Hey there fellow cat lovers! As a passionate pet blogger and cat mom, I’ve noticed lots of questions popping up about feeding shrimp to our furry friends. Today, I’m gonna break down everything you need to know about cats and shrimp tails – cuz we all want our kitties to be safe and happy!
Quick Answer Nope cats should NOT eat shrimp tails! While shrimp meat is safe for cats in moderation those pesky tails are a big no-no.
Why Shrimp Tails Are Dangerous for Your Kitty
Look, I get it – your cat might be giving you those irresistible puppy eyes (err… kitty eyes?) when you’re enjoying some shrimp. But here’s why you gotta resist sharing those tails:
- Choking Hazard: Those tails can get stuck in your cat’s throat – and nobody wants an emergency vet visit!
- Intestinal Blockage: If swallowed, shrimp tails might cause a dangerous blockage in your cat’s digestive system
- Zero Nutritional Value: Tbh, shrimp tails offer practically no health benefits for your furbaby
The Right Way to Feed Shrimp to Your Cat
If you wanna treat your cat to some shrimp (and who doesn’t?) here’s how to do it safely
-
Proper Portion Size
- Small cats: 1/2 shrimp per serving
- Large cats (like them chunky Maine Coons): 1 whole shrimp
-
Preparation Steps:
- Cook it thoroughly (no raw shrimp!)
- Remove ALL shells and tails
- Let it cool down completely
- Cut into tiny, manageable pieces
- Skip the seasonings (no garlic or other fancy stuff)
How Often Can Cats Eat Shrimp?
Here’s the deal – treats should make up less than 10% of your cat’s daily calories. For shrimp specifically:
- Offer it 1-2 times per week max
- Keep it as a special treat
- Always monitor your kitty for any weird reactions
The Good Stuff: Benefits of Shrimp Meat for Cats
When prepared right, shrimp can actually be pretty awesome for your cat:
- Low in calories
- High in protein
- Rich in vitamin B12
- Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Includes choline
- Super tasty (according to my cat’s very enthusiastic feedback!)
Other Safe Seafood Options for Your Kitty
If your cat’s a seafood fan, here are some other safe options to try:
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Sardines
Remember tho – these should all be:
- Well-cooked
- Unseasoned
- Given in moderation
Safety First: Watch Out for These Signs
When introducing shrimp to your cat’s diet, keep an eye out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tummy discomfort
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s probably best to skip the shrimp and stick to their regular food.
My Personal Experience
NGL, my cat Whiskers went absolutely bonkers the first time I gave her shrimp! But I learned the hard way that proper prep is super important. One time, I got lazy and didn’t remove the tail completely – ended up with a scary vet visit. Don’t be like me, fam – take the extra minute to prepare it right!
The Bottom Line
While cats can totally enjoy shrimp as an occasional treat, those tails are def off-limits. Stick to properly prepared, tail-free shrimp pieces, and your kitty can safely enjoy this tasty seafood treat!
Quick Tips to Remember:
- ✅ Always remove tails and shells
- ✅ Cook thoroughly
- ✅ Keep portions small
- ✅ Monitor for reactions
- ❌ No raw shrimp
- ❌ No seasonings
- ❌ No shells or tails
Before trying any new foods, including shrimp, it’s always smart to check with your vet first. Every cat is different, and what works for my Whiskers might not work for your furball!
Have you tried giving your cat shrimp? Drop a comment below and share your experience! And don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more purrfect pet advice!
Disclaimer: I’m just a cat-obsessed blogger sharing my experience – always consult your vet for professional advice about your specific pet’s dietary needs!
How To Prepare Shrimp for Cats
Shrimp for cats should be carefully prepared before it’s placed in your cat’s food bowl. First, it must be thoroughly cooked. Raw shrimp can contain bacteria, which will be killed through cooking.
Let the shrimp cool until it’s comfortable to handle, and then remove the shell and tail. Cut the remaining shrimp into small pieces before offering it to your cat.
Do not use any seasonings or dressings when preparing shrimp for cats. These could contain toxic ingredients, such as garlic, and result in digestive upset.
Other Foods To Feed Your Cat
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat meat to get the nutrition they need. There are many types of meat your cat can eat as an occasional snack (though, they should always get 90% of their daily calories from well-balanced cat food).
Try offering your cat:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Beef
- Lamb
- Liver
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Sardines
Make sure the meat is always well-cooked and free from any seasonings. And remember: Always talk to your veterinarian before adding anything new to your cat’s diet.
Sandra Mitchell is a 1995 graduate of the New York State College of Veterinary Medicine. Since graduation, she has worked in many fields…
Feeding Pets Shrimp Tails
FAQ
Can cats have cooked shrimp tails?
If steamed/pre-cooked like most shrimp is, its fine. It makes a nice treat. My cats go crazy when we have shrimp and we always let them have a nibble when we prep.
Is it safe for cats to eat shrimp?
Can animals eat shrimp tails?
Can Dogs Eat Shrimp Tails? Despite myths to the contrary, dogs can eat shrimp tails.
What to do if my cat ate shrimp shell?
They can carry harmful bacteria like Salmonella or Vibrio, which can cause foodborne illness in cats. What should I do if my cat eats shrimp shells? Monitor your cat for symptoms like choking, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort. If you notice any issues, contact your veterinarian immediately.