Can Cats Eat Shrimp? Cooked, Raw, Shells and Allergies
Shrimp has an aroma that cats often cannot resist, and a small cooked piece is usually a safe indulgence. Because shrimp is a shellfish, there are a few specific things to watch for, such as shells, seasoning and allergies, and these are easy to manage once you know them.
What shrimp offers
Shrimp is a low-fat, high-protein food that provides selenium, vitamin B12, iodine and phosphorus. It is also naturally low in carbohydrates, which suits a carnivore. The omega-3 content is lower than in oily fish such as salmon.
Despite these virtues, shrimp is not a balanced meal. It lacks the full range of nutrients that complete cat food provides, and it should be an occasional treat only.
Safe preparation
- Peel completely. Remove the shell, legs and tail, which can cause choking or intestinal obstruction.
- Devein. The dark vein is the intestinal tract and may contain grit.
- Cook plain. Boil, steam or poach with no salt, butter, oil, garlic or seasoning. Garlic and onion are toxic, as described in are onions and garlic toxic to cats.
- Chop small. Cut into pieces smaller than a pea, especially for small cats.
- Cool and refrigerate. Use leftovers within a day or two.
How much is okay?
A single cooked shrimp has only a few calories, so one or two is a reasonable treat. Keep all treats to about 10 percent of daily calories. Our free cat food amount calculator shows how much that is for your cat.
Raw shrimp and food safety
Raw shrimp can carry Vibrio and other bacteria, and handling it can contaminate surfaces and hands. Cooking until the flesh is pink and opaque solves the problem. Wash your hands and any surfaces after preparing seafood, and do not leave cooked shrimp out for more than a couple of hours.
Sodium and processed shrimp
Shrimp is naturally somewhat high in sodium, and many products are much saltier. Frozen shrimp is sometimes treated with preservatives such as sodium tripolyphosphate, and cocktail sauce, breading, butter and garlic add more problems. Avoid shrimp from restaurants and packaged shrimp rings. If you buy raw shrimp to cook for your cat, choose plain, unseasoned shrimp.
Allergies to watch for
Shellfish allergies can occur in cats, though they are not common. Signs may include itching, hives, facial swelling, vomiting and diarrhea, and a severe reaction could cause difficulty breathing. Offer a tiny piece the first time and watch your cat for several hours. If you see signs of an allergic reaction, stop feeding shrimp, and call your vet. Trouble breathing is an emergency, as described in our emergency warning signs guide.
Cats with special health needs
Cats with kidney disease often need to limit phosphorus, and shrimp contains a noticeable amount. Cats with heart disease may need low-sodium diets, and cats with pancreatitis need low-fat foods. If your cat has a medical condition, ask your vet before adding any new treats.
Quick reference
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Safe form | Peeled, deveined, plain, fully cooked |
| Rough calories | About 1 per gram of cooked shrimp, so a small shrimp is only a few calories |
| Sensible treat size | One or two small shrimp |
| Frequency | Occasional |
| Avoid | Shells, tails, raw, breaded, seasoned or buttered shrimp |
Storage and prep tips
Buy shrimp that is labeled as having no added phosphates or preservatives when you can, and cook it fresh. Refrigerate cooked shrimp promptly and discard it after a day or two. Never share restaurant shrimp, which usually contains butter, garlic, salt and sauces.
Signs your cat did not tolerate it
Vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, gagging or swelling around the face after eating shrimp may mean an allergy or a piece of shell stuck in the mouth or throat. If your cat has trouble breathing or the face swells, treat it as an emergency and go to a clinic at once.
Why shrimp should stay a small treat
Shrimp is dense in flavor and can encourage begging. Giving it often teaches a cat to hold out for treats, and the extra calories add up quickly in a small cat. Offer it as a reward during a training session or a special occasion, and keep the rest of the diet consistent, which protects both your cat's weight and its appetite for regular meals. If your cat needs to lose weight, choose very low-calorie rewards instead, such as a few pieces of the cat's own kibble.
Variety and other seafood
Plain cooked salmon and tuna are other seafood options in small amounts, each with its own considerations. Do not rely on seafood as a regular treat, because cats can become fixated on strong flavors and refuse their normal food.
You can look up other foods using our free cat food and plant safety checker. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat shrimp shells?
No. Shells and tails are tough and can cause choking or a blockage in the digestive tract, so peel shrimp completely.
Can cats eat fried or breaded shrimp?
No. The batter and oil add fat, salt and sometimes onion or garlic seasoning, which are not good for cats.
How many shrimp can a cat eat?
One or two small cooked shrimp as an occasional treat is plenty for most cats.
Are shrimp good for cats with kidney disease?
Shrimp contains phosphorus, which many cats with kidney disease need to limit. Ask your vet before offering it.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- WSAVA Global Nutrition GuidelinesHow to judge a pet food and the company that makes it.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.