Can cats eat tuna?

Tuna is a favourite among felines, and it’s easy to see why! The strong aroma and rich taste make it an irresistible treat. But can cats eat tuna? The short answer is yes, in moderation. While tuna has some great benefits, it should make up a small part of your cat’s diet.

At Applaws, we know how much cats love tuna, and we’re here to help you feed it safely and responsibly.

Is tuna safe for cats?

Yes, tuna is safe for adult cats in small amounts as an occasional treat, but it should never replace a nutritionally complete cat food.

 Tuna is:

• High in protein & low in carbohydrates – great for muscle health.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids – supports a healthy coat and skin.
• Tasty & appealing – perfect for fussy felines.

However, what tuna doesn’t have is essential nutrients like taurine, vitamin E, and calcium, which are necessary for your cat’s long-term health. That’s why it’s best to feed it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How much tuna can cats eat?

Tuna should be a small part of your cat’s overall diet to make sure they receive all their essential nutrients from complete and balanced cat food.

Safe tuna feeding guidelines:

• Offer in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a daily meal.
• Check with your vet – especially for older cats and cats with kidney disease.

Are there any risks of feeding tuna to your cat?

While tuna is a tasty treat, feeding too much can cause nutritional imbalances and other health concerns.

• Nutritional imbalance – Tuna lacks essential nutrients, such as taurine, which is critical for heart and eye health.
• High in phosphorus – Not ideal for older cats or cats with kidney disease, as too much phosphorus can strain kidney function.
• Mercury content – Large amounts of tuna over time could lead to heavy metal toxicity, so moderation is key.

The best tuna option for cats?

For a safe and nutritious option, choose a high-quality, tuna-based cat food that is specifically formulated to give them complete and balanced nutrition.