Why?
Some raw fish, like carp or herring, contain an enzyme called thiaminase that destroys vitamin B1 (thiamine). Fed regularly, they can cause a serious deficiency, with loss of appetite, wobbliness, a neck that bends down toward the chest, and even seizures. Raw fish can also carry parasites like Anisakis and bacteria like Listeria or Salmonella. Cooking takes care of all of this; freezing alone doesn't.
How much?
Don't feed raw fish, sushi, sashimi or poke. Cook fish all the way through, steamed or baked, with no salt, and remove every bone.
The risks
- Vitamin B1 deficiency: loss of appetite, neurological signs
- Parasites like Anisakis
- Bacteria: Listeria, Salmonella
- Bones that get stuck in the throat
- Sushi extras: seasoned rice, salty soy sauce, wasabi
Your cat ate some: what now?
A bite of raw fish usually isn't serious: vitamin B1 deficiency comes from repeated meals over weeks. Watch for 24 to 48 hours and call your vet for vomiting, diarrhea or lethargy. If your cat has been eating raw fish regularly and loses appetite, wobbles or bends their neck down, get to a vet urgently.
Better options
Plain cooked salmon, cod or shrimp are safe treats. Fish-based cat food is another good option.
Common questions
Can cats eat sushi?
No. Besides the raw fish, sushi comes with seasoned rice, salty soy sauce and wasabi. Save your cat a small piece of plain cooked fish instead.
Does freezing make raw fish safe for cats?
Only partly. Freezing kills some parasites but not all bacteria, and it doesn't destroy thiaminase. Only cooking takes care of all three.
This information is general and does not replace advice from a veterinarian. If your cat has swallowed something toxic, call your vet or an animal poison control center right away, without waiting for symptoms.