Can Cats Eat Sushi? Here’s What You Need to Know

I was talking to a friend the other day, and he mentioned that his cat loves sushi.

He then proceeded to ask me if it’s okay for him to feed his feline some of the Japanese delicacy. I knew there had been some studies done on this subject in recent years, but I wasn’t sure how conclusive they were.

So, before we went any further with our conversation about whether or not cats could eat sushi (spoiler alert: Yes), I did more research on this topic and here’s what you need to know.

Can cats eat sushi?

Yes, cats can eat sushi. But should they eat it? No. The main reason for this is that sushi is typically made with fish and cats can eat fish. It’s also a great source of protein for cats.

However, raw fish is a no-no, and your furry friend should not eat it raw.

Types of Sushi

There are many different types of sushi, but the most common type is nigiri sushi. Nigiri sushi is made with raw fish that is sliced into thin strips and then placed on top of rice balls.

Other types of sushi include maki rolls (sushi rolls wrapped in seaweed), temaki (hand-rolled cones of seaweed filled with rice and fish), and lastly, sashimi is a type of sushi that consists only of raw fish without any rice.

Can cats eat raw fish?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that their bodies are designed to digest and use only animal-based proteins. This is why a diet of raw meat and organs is best for your cat. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. One of these exceptions is raw fish.

Sushi is typically made with raw fish, which can be dangerous for cats to eat. Raw fish may contain harmful bacteria or parasites that can make your cat sick.

Can cats eat cooked sushi?

Yes, cats can eat cooked sushi. While most cats would not turn down a chance to eat sushi, it is important to remember that sushi is not a natural part of a cat’s diet.

While there are some potential benefits to feeding your cat cooked sushi (such as the high protein content), there are also some risks associated with it. Cooked fish can be high in mercury, which can be toxic to cats.

Overall, it is best to avoid feeding your cat sushi. If you do decide to give it to them, make sure that the fish is cooked thoroughly and that there are no bones or other dangerous ingredients present.

What are the benefits of sushi for cats?

1. Low-calorie option for cats

Sushi is a healthy option for cats because it is low in calories and fat. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the coat and skin. In addition, sushi contains taurine, an amino acid that is essential for heart health.

2. Can help with weight loss in cats

Sushi is a low-calorie food, which means it can help your cat lose weight. If your cat is overweight, it can be a great way to help them slim down.

3. Source of protein for cats

Sushi is also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are essential for a healthy diet. Protein helps build and repair muscle tissue, while omega-3 fatty acids support the immune system and keep the coat healthy and shiny.

Nutrient	% of daily calories needs
Protein	10.24%
Lipid fat	2.35%
Dietary fiber	3.51%
Magnesium (Mg)	0.05%
Phosphorus (P)	0.21 %
Potassium (K)	0.16%
Sodium (Na)	0.15%

What are the risks of sushi for cats?

Although sushi has some benefits for your furry friend, the risks outweigh the benefits. Some include:

1. Can contain harmful bacteria

Sushi can contain harmful bacteria for cats, which can lead to symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Treatment for this condition typically involves antibiotics.

The symptoms of sushi poisoning in cats include vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases, the cat may experience dehydration and weight loss.

The treatment typically involves antibiotics. In severe cases, the cat may need to be hospitalized for intravenous fluids and other supportive care.

3. May contain high levels of metals

Cats can be exposed to metals such as mercury if they eat fish that contain high levels of the element. Mercury poisoning can cause a variety of health problems in cats, including kidney damage, anemia, and neurological problems.

Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures. If you suspect your kitto has been poisoned by mercury, seek veterinary care immediately.

4. Can trigger an allergy

As with humans, cats can also experience allergies. Signs of an allergic reaction include:

• Itching

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Difficulty breathing

• Hives

• Swelling of the face, ears, or paws.

If your cat has eaten sushi and begins to show any of these symptoms, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.

While most reactions will not be this severe, any time your cat has an allergic reaction it is a good idea to have them seen by a vet to ensure they are monitored and treated properly.

5. Can contain parasites for cats

Your cat can easily get roundworms and other parasites from eating raw sushi. Symptoms may include a bloated stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting. In some severe cases, it may lead to intestine obstruction.

If you want to find out more about parasites worms found in sushi (some of which affect humans too), check out this article.

6. Ethoxyquin in fish food

Ethoxyquin is a chemical used as a preservative in some foods and as a rubber stabilizer. It is also used in pesticides and has been linked to health problems in animals.

Cats are particularly sensitive to ethoxyquin, and it can cause liver damage, kidney damage, and cancer. Symptoms of ethoxyquin poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin).

This can be very serious and include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin). If you think your cat has been exposed to ethoxyquin, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What are safe sushi options for Cats?

1. Shrimp

Yes, shrimp is safe for cats to eat in moderation. Shrimp is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for your cat’s coat and skin. However, shrimp also contains mercury, so they should be fed in moderation.

2. Avocado

Yes, avocado is safe for cats to eat in moderation. The benefits of avocado for cats include its high fat and protein content, which can help keep your cat’s coat healthy and shiny.

However, avocado also contains a compound called persin, which can be toxic to some animals. So, it’s important to make sure that your cat only eats small amounts of avocado and does not consume the pit or skin.

3. Seaweed

Yes, seaweed is safe for cats. In fact, it can be a healthy and nutritious addition to their diet. Seaweed is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that can help support your cat’s overall health.

It’s a good source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that can help support your cat’s overall health. Some of the benefits associated with seaweed include:

4. Cucumber

Cucumber is a great sushi option for cats. There is no risk of mercury poisoning or other health concerns associated with eating cucumber.

Additionally, it is low in calories and fat, and high in water content, making it a healthy and refreshing choice. Cucumber also contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals such as potassium and magnesium.

The Sushi Ingredients That Cats Should Not Have

1. Raw Fish

Sushi made with raw fish can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause food poisoning. If your cat has a weakened immune system, you’re at a higher risk for developing more serious illness from eating raw fish.

Additionally, some types of fish used in sushi, such as tuna, swordfish and mackerel, can contain high levels of mercury. Eating too much mercury-contaminated seafood can cause mercury poisoning.

The symptoms of food poisoning from eating raw fish include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Abdominal pain or cramps

Treatment: If you think your furry friend has food poisoning from sushi, see your vet right away. Your cat might need antibiotics to treat a bacterial infection or other medication to treat parasites.

2. Wasabi

Wasabi is not safe for cats. The symptoms of wasabi poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If your cat ingests wasabi, please contact your veterinarian immediately.

How can you make sushi safe for cats?

1. Use sushi-grade fish

Sushi-grade fish is fish that is safe to eat raw. This means that the fish has been frozen at a very low temperature (-20°C/-4°F or below) for a specific amount of time (usually around 2 weeks), killing any parasites that may be present.

You can usually find sushi-grade fish at specialty seafood stores or Japanese markets. If you’re having trouble finding it, you can ask the store manager or fishmonger if they have any sushi-grade fish available.

2. Avoid using raw fish

Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

If you’re looking for a way to give your cat sushi without the risks, there are a few alternatives you can try. One is to feed them cooked fish instead. This will eliminate the risk of food poisoning and exposure to parasites, but it won’t provide all of the same health benefits as raw fish.

Another option is to give them canned tuna or salmon (in water or oil). This is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, and it’s relatively safe since it’s cooked before being canned. Just be sure to avoid brands that contain added salt, as this can be harmful to cats.

3. Use nori sheets

To make sushi safe for cats, use nori sheets instead of rice. Nori sheets are a type of seaweed that is commonly used in sushi. They are safe for cats to eat and can actually be quite healthy for them.

Cats like the taste of nori and it is a good source of vitamins and minerals. This seaweed is easier for cats to digest and is less likely to cause an upset stomach.

What are some alternative foods for cats?

There are a variety of alternative foods available for cats, including:

Raw meat: This is a controversial option, as some experts believe that it can be dangerous for cats due to the risk of bacteria and parasites. However, others believe that raw meat is a healthy option for cats.

Fish: Cats love fish, and it can be a healthy addition to their diet. However, it is important to make sure that the fish is cooked properly to avoid the risk of food poisoning.

Sushi: This is another controversial option, as some believe that the raw fish in sushi can be dangerous for cats. However, if the sushi is made with cooked fish or vegetables, it can be a safe and healthy treat for your cat.

How Can I Feed Sushi To My Cats?

The most popular types of sushi are nigiri sushi and maki sushi. Nigiri sushi is made with a small mound of rice that is topped with a piece of fish or seafood. Maki sushi is made by rolling rice and fish or seafood in seaweed paper.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re going to feed your cat sushi.

First of all, make sure that the sushi you give them is fully cooked. Raw fish can contain bacteria that can make your cat sick.

Secondly, avoid giving your cat any sushi that contains ingredients like wasabi or soy sauce. These can be harmful to cats if ingested in large quantities.

If you want to give your cat a special treat, try making them some “cat sushi.” This is simply cooked rice wrapped in nori seaweed sheets. Your cat will love it!

FAQ

Can cats eat sushi rice?

While cats may not be as enthusiastic about rice as they are about sushi, it’s still good food for them to eat. Rice is a great source of carbohydrates and provides essential nutrients like thiamine and niacin. Plus, it’s easy to digest, making it a good option for cats with sensitive stomachs.

Can I give my cat leftover sushi?

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require animal protein to survive. However, sushi is not a good source of animal protein for cats and can actually be harmful.

Sushi is typically made with raw fish, and raw fish can contain harmful bacteria that can make your cat sick. If you want to give your cat a treat, there are much better options available.

How do you make sushi cat friendly?

There are a few things to consider when choosing sushi for your cat. The fish should be cooked, and the rice should be plain. You also want to avoid any sushi that contains wasabi or other spicy sauces, as these can be harmful to cats.

Can sushi kill cats?

Sushi does not kill cats but causes health issues. Keep in mind raw fish may contain parasites and mercury which don’t in any way favor your kitto’s health.