Shrimp is one of the tastiest seafoods around, and while it’s a bit tedious to prepare, the entire process can be worth it. It’s a yummy treat for us humans, but is it the same for our best friends? Can cats eat shrimp?
Essentially, yes. Cats can eat shrimp. It’s a healthy, nutritious, and yummy treat. But just like any other type of food, all the precautions must be considered. It’s not as simple as handing it over to your cat’s bowl.
In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about shrimp and if it’s good for cats.
What Does a Cat Need?
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they need animal protein to thrive and grow. They don’t get the same nutritional value we get from vegetables and fruits, so feeding shrimp can be beneficial for them.
Some of the key nutrients cats need include:
Protein
Taurine
Arginine
Healthy fats
Vitamins A, D, and E
Calcium
Phosphorus
Because cats require such a specific balance of nutrients, their main meals should always come from commercial cat food that’s complete and balanced. Shrimp can just be a moderate treat.
Is Shrimp Good for Cats?
Shrimp is packed with nutrients that can benefit cats. Here are the key ones:
Rich in High-Quality Protein
High-quality protein is an important part of a cat’s diet. This nutrient supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall energy levels. For an active cat, the lean protein shrimp provides a boost without the extra fat, crabs, or additives.
High in Healthy Fats
Shrimp also has a good amount of healthy fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids. While it doesn’t have as much as salmon or tuna, it’s still a good source. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that support a cat’s skin and coat health as well as its heart.
Has Vitamin B12
Cats can get vitamin B12 from shrimp, which is essential for nerve function, energy production, and overall digestion. Since they cannot produce vitamin B12 on their own, having a treat that has it is great for cats.
Contains Essential Minerals
Shrimp is a good source of minerals such as phosphorus and selenium. Phosphorus works with calcium to strengthen bones and teeth, helps with energy production, and supports cell repair. On the other hand, selenium has a role in being a potential antioxidant, immune system support, and thyroid health.
Has Choline
Shrimp also has choline, which is a nutrient that boosts liver health, fat metabolism, and cognitive function.
Low in Calories
Along with all these benefits, shrimp is good for cats because of its low-calorie content. This means that every treat will be a nutrient boost without the drawbacks.
When Is Shrimp Bad for Cats?
While it's a nutritious treat, there are times when shrimp can be bad for cats.
Allergies and Sensitivities
Some cats can be allergic to shellfish, shrimps included. This can result in allergic reactions such as itching, irritation, and swelling. Affected cats can appear to be visibly irritated as they hide and excessively scratch their skin.
Choking Hazards and Digestive Trouble
Shrimp shells, tails, and heads are tough, making them a choking hazard. Plus, these parts also have sharp edges that can potentially damage the mouth, throat, or entire digestive tract, causing digestive pain and vomiting.
Additives and Seasonings
Many store-bought or frozen shrimp are pre-seasoned, brined, or treated with preservatives to extend shelf life. Plus, almost all types of shrimp meant for humans contain seasonings such as salt and garlic powder. These ingredients are harmful, especially in large amounts.
Preservatives. Digestive issues, sensitivities, organ damage, and thiamine deficiency.
Salt. Dehydration, vomiting, lethargy, tremors, seizures, and death.
Garlic Powder. Red blood cell damage, organ failure, lethargy, and collapse.
Overfeeding and Nutritional Imbalance
Even if shrimp is low in calories, there are still some things that could go wrong. Feeding too much can lead to weight gain, digestive upset, and nutritional imbalance. Shrimp should only be given as snacks so they won’t interfere with your cat’s main dietary needs.
How Much Shrimp Can Cats Eat?
Most cats can benefit from a single piece of an average-sized shrimp. If your cat is much bigger, much like the Maine Coon or Savannah cat, they can take two pieces of shrimp of the same size.
Kittens and younger cats will need more consideration. Half a shrimp is usually enough for them. If your cat has any health issues, then we recommend checking with us first to see if we can add shrimp as treats.
How to Prepare Shrimp for Cats
The way you prepare shrimp is an important step if you want to give them to your cat.
Choose the Right Shrimp
Pick fresh or frozen shrimp that have no added salt, seasoning, or preservatives. Don’t use pre-cooked shrimp, as these mostly have additives that are meant for humans and not for cats.
Remove the Bad Parts
Peel off the shell and remove the head, tail, and vein. These parts are hard to chew, inedible, and can potentially damage your cat’s digestive system.
Cook Properly
Boiling and steaming are the best ways to cook shrimp for cats. Cook them until they reach a firm and pink condition. Never cook with oil, butter, or spices.
Don’t Add Seasonings
Never add any additives or seasonings during the cooking process. Plain, cooked shrimp is the best type of shrimp for cats.
Cut Into Smaller Pieces
Cut this into smaller pieces to help your cat chew and swallow them. This will help them eat the shrimp with a much smaller risk of choking.
Give Slowly
Give the pieces slowly so you can control your cat’s eating pace. Cats can eat shrimp along with their main meals, either as a meal topper or a separate snack.
“A healthy cat is built on a safe, balanced, and nutritious diet.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
Shrimp is good for cats, and it’s a yummy treat our best friends can enjoy. It’s a good snack full of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, it’s low in calories. But just like any type of treat, you have only to give shrimp sparingly, and never more than what’s recommended.
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