Hey there fellow cat parents! As a pet nutrition blogger and cat lover, I’ve gotten this question countless times from worried pet owners Let me tell you straight up – while cats can eat shrimp, raw shrimp is a big NO-NO for our furry friends Let’s dive into everything you need to know about feeding shrimp to your cat safely!
Quick Answer
Nope, don’t give your cat raw shrimp! Always cook it properly first. Raw shrimp can contain harmful bacteria that could make your kitty sick.
Why Your Cat Shouldn’t Eat Raw Shrimp
Listen up – I know your cat might give you those irresistible puppy eyes (err. kitty eyes?) when they smell that fresh shrimp, but here’s why you gotta resist
- Raw shrimp contains dangerous bacteria
- Could cause nasty tummy problems
- Risk of food poisoning
- Might lead to vomiting and diarrhea
- Can trigger serious health issues
The Right Way to Feed Shrimp to Your Cat
Ok so here’s what ya need to do if you wanna treat your fur baby to some shrimpies
-
Cook it Thoroughly
- No seasonings (seriously, skip the garlic and spices!)
- Make sure it’s fully cooked
- Let it cool down completely
-
Prep it Properly
- Remove ALL shells and tails
- Cut into small, bite-sized pieces
- No breading or sauces
-
Portion Control
- Small cats: Half a shrimp per serving
- Big cats (like those chunky Maine Coons): One whole shrimp
- Only 1-2 times per week max
Benefits of (Cooked) Shrimp for Cats
When prepared right, shrimp can actually be pretty good for your kitty:
- Low in calories
- High in protein
- Rich in vitamin B12
- Contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
- Good source of choline
Warning Signs to Watch For
After giving your cat shrimp for the first time, keep an eye out for:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tummy pain
- Loss of appetite
- Weird behavior
If you notice any of these, no more shrimp for kitty! Call your vet if symptoms persist.
Other Seafood Options for Your Cat
If your cat’s a seafood lover, here are some other safe options (always cooked!):
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Sardines
My Personal Experience
I remember when my cat Whiskers first tried shrimp – she went absolutely bonkers for it! But I learned the hard way that portion control is key. One time, I gave her too much and… well, let’s just say my carpet cleaner got a workout that day!
The 90/10 Rule
Here’s the deal – treats like shrimp should only make up 10% of your cat’s daily calories. The other 90% should come from their regular cat food. Think of shrimp as like cat candy – a special treat, not a meal replacement!
FAQ About Cats and Shrimp
Q: Can kittens eat shrimp?
A: Better wait till they’re older and check with your vet first.
Q: What about frozen shrimp?
A: Gotta cook it first! No exceptions!
Q: Can I give my cat breaded shrimp?
A: Nope – plain cooked shrimp only!
Bottom Line
Look, I get it – we love spoiling our cats! But when it comes to shrimp, always remember:
- Cook it thoroughly
- Remove shells and tails
- Keep portions tiny
- Monitor for reactions
- Make it an occasional treat only
And most importantly – NO RAW SHRIMP, like, ever! Keep your kitty safe and healthy, and they’ll be your purring bestie for years to come!
Would you like me to explain anything else about feeding shrimp to your cat? Drop a comment below! And don’t forget to share your own cat-and-shrimp stories – I’d love to hear them!
How Much Shrimp Can Cats Eat?
For most kitties, it’s safe to offer a small amount of shrimp once or twice a week as a special treat. A small cat can likely eat half of one shrimp per serving, while a large cat (like a 15-pound Maine Coon) can probably eat one full shrimp.
But before offering any shrimp to your cat:
- Check with your veterinarian to make sure it’s OK that your kitty has this snack.
- Offer your cat a small taste of shrimp, and then monitor them for any adverse signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal discomfort.
- If your cat doesn’t show any symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) upset, you can continue feeding them shrimp. Do not offer your cat more shrimp if you notice any of the above symptoms.
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…