Can cats eat sardine?

Why

Cats can eat sardines as an occasional treat because they provide beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and protein. However, they must be given in very small quantities to prevent digestive upset and must never contain added salt, oils, or bones that could injure your pet.

If you do feed it

• Serve only plain, low-sodium, or fresh sardines with no added salt, garlic, onions, or spices.
• Remove all bones carefully or choose boneless varieties to prevent choking or internal injury.
• Limit treats to a small portion (e.g., half a sardine) no more than once or twice a week.
• Ensure the sardines are fully cooked or specifically labeled as safe for pets if using canned varieties.

Watch out for

• canned sardines packed in heavy salt or brine
• sardines with added garlic, onions, or spices
• whole sardines with sharp bones
• sardines in oil or butter
• sweetened or flavored sardine products

Better choices