Can cats eat salmon?
Cooked, boneless salmon can be an occasional treat, but it doesn’t replace complete cat food because it lacks nutrients (iCatCare, Cornell). Don’t feed it raw: raw fish can contain thiaminase and germs (Merck, Cornell).
How to serve it: fully cooked, boneless, no seasoning or salt; not smoked
Good to know: iCatCare mentions fish as a treat mainly for cats that won’t eat, with the vet’s OK.
How much is okay
All treats together: at most 10% of daily calories. Enter your cat’s weight:
Salmon
up to 0.41 oz a day
12 g
10% of 241 kcal a day, for a spayed or neutered cat with normal activity. If your cat gets other treats too, give less.
Questions
What amount of salmon is okay for my cat?
All treats together: at most 10% of daily calories. For a spayed or neutered cat with normal activity weighing 9 lb, that’s up to 0.41 oz (12 g) a day. Work out the amount for your cat above.
Can dogs eat salmon?
Yes, but only a little. AKC says fully cooked, deboned salmon is fine for dogs. Raw or undercooked salmon can carry parasites and bacteria; smoked salmon is too salty.
Sources
- International Cat Care – How to encourage your cat to eat
- International Cat Care – Toxoplasmosis and cats
- Cornell Feline Health Center – Feeding Your Cat
- Merck Veterinary Manual – Nutritional Requirements of Small Animals
- Nutrition data: USDA FoodData Central (206 kcal per 100 g)
Last checked: October 2026