Hooked on Health: The Heart Benefits of Fish for Cats

TL;DR: Fish -based diets are great for enhancing cat heart health, offering vital nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids which reduce inflammation, support cardiovascular function, and lower blood pressure. However, not all fish are equally beneficial; salmon, cod, and haddock are top choices due to their rich Omega-3 content.

Key Points:

• Omega-3 Benefits: Essential for heart health, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall cardiovascular function.
• Fish Selection: Opt for oily fish like salmon, cod, and haddock which provide high-quality protein and Omega-3s.
• Avoid Raw Fish: Raw fish can be harmful due to bacteria and parasites.
• Balanced Diet: Ensure fish-based cat food is high in protein and meets AAFCO nutritional standards.

Fish isn’t just another item on your cat’s menu. A balanced fish-first diet can truly be a heart health hero for your feline family!

While fish is often touted for its all-round nutritional benefits - boosting coat shine, improving eye health, and supporting brain function - today, we're casting our nets specifically towards its positive impact on heart health.

Join us as we separate fact from fiction to determine if fish can truly make your furry friend’s heart purr with health and vitality.

Is Fish Good for Cats?

First things first, is fish even good for cats? The answer is a resounding yes!

Fish is a powerhouse of essential nutrients that can significantly enhance your cat’s overall health. The benefits of including fish in your cat's diet extend from a silky coat to improved heart function, thanks to a range of vitamins, minerals, and particularly, a group of fats known as Omega-3 fatty acids.

Is Raw Fish Good for Cats?

It’s important to note that when we’re talking about fish for cats we’re not talking about raw fish. Feeding your cat raw fish is risky because of bacteria and parasites that can food poisoning. Similarly, some raw fish contain thiaminase. This enzyme destroys vitamin B1, which can cause serious neurological problems.

Raw fish is not good for cats, but cooked fish like what is used in Boat to Bowl’s kibble is a safe and nutritious option.

How Fish for Cats Benefits Heart Health

Fish offers a sea of beneficial nutrients, including high-quality protein, vitamins D and B2 (riboflavin), and powerful antioxidants like selenium. However, it's the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish that are especially crucial for heart health. Cats cannot create these fatty acids on their own, which is why it’s essential that Omega 3-s are included in their diet.

The two types of Omega-3 fatty acids that play significant roles in heart health are Eicosatetraenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA). These fatty acids are found in oily, cold-water fish like salmon or cod.

Here’s how they benefit your cat’s heart:

Reduce Inflammation

Both EPA and DHA are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is a root cause of many cardiovascular issues in cats. By reducing inflammation, Omega-3s help maintain the heart’s normal function and prevent heart diseases.

Support Cardiovascular Function

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been known to act as an anti-coagulant, which can help reduce the chances of blood clots forming in the cardiovascular system. This is crucial in preventing conditions like thromboembolism, which is a common heart issue in cats.

Lower Blood Pressure

Regular intake of EPA and DHA has been associated with lower blood pressure levels in both humans and animals. For cats, this can mean less stress on the heart and a reduced risk of heart disease.

Improve Heart Rhythm

Omega-3 fatty acids also help in maintaining a regular heart rhythm. According to PetMD, this can potentially lower the risks of atrial fibrillation, which can be fatal. Preventing dangerous arrhythmias is also important to keep cats with any existing heart conditions healthy.

Enhance Overall Heart Health

Beyond specific heart functions, EPA and DHA contribute to the general strength and health of cardiac cells and structures. Heart health goes hand in hand with physical health as well. Since the health benefits of fish also extend to brain, joint, and skin health, they all contributes to cardiovascular health!

What Fish is Good for Cats?

Of course, not all fish for cats is created equal. The best cat food for heart disease is made with high-quality, oily fish like:

• Salmon: Salmon ranks at the top for cat heart health due to its high content of Omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA. This dynamic duo of fatty acids is great for cats during all life stages.
• Cod: Cod is another stellar fish for cats, providing an excellent source of lean protein and a natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids. It's especially beneficial due to its low-fat content, making it ideal for maintaining a healthy weight in cats.
• Haddock: Similar to cod, haddock offers a lean source of protein and is lower in fat than many other types of fish. This helps in managing weight and reducing the burden on your cat's heart.

What About Other Types of Fish for Cats?

With so many fish in the sea it can sometimes feel overwhelming to separate the good from the great. So, what about other options like tuna?

At the end of the day, most experts agree that pet parents should be careful feeding tuna fish in large quantities. While cats might go crazy for this type of fish, it should not be the sole source of a cat’s diet. The experts at Wag! recommend keeping this type of fish as an occasional treat and only using tuna that is formulated for pets without added flavors or too much sodium.

Tips for Choosing Fish for Cats

Ready to make the switch to fish-based cat food to support your cat’s heart health? Always prioritize a balanced diet and kibble that is high in protein. A high-protein diet is essential for their energy levels, muscle maintenance, and overall health. When selecting fish-based cat food:

• Check Protein Content: Make sure that the cat food lists fish as one of (if not THE) first ingredients, indicating that the recipe is rich in high-quality protein.
• Check for Other Proteins: Read the ingredient list and keep an eye out for chicken, chicken fat, or other animal by-products. Many commercial seafood recipes sneak in these ingredients as a way to bump up the protein levels, which can often trigger allergies or ingredient sensitivities, amongst other issues.
• Look for Complete Nutrition: The cat food should be formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles. This ensures that the food provides complete and balanced nutrition.

At Boat to Bowl, the stars of our fish-first cat food are salmon, cod, and haddock. These types of fish for cats are high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids that benefit your furry friend inside and out. Find healthy seafood options for your cat to support a heart-healthy diet. Shop now!