Salmon treats have become an increasingly popular snack option for cat owners looking to provide their feline friends with a tasty, protein-packed treat. But are salmon treats actually good for cats? There are a few key factors to consider when determining if salmon treats should be part of your cat’s diet.
Nutritional value
One of the biggest benefits of salmon treats is that they provide cats with a good source of protein. Salmon is rich in high-quality protein, providing essential amino acids that help support strong muscles and overall health. Many cat foods are deficient in optimal protein levels, so supplements like salmon treats can help make up this difference.
Salmon is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties and can benefit skin and coat health. They also support cognitive function and may reduce the risk of certain feline diseases. The omega-3s found in salmon are particularly beneficial because they come from fish sources, which cats efficiently utilize.
Other nutrients found in salmon include:
- Vitamin B12 – Important for metabolism and nerve function
- Selenium – Supports a healthy immune system
- Phosphorus – Key for strong bones and teeth
- Niacin – Helps convert food into energy
So in terms of its nutritional makeup, salmon contains many essential vitamins, minerals, protein, and fats that can complement a cat’s regular diet.
Potential benefits
Eating salmon treats may provide the following benefits for cats:
- Healthy skin and coat – The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can make a cat’s coat shiny and soft.
- Reduced inflammation – The anti-inflammatory effects of omega-3s may ease joint stiffness and other inflammatory issues.
- Heart health – The omega-3s in salmon may support cardiovascular function and heart rhythm.
- Brain development – Omega-3s play a role in cognitive function and neurological development.
- Immune support – Salmon provides vitamins and minerals that can strengthen the immune response.
- Lean protein source – The high-quality protein in salmon helps maintain lean muscle mass.
While more research is still needed, these potential benefits indicate that salmon oil and fish protein could be advantageous additions to a cat’s diet.
Potential risks
There are a few potential downsides to be aware of when feeding salmon treats to cats:
- Allergies – Some cats may have allergies to fish proteins. Reactions could include itchy skin, ear infections, and gastrointestinal upset.
- Mercury levels – Larger, predatory fish like salmon may contain higher mercury levels. Too much mercury can cause neurological damage in cats.
- Fat content – Some salmon treats are high in fat, which could lead to weight gain or pancreatitis if feeding guidelines aren’t followed.
- Lack of nutrients – Heavily processed salmon treats may not provide the same nutrient profile as raw salmon.
To reduce these risks, look for salmon treats made from wild-caught fish vs. farmed, and choose products preserved with natural methods instead of lots of additives. Only feed treats occasionally and in moderation.
Feeding guidelines
Follow these tips when feeding salmon treats to cats:
- Only purchase high-quality treats made by reputable companies.
- Read ingredient lists carefully and avoid products with additives.
- Start with small amounts of treats to check for any allergic reactions.
- Feed treats in moderation, replacing up to 10% of daily calories.
- Adjust regular diet to account for any extra calories from treats.
- Avoid giving treats if your cat has pancreatitis or obesity issues.
- Store treats properly and check expiration dates.
Following feeding guidelines will help ensure your cat gets the benefits of salmon treats without overconsumption. Talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Best salmon treats for cats
Looking for quality salmon cat treats? Here are some top picks:
| Brand | Product | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Ziwi Peak | Air Dried Mackerel & Salmon | – Grain-free, limited ingredients – 92% salmon and mackerel – Added vitamins & minerals |
| PureBites | PureSea Salmon Treats | – Single-ingredient treat – Made from wild salmon – Freeze dried |
| Whole Life Pet | Salmon & Catnip Recipe | – Salmon is the #1 ingredient – Contains catnip – Baked treat |
These treats provide cats with natural salmon protein in a tasty and nutritious snack. Always follow label instructions when feeding.
Can cats eat raw salmon?
It’s not recommended to feed raw salmon directly to cats. Raw salmon may contain harmful bacteria or parasites that can make cats sick. The small size of cats also makes it safest to cook salmon prior to feeding.
If you want to feed salmon raw, take these precautions:
- Choose wild-caught salmon, not farmed.
- Freeze the salmon first to kill any parasites.
- Thaw and cook to an internal temperature of 145°F to kill bacteria.
- Remove all bones, which are a choking hazard.
- Introduce raw salmon slowly mixed with your cat’s regular food.
Feeding small amounts of cooked salmon is a much safer option. Consult your vet before transitioning to a raw food diet.
Can cats have canned salmon?
It’s fine to feed your cat a moderate amount of canned salmon occasionally as a treat. Choose cans without added salt, oil, or other flavorings. Make sure to drain and rinse the salmon to remove excess sodium.
Benefits of canned salmon for cats include:
- Convenient and inexpensive option
- Provides protein, omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals
- Most cats enjoy the taste
- Cooked product eliminates food safety risks
Potential downsides of canned salmon include:
- Higher in sodium than fresh salmon
- May contain preservatives, fillers, and flavorings
- Higher fat content in oil-packed varieties
Overall, canned salmon makes an easy supplemental snack for cats in moderation. Just double check the ingredients first.
Homemade salmon cat treats
You can also make simple homemade salmon treats for your cat. Here are a few recipes to try:
Baked salmon treats
Ingredients:
- 1 (5 oz) can salmon, drained and flaked
- 1 egg
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 tbsp salmon oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- In a bowl, mix together salmon, egg, flour, and salmon oil if using.
- Roll dough into small balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes until lightly browned. Let cool before serving.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
Frozen salmon treats
Ingredients:
- 1lb raw salmon fillet, chopped
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- Bring water to a boil in a pan.
- Add salmon and cook for 3-5 minutes until opaque and flaky.
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
- Mash salmon into chunks with a fork.
- Spoon tablespoon-sized portions of salmon onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer treats to an airtight container or zip-top bag.
- Store frozen for up to 3 months.
Home cooking is a great way to control the ingredients in your cat’s salmon treats. Always use cooked salmon and proper storage methods.
Conclusion
Salmon can be a healthy supplemental treat for cats in moderation. The protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals in salmon provide nutritional benefits for skin, coat, heart, brain, and immune health. Purchase high-quality treats made from wild-caught salmon and follow feeding guidelines.
Potential risks like allergies, toxins, and overfeeding can be minimized through safe preparation methods and portion control. Talk to your vet if you have any concerns about incorporating salmon treats into your cat’s diet. Overall, salmon makes for a tasty and nutritious occasional treat when fed properly.