Movies and books often show that cats are willing to do anything to catch a fish and then happily eat it – even bones! And the owners also notice that their pets go crazy from its smell. It is true that not all cats eat it. What is their love or, on the contrary, their dislike connected with? There are several assumptions.

Cats have evolved with humans

Cats began to love fish when they were domesticated in the time of the ancient Egyptians. To attract these animals, people used just such a delicacy. This happened, as scientists say, more than 10,000 years ago. In addition, thanks to co-evolution with humans, cats have learned to understand that they can eat fish caught by their owners, and do not need to actively hunt – this way you can save energy.

Attracted by a pungent odor

Researchers say cats have only 470 taste buds, so their ability to recognize different tastes is limited. But they are excellent at distinguishing odors – their sense of smell is at least 9 times stronger than human! And this explains why cats are attracted to such a treat because it has a strong aroma.

Why do some pets hate fish?

Some cat owners say their pets can’t tolerate such food at all. There is nothing wrong with that: it’s all about the animal’s preferences. It may also be due to the fact that the cat has simply not tried such food before.

In addition, some pets are allergic to fish, so they are reluctant to eat it. This problem manifests itself in other symptoms – diarrhea, wheezing, skin inflammation, vomiting, as well as coughing and sneezing.

What types of fish should cats eat?

Cats can eat any fish, as long as they are not allergic to it. The most recommended species are tuna and salmon, as they are good sources of omega-3. However, they also contain large amounts of mercury.

Cod, flounder and flounder are smaller species with less mercury. They are believed to be safer for animals.

Health benefits of fish nutrients:

• Protein – helps animals stay healthy, strengthens tissues, regulates pH balance and provides energy;
• taurine – an amino acid that controls heart rate, vision, reproductive function and digestion;
• omega-3 fatty acids – keep hair shiny and reduce the risk of diseases such as asthma, arthritis and cancer.

How often should a cat eat fish?

Veterinarians recommend giving fish to cats no more than two to three times a week. This is because although it contains taurine and proteins, which are important nutrients, it also contains thiaminase, which breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1). It is an integral part of the nutritional needs of these animals. If the body is deficient in thiamine, the nervous system becomes more vulnerable. These foods also contain mercury, an excess of which can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and hyperthyroidism.

Based on materials: animalpath.org