Can cats eat raw fish?

Q: Can cats eat raw fish?

Some fish contain an enzyme that destroys vitamin B1, plus parasites and bacteria — cooking solves both. Some fish (carp, herring, smelt, anchovy and others) contain thiaminase, which destroys vitamin B1. Frequent raw fish can cause thiamine deficiency — head drooping, wobbliness, even seizures — plus parasites and Salmonella. Cooking removes both.

Cook it (see cooked white fish and salmon).

Why

Some fish (carp, herring, smelt, anchovy and others) contain thiaminase, which destroys vitamin B1. Frequent raw fish can cause thiamine deficiency — head drooping, wobbliness, even seizures — plus parasites and Salmonella. Cooking removes both.

If your cat has a condition

Kidney disease Avoid No specific data — follow the overall verdict.
Diabetes Avoid No specific data — follow the overall verdict.
Heart disease (HCM) Avoid No specific data — follow the overall verdict.
Urinary stones Avoid No specific stone concern known — water intake matters more.

SourcesReviewed 2026-10-24

Markovich JE et al. Thiamine deficiency in dogs and cats. JAVMA 2013;243:649-656
ASPCA Animal Poison Control — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets

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If your cat has a condition

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