Can cats eat raw fish?
No, raw fish is not a good idea for cats. It may carry harmful bacteria and parasites, and some raw fish contains thiaminase, an enzyme that destroys vitamin B1. Fish for cats should be properly cooked, with bones removed.
Updated:
Why
Cats Protection says uncooked fish may contain harmful bacteria and parasites. The Merck Veterinary Manual notes that thiaminases are found in raw freshwater fish and are destroyed by cooking. Thiamine (vitamin B1) is an essential nutrient, so cooking fish removes this risk.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea, sometimes with blood
- Fever
- Not wanting to eat
- Lethargy
What to do
If your cat ate a little raw fish, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, fever or not eating, and call your vet if any appear. Raw fish should not become a regular food.
How to give it
If you share fish: properly cooked, plain, with all bones removed, a few pieces at a time.
Questions and answers
What is thiaminase?
It is an enzyme found in some raw fish that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1). Cooking destroys it.
Related foods
All foods: What can cats eat?Sources
- Cats and human foods — Cats Protection
- Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual (S. L. Sanderson; reviewed 2023-11, updated 2024-09)
- Thiamine Deficiency and Excess Vitamin A in Cats — PetMD (K. Tudor DVM, 2012-12-13)
- Proper Nutrition for Cats — Merck Veterinary Manual, Cat Owners (N. Roman; 2025-07)
- Avoiding Raw Food in Cats — VCA Animal Hospitals / CAVN (updated 2025-03-07)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic cat: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.