Q: OK to Feed Cats Tuna as a Treat?

My cat is about 6 months old now and he loves fish. Is it OK to feed him canned tuna as a treat? I know the mercury levels in some fish can be a problem for people. What about cats?

Q: My cat is about 6 months old now and he loves fish. Is it OK to feed him canned tuna as a treat? I know the mercury levels in some fish can be a problem for people. What about cats?

A: Canned tuna, if fed as the sole diet, could lead to vitamin deficiencies but this isn't the case with your kitty. Even though a very small amount of canned tuna every now and then should not harm your cat I would prefer to avoid it as a treat.  In general, feeding human foods can be a tough habit to break. Since your cat seems to love fish so much, try to find fish flavored cat foods or treats.  This way you can be assured that his treats are specifically formulated for cats!

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Dr. Lauren Brickman Dr. Brickman started as a veterinary technician at Garden City Park in 1997 and went on to…

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