Cats can eat anchovies. Anchovies are a healthy fish snack and are not toxic to cats. One or two pieces of anchovy can serve as a tasty treat for your cat occasionally. If you are looking to introduce a supplement diet to your feline, this salt water small fish might just be what your cat needs. Anchovies are tasty and packed with loads of nutritional benefits for your cat. They are famously praised for their omega-3 fatty acid content that does wonders for your cat's health. When fed in moderate quantity, anchovies, cheap as they can be, are good for your cat and can easily become a regular treat for your cat.
In this post, I'll be talking more about the health benefits of anchovies to your cat. I'll also discuss the best way to feed anchovy to your cat. So, let's get right to it.
Can Cats Eat Anchovies?
Anchovies are small silvery saltwater fishes that belong to the Engraulidae family. They are known as a great source of essential vitamins and nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, vitamin B3, vitamin D, and lots more. Humans enjoy the tasty fish treat by itself or as part of a dish. Either way, anchovies are consumed for their taste and nutritional benefits.
Cats can eat anchovies, too. It is safe for them as long as they consume it in moderate quantities. Anchovies are rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The extra protein from the fish is beneficial to your feline.
If you have ever considered feeding the fish diet to your cat, you are on the right track. Anchovies are not toxic to cats. You may choose to feed anchovies once or twice a week to your cat, as long as your feline does not show any signs of allergic reaction or stomach upset.
Are Anchovies good for my cat?
Yes, anchovies are packed with a lot of health benefits for your cat. Below are some of the great nutritional benefits that make anchovies a healthy snack choice for your cat:
- Source of Protein: Anchovies contain protein that is needed by your cat. Cats need animal protein to survive. Anchovies can become an occasional source of much-needed protein for your cat.
- Source of good fat: Anchovies contain a great deal of omega 3 fat which is the good fat. This fat supports the growth of a fuller coat for your cat. It also improves the general skin of your cat, leading to healthier skin.
- Improved immune system: The vitamin B12 content in anchovy is essential for your feline's immune system. It is also vital for their nervous system and digestive tract. Vitamin B12 prevents the occurrence of some chronic illnesses such as dementia.
- Improved night vision: Anchovy is a great source of vitamin B that is necessary for clear night vision in cats. Cats require a certain amount of vitamin A to avoid night blindness. Vitamin A also helps prevent other complications in cats.
- Strong bones and teeth: Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth in cats. Anchovies are a great source of calcium. It is worthy of note that cats need vitamin D to absorb calcium. Cats, unlike humans, cannot synthesize vitamin D which they need. The good news is anchovy is a good source of both calcium and the much-needed vitamin D.
How Should I feed Anchovies to my Cat?
Cats can enjoy anchovies in a variety of forms. Anchovies can be consumed either cooked, grilled or dried.
To allow your feline to enjoy all the nutrients in the fish snack, you can cook the fish by boiling it. Boiling ensures harmful bacteria are killed or rendered inactive. When boiling/cooking, make sure you do not add salt or any flavorings as this can be very harmful to your cat.
You can also cook the fish by grilling. Grilling ensures the anchovy is cooked without additional oil. This is a healthy way to feed your cat because the extra oil may cause stomach upset or vomiting. Anchovies can be grilled and served whole or cut into chunks for your cat. If at all you need to fry, ensure you keep the oil very minimal, no more than two tablespoons of oil should be used.
Dried anchovies are also very healthy for your cat. You can oven dry raw anchovies and store them for a long time. That way, you can save costs.
Another way to feed anchovies to your cat is by purchasing canned anchovies from stores. Canned anchovies are pre-cooked and thus, safe for your cat. Canned anchovies are usually in either water or olive oil. Anchovy preserved in water rather than oil is highly recommended. Once the water has been drained, you can serve the fish snack to your cat. However, if you purchase canned anchovies that have an oil base or are preserved in oil, you can allow the oil to drain completely before serving them to your cat.
Can I feed raw anchovies to my cat?
Cats should not be fed raw anchovies. Raw fish may contain some bacteria that can be really harmful to your cat.
On no account should you feed raw anchovies or fish in general to your cat. Raw anchovy contains bacteria that can cause food poisoning or other fatal diseases. The best way to ensure your feline is protected is to thoroughly cook the anchovies before treating them to your cat.
Final Words
Anchovy is a healthy snack that your cat is sure going to love. The saltwater fish is not harmful to cats and can become an occasional treat for your cat.
However, if your cat shows any negative reaction after consuming anchovies, stop feeding it to them and consult your veterinarian immediately. Cats can be sensitive and selective when it comes to food and as such, if you are looking to include anchovies in their diet, you have to do so slowly so that they can adjust to it.
Cats don't need to eat fish. But if your cat shows any interest, you can feed them anchovies occasionally.