Can Cats Eat Shellfish?
Cats are known for their love of fish, but can cats eat shellfish such as shrimp and lobster? The simple answer is no. Shellfish such as shrimp and lobster contain toxins that can be dangerous for cats to consume, so it’s best to avoid feeding them these types of food.
The Dangers Of Feeding Cats Shellfish
Shellfish contains a naturally-occurring toxin called domoic acid which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. This toxin causes neurological symptoms such as tremors, seizures, disorientation, and even death. It is also known to cause digestive issues including vomiting and diarrhea in some cases. For this reason, it’s important to keep cats away from any type of shellfish or seafood containing the toxin.
What Types Of Seafood Can Cats Eat?
Fortunately there are plenty of other types of seafood that are safe for cats to eat! Fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel and trout all make great options for your feline friend since they’re rich in beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids which help support healthy skin and coat health. Cooked white meats like chicken or turkey without the bones can also be offered occasionally as an occasional treat however should not form part of their regular diet due its higher fat content than fish sources provide. Overall when offering your cat any type of human food ensure that you first check with your veterinarian before making any changes or additions to their existing diet plan are made safely by following recommended portion sizes according guidelines provided by professionals managing pet nutrition needs today!
Conclusion
In conclusion while shellfish may look appetizing enough for humans we must remember that our furry friends have different digestion systems then us so what might seem harmless could end up being very poisonous indeed! For this reason it’s best always err on the side caution when looking into introducing new foods into kitty’s diet – especially those found at sea – because ultimately safety comes first when it comes down taking care our beloved pets both internally externally at all times!
