatever canned fish (always the kind that's bone free, by the way). I was just wondering if this is okay for them to eat? I imagine it is, it's just fish, but just thought I'd check! I'm trying to find ways to incorporate more natural foods into her diet.

A piece of meat would be a better choice because tuna has high mercury levels. Don't worry if you fed some before, they can process some, it's just healthier to feed meat or chicken instead.

smitten4kittens said:

A piece of meat would be a better choice because tuna has high mercury levels. Don't worry if you fed some before, they can process some, it's just healthier to feed meat or chicken instead.

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I agree.

Try to limit fish to the salmon and maybe just once a week a tiny bit. Though cats LOVE tuna, but it is not good for them on a regular basis. They can not eliminate the mercury quickly and it builds up in their system. But you could use the water (not oil) that is drained from the can and drizzle it over your kitty's food as a treat. I'd also dilute it a bit and limit it to OCCASIONALLY.
 

Oh wow I didn't know that! My grandma used to feed her cat large bowls of canned fish and she was fine, but my friend said she heard it was bad so I questioned it. Glad I asked. It's usually no more than a tablespoon, and not very often, maybe once every 2-3 weeks so I don't think it's harmful but I'll maybe try to interest her in some chicken instead.

I had a cat who developed urinary problems partly from not getting enough water.  A little diluted tuna water, however, was a big treat for her.  Try it.