Why?
Shrimp is high in protein and low in fat, and most cats love it. Just remove the shell, head and tail, which are hard, can irritate the gut and are a choking hazard. Store-bought cooked shrimp is often boiled in salted water, and raw shrimp can carry bacteria. As with all seafood, some cats don't tolerate it well.
How much?
One or two peeled shrimp, cut into pieces, now and then. Ideally cook them yourself in unsalted water. No shrimp in sauce, garlic butter, batter or cocktail sauce.
The risks
- Shell, head and tail: choking and gut irritation
- Store-bought cooked shrimp is often salted
- Raw shrimp: bacteria
- Garlic butter, cocktail sauce or batter
- Possible intolerance: vomiting, itching
Your cat ate some: what now?
A few plain shrimp are no problem. If your cat ate a lot, shells included, or garlicky shrimp, watch for 24 to 48 hours and call your vet for vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, drooling or lethargy.
Better options
A bit of plain cooked white fish or salmon makes another great seafood treat.
Common questions
Can cats eat shrimp shells or tails?
It's best not to. Shells and tails are hard, can irritate the throat and gut, and are a choking hazard. Always peel shrimp before sharing.
Can cats eat raw shrimp?
Not a good idea. Raw shrimp can carry bacteria like Vibrio and Salmonella. Cook it plain first.
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.