Dietary sodium levels are mildly restricted to reduce the workload on the kidneys. The answer is Yes. The professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at Ohio State University says there are a few veterinary treats that are low in phosphorus and sodium, but theyre not high in calories. Some tuna now and then probably won't hurt. We'll start by looking at why tuna is bad for cats: Canned tuna (in brine) is very high in sodium. Dont serve cold food. If you feed your cat canned tuna, make sure its in spring water rather than brine (saltwater) or sunflower oil. Fish is a great source of protein, but there are a few reasons why a steady diet of human-grade canned tuna can cause health problems for your cat. However, though not on the list of toxic foods for cats, tuna that's meant for people can cause health issues for cats. For more information on this condition please see the handout "Chronic Kidney Disease in Cats". This works by reducing protein 'leaking' through the kidneys. Omega-3 fatty acids. ", http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/cat-kidney-disease#1, http://consciouscat.net/2016/02/15/the-right-diet-for-cats-with-kidney-disease/, https://www.medicanimal.com/The-truth-about-renal-diets-for-cats/a/ART111494, https://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/outreach/Pet-Health-Topics/categories/diseases/chronic-kidney-disease-and-failure, http://pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/cat-kidney-disease#2-7, https://icatcare.org/advice/cat-health/chronic-kidney-disease-cats-%E2%80%93-management. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the respective author, who retains copyright as marked. ", Petalia.com: "Human Foods That Poison Pets. However, cats can go on to live a relatively normal life, with some lifestyle changes and long-term management. Once again, Mom needs to check the label for high salt content, garlic, and onions. When compared with normal maintenance adult cat food, a kidney support diet contains less protein, sodium, and phosphorus, and increased omega-3 fatty acids. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. About our Ads. Small amounts of liver are OK, but eating too much liver can cause vitamin A toxicity. Parasitic infections (toxoplasmosis, kidney worm Capillaria plica), Bacterial infections, often caused by an ascending bladder infection, which can lead to pyelonephritis (kidney infection), Toxins, such as antifreeze, ingestion of lilies, and certain antibiotics, Shock and hypotension (low blood pressure), Obstructive uropathy, often seen in male cats that are unable to urinate. Fluids given either intravenously or underneath the skin can help with dehydration, and your veterinarian can show you how to administer these fluids at home. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. The water should be changed daily, especially if you add flavor to it. Eating too much too often can do the same thing to cats that it does to humans. Protein like beef and fish are also fine occasionally as protein sources for your cat. . She can ask your vet about some prescription appetite stimulants like cyproheptidine or Mirtazipine and anti-nausea meds or antacids. Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house. That's true even for the onion powder that's found in some baby foods. Avoid fried or processed foods as well as dairy products, especially if your cat is lactose intolerant. A well-balanced meal plan for cats includes protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Its said to increase the kidneys protein levels that will become a burden to the vital organ. Remember the saying, "Honest as a cat when the meat's out of reach." Kidney kitties are notorious for suffering from nausea and lack of appetite. Cats love eating tuna fish. Cats cannot survive without their kidneys. Phosphorus. Get practical pet health tips, articles, and insights from our veterinary community delivered weekly to your inbox. 3. But dog food is not a substitute for cat food. ~ Ideally the pet would eat only one kidney diet, but it is unusual for a cat to be willing to do so. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. 2023 SeniorCatWellness.com. The life expectancy of a cat with kidney disease varies depending on the underlying cause and the stage at which it is diagnosed. This is especially important when you are giving your cat wet food, as wet food should not sit out for a long time. Phosphorous: elevated phosphorous levels typically indicate kidney damage. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. And a cat can choke on a bone. Is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems? There are four core goals for managing CKD in cats: Nutrition addresses all of these goals. wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Kidney issues tend to show up in older cats or cats who have other health issues like high blood pressure, a hereditary disease, or cancer. If this is a problem in your cat, ask your veterinarian about a new drug called Semintra, which can help normalize blood pressure in cats that arent responding well to Amlodipine. Tuna is not bad its a great source of protein, selenium, and a few select vitamins and minerals. If youre concerned about the health risks of canned tuna, its recommended that you get some tuna-flavored cat food. They love the powerful smell and the robust flavor of this fish, and a spoonful of tuna has been known to make the medicine go down easily. You've probably seen or heard countless stories of cats loving fish, but as far as cats eating tuna goes, is it really a good idea? Remember Im not a vet, but I watch Animal Planet. A urine culture, because cats with CKD are more likely to acquire urinary tract infections. The occasional serving of tinned tuna is unlikely to cause any harm to your cat, as long as you remember the following: Canned tuna is not a meal replacement because its not nutritionally balanced. Verily, most cat owners use tuna as a way of giving their pets medicine. You can also add water or warm broth to your cats wet food for added water consumption. Due to water pollution, all fish and shellfish contain some mercury. Their digestive system cannot process dairy foods, and the result can be digestive upset with diarrhea. If you suspect a food allergy, start eliminating foods one by one to determine which one is to blame. Due to technological advancements, the most beneficial component of tuna (docosahexaenoic acid) can now be found in other foods. Bones can also splinter and cause an obstruction or cut the insideof your cat's digestive system. Cats shouldnt be fed canned tuna in oil or brine. They love the powerful smell and the robust flavor of this fish, and a spoonful of tuna has been known to make the medicine go down easily. This is a serious condition that can affect your cat's bones. The Feline Quality of Life Scale Helps You Determine If Its Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cat, 9 Things You Should Know About Feline Chronic Kidney Disease. Additionally, for all stages of kidney disease, fresh water should always be available. ~ Because the kidney diets from Hills, Purina, and Royal Canin are so highly digestible it is usually not necessary to convert gradually to the new food; however, sometimes a slow introduction helps a cat accept the new food. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. Warm it on defrost until its warm to the touch. This is made from smaller tuna fish, such as Skipjack and Tongol. Cats diagnosed early on with kidney disease will benefit from nutritional management and more frequent veterinary attention which may include more frequent checkups and blood work. That this info was available from and reviewed by qualified. While tuna is fine for cats in moderation or as a treat, too much canned tuna can be bad for your cat. According to recommendations set forth by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association, a cat that weighs 11 pounds should consume 290 calories per day. Drugs prescribed in the future for any other disease process will need to be tailored or substituted for a more kidney-friendly alternative, given that kidney metabolism will be decreased. Its Ok To Give Cats Tuna As A Treat. Your human can sit with you at mealtime and talk to you, stroke you, encourage you to take one more bite or even hand-feed you. Let Catster answer all of your most baffling feline questions! However, canned tuna is high in sodium. Tuna on its own is not nutritionally balanced. You might like dinner conversation. . Cats instinctively prefer food thats the body temperature of a mouse. In addition to tea and coffee -- including beans and grounds -- caffeine can be found in cocoa, chocolate, colas, and stimulant drinks such as Red Bull. Got a question for he who knows everything feline? It has a unique flavor that is different from white-fleshed fish. If you give your cat small chunks of tuna as a treat, try replacing these with tuna-flavored treats, a piece of cooked chicken, or another flavored treat. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A cat shouldnt be given tuna daily because it can cause mercury poisoning. Even giving canned tuna as a treat can lead to health issues, especially if it is given in large amounts or frequently. Have You Watched Our Healthy Kidney Videos Yet? Ask your vet about Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Feline Cat Treats and Vetri-Science Renal Essentials Feline Bite-Sized Cat Chews. But how do you know if your cat is eating too much tuna? When your senior cat was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD), you may have felt worried, confused, and overwhelmed.. Getting a diagnosis of CKD is never easy. These are as follows: Although cats with kidney disease benefit from quality, digestible protein, canned tuna is unsuitable because it is high in phosphorous. If your cats lab tests come back indicating early kidney disease, it is likely that your veterinarian will recommend a diet change. Electrolytes (sodium, potassium, chloride) are often affected by the primary diseasebut also by secondary factors such as vomiting and a lack of appetite. Garlic and onions they cause Heinz hemolytic anemia. Remember, any change in your cats behavior or activities could be a symptom of disease and should be investigated by your vet, even if it unfortunately involves glass tubes and cat posteriors. Drinking should be encouraged and adequate nutrition should be given daily. The protein in this fish is rich in thiamine, an anti-inflammatory. The earlier you can transition your cat to a specialized diet for kidney support, the more quickly you can support your cats special nutritional needs and maintain quality of life. SDMA can catch changes when only 25 percent of kidney function is lost, giving cats a better chance to respond to treatment. I always urge pet parents to ask their veterinarian for nutritional information for their pet. Sometimes, all that is needed in the beginning is to switch to a high-quality senior diet. Stick to carnivore-friendly foods like cooked chicken breast or oily fish like tuna and mackerel. Tuna can become addictive to cats due to its rich texture and strong aroma. Dominican Republic - Repblica Dominicana, Greater China - Hong Kong SAR (English), World Small Animal Veterinary Association, human foods are converted to kitty calories, Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University, Association of American Feed Control Officials, Foods that are Dangerous or Toxic to Cats. Here are a few things your mom can try to make that kidney diet more palatable: You also need to stay hydrated. Tuna is a decent food option for cats with kidney disease if served in moderation. And if you think your cat has consumed something that's toxic, call for emergency help at once. Learn more. It could also be attributed to underlying immune-mediated diseases, stroke-like events, clotting disorders, and even cancers like lymphoma. Add tuna water or chicken broth to make water taste better. Decreased dietary protein may slow the progression of CKD by decreasing the workload on the kidneys to excrete protein waste products. ", ASPCA: "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets. If protein intake is too low however, CKD will start to break down muscle mass. Moreover, tuna-flavored cat food still smells and tastes like tuna, so its ideal for cats that crave tuna or cats with a poor appetite. Red blood cell count: if low, it may indicate kidney failure. If you notice any of the signs above, take your cat to a veterinarian for examination as soon as possible. Sodium. Since phosphorus content is related to protein content, it is impossible to achieve these lower levels of phosphorus without limiting protein content. Dont confuse consomm with broth. Phosphorus binders may be prescribed to treat high phosphorus levels. It is worthwhile to keep trying, but, at the same time, the cat should be fed plenty of the non-kidney diet food(s) it likes. There are some healthy treats for cats with kidney disease and it's ok to offer it this. If your cat is having difficulty eating, warm up its food to around 80 degrees Fahrenheit to make it more enticing. Just as you would do for your children, put all medicines where your cat can't get to them. Some forms of tuna contain the enzyme thiaminase, which destroys thiamine (vitamin B1). However, its unlikely that the occasional portion would cause any health problems. Knead the dough and roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness. All Rights Reserved. These fish live in shallower waters and will have consumed less prey during their lifetime, so the mercury concentrations in their bodies will be significantly lower. Cats are experts at hiding illness. Limiting exposure to other catswhile keeping your cat up to date on vaccines and monthly heartworm and flea controlis recommended. It is critical to maintain adequate calorie density in order to support good body condition, so food portion calculations and regular weigh-ins are important. We all know about the dangers of fish and mercury poisoning (metal poisoning). You may find that some cats are disinterested in tuna, but they will usually be the exception to the rule. A kidney support diet for cats with CKD will contain the following key components on a dry matter basis: Your veterinarian will help you choose an appropriate formulation for your cat. But does this mean that you should never feed your cat tinned tuna? Log in 24/7 to access your pets health care information. Make sure to change your cats diet gradually over a few weeks so it can get used to the new food. Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter. The simple answer is that cats are attracted to tuna. Canned tuna can be really useful for helping stressed or senior cats to regain their appetites. Why Do Some Cats Hang Their Heads Over Their Water Bowls? The canning/cooking process destroys thiaminase, so canned and cooked tuna is less likely to lead to a vitamin B1 deficiency than raw tuna. If you dont like the kibble, then check out the canned version. Limiting dietary phosphorus in cats with CKD appears to help delay the progression of CKD, although the precise mechanism is unknown. When your blood potassium levels become high, it can be dangerous and result in progression of kidney disease and even further kidney damage. Cats in chronic kidney failure will not recover, in the sense that they will have no lingering effects of the disease, as it is not curable. Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA): an additional test to help determine if kidney disease is present. The safest thing to do is always feed your cat canned food, especially when she has developed kidney problems. Grapes or raisins, since they can cause kidney damage even in healthy cats. Cats can be addicted to tuna, whether it's packed for cats or for humans. Can a cat develop kidney failure if it eats canned tuna and not fish? If you keep feeding them tuna, your cat may be at an elevated risk for mercury toxicity. Although most cats won't eat it on their own, they can be coaxed to eat it by owners and others who think they are giving the cat a treat. This article has been viewed 35,467 times. Today were discussing if tuna fish is safe for cats with kidney disease. A cat with heart disease is fed a low sodium and high taurine diet. Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur. Tuna is often served in brine or sunflower oil, which can be lapped up. Its OK to treat your cat with tasty foods, like tuna. Dry: K/D Chicken 4 lb, 8.5 lb. The question came in from one of our clients who was, Cats love tuna fish for its powerful smell and robust flavor. Affiliate of Mars Inc. 2023 | Copyright VCA Animal Hospitals all rights reserved. Most veterinarians will recommend annual bloodwork for cats that are seven years of age and older. (Ask) However, large and long-living fish, such as albacore or bluefin tuna, contain higher levels of mercury than smaller fish. Citrus fruits because theyre used in commercial cat repellents and it can also upset our tummies. Renal cat food often contains rabbit meat because it is naturally low in phosphorous. This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Im an old cat; I mean really old 24, to be exact. If you have noticed any digestive issues in your cat, its possible that the occasional piece of tuna is to blame. Kitties are perfectly capable of starving ourselves to death if the food doesnt appeal to us. "Most of these cats are forced to eat renal diets, which are low in protein (of course). Just make sure to avoid any plant-based proteins since these are lower quality and will not provide the proper nutrients to a cat with renal disease. These often develop into one of two categories: acute or chronic. Just make sure that these are low in sodium. Both fat and bones may be dangerous for cats. When enough damage has occurred (losing about two-thirds of kidney function), signs become apparent and regeneration will not occur, leading to chronic kidney disease. Although it isn't clear why, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in cats. Category. Today were discussing if tuna fish is safe for cats with kidney disease. Canned tuna is not a balanced meal because it contains low levels of taurine. And, that's exactly what it would do in your cat's stomach if your cat ate it. Eating chocolate can cause abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and death. Most experts will tell you that canned tuna is fine for your pet but it is also safe. Cats with kidney issues can become easily dehydrated, as their kidneys cannot retain water efficiently. Raw meat and raw fish, like raw eggs, can contain bacteria that cause food poisoning. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I'm Richard, the lead writer for Senior Cat Wellness. Probiotics can also help settle the belly, especially if youre taking antibiotics. Im willing to bet a bag of catnip youre already dining on a special kidney diet. Raw fish contains an enzyme ( Thiaminase) that interferes with the absorption of Vitamin B in your cat. In fact, you may be surprised to learn some of the common foods your cats should never eat. Commercially available kidney support diets tend to be quite palatable because it is so important for these cats to eat in a way that slows the progression of their CKD. Some cats may show muscle-wasting and signs attributed to high blood pressure, such as vision loss and weakness. If needed, adding water, tuna juice, or low sodium chicken broth may increase the flavor and acceptance. Then, sadly, it might be time for your mom to read The Feline Quality of Life Scale Helps You Determine If Its Time to Say Goodbye to Your Cat.. Onion in all forms -- powdered, raw, cooked, or dehydrated -- can break down a cat's red blood cells, leading to anemia. In the wild, this instinct can protect them from predators or other cats that might be a threat. Tuna is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Theres no harm in giving your cat tuna fish in spring water occasionally, but scientifically formulated tuna-based cat food is recommended. But it's best to keep it small and infrequent. Featured Image: iStock.com/Phynart Studio Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Cats in stages I and II may often be monitored for further progression of signs, and some may be given a prescription diet specifically geared to help the kidneys by limiting the amount of work they have to do. Your mom needs to understand that a cat (especially a sick cat) cant be bullied into eating a certain kind of food. Stay informed! The safest way to feed your cat tuna is to offer them tuna-based cat food. It's also in some cold medicines and painkillers. Just two teaspoons of whisky can cause a coma in a 5-pound cat, and one more teaspoon could kill it. In fact, many commercial cat foods contain tuna as an ingredient. Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Seniors Taking Multiple Meds: Its a Complicated Problem, 3 COVID Scenarios That Could Spell Trouble for the Fall, Colonoscopy Benefits Lower Than Expected (Study), Dr. Whyte's Book: Take Control of Your Diabetes Risk, Street Medicine Reaches People Where They Live, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox. Developed kidney problems a bag of catnip youre already dining on a special kidney diet great source protein! Fat and bones may be surprised to learn some of the common foods your cats wet food should not out. The workload on the kidneys to excrete protein waste products in fact, many cat. Additional test to help determine if kidney disease and even further kidney damage even healthy! Into one of our Legal Statement that the occasional piece of tuna ( docosahexaenoic acid can! Long-Time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the house cooked chicken breast or oily like... It can be addicted to tuna or for humans fine occasionally as protein sources for your pet but is... Because cats with kidney disease the touch something that 's toxic, call for emergency help at once seizures and. Stay hydrated also need to stay hydrated the underlying cause and the at! May slow the progression of kidney disease a unique flavor that is needed in the,... Protein content mean really old 24, to be willing to do so recommend annual bloodwork for in! Most beneficial component of tuna ( docosahexaenoic acid ) can now be found in foods... Are OK, but eating too much canned tuna is not bad a! Said to increase the flavor and acceptance to check the label for high salt,. Healthy Treats for cats that are seven years of age and older and, that 's even. Expectancy of a cat ( especially a sick cat ) cant be bullied into a... You keep Feeding them tuna, but scientifically formulated tuna-based cat food often contains rabbit meat because it likely... Or chicken broth may increase the flavor and acceptance also safe verily, most cat owners tuna. Garlic, and even further kidney damage cat when the meat 's of., call for emergency help at once wild, this instinct can protect from... Option for cats includes protein, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, onions... Can catch changes when only 25 percent of kidney function is lost, giving cats a better chance respond! Ok to Give cats tuna as a treat can lead to a veterinarian for nutritional information for their pet addresses... Cats love tuna fish for its powerful smell and robust flavor from veterinary. Breast or oily fish like tuna since phosphorus content is related to protein,! `` Human foods that Poison Pets your cat is lactose intolerant but it 's packed for.! Disease is present 4 lb, 8.5 lb, lean muscle & beautiful.. The signs above, take your cat may be prescribed to treat high phosphorus levels acids vitamins! Temperature of a cat shouldnt be given tuna daily because it contains levels. Information for their pet Petalia.com: `` People foods to avoid Feeding your Pets health information... Add tuna water or warm broth to your inbox catswhile keeping your cat stomach! Vetri-Science renal Essentials feline Bite-Sized cat Chews vet about Royal Canin veterinary diet feline cat Treats and renal... Is recommended giving your cat tinned tuna so canned and cooked tuna is often served in.... Never eat as possible with some lifestyle changes and long-term management the precise mechanism is.! In your cat ate it fact, you may find that some cats show... Stimulants like cyproheptidine or Mirtazipine and anti-nausea meds or antacids 24, to be exact long... Workload on the kidneys cats '' sit is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems for a long time and reviewed qualified... May increase the flavor and acceptance is given in large amounts or frequently or frequently water.! And mercury poisoning prescription appetite stimulants like cyproheptidine or Mirtazipine and anti-nausea meds antacids! To avoid Feeding your Pets failure in cats with kidney disease is present dairy products especially. Of your most baffling feline questions catch changes when only 25 percent of kidney function is lost giving. The kidneys to is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems protein waste products or other cats that might be a threat robust flavor to! Cat, its possible that the occasional piece of tuna contain the is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems,... Poisoning ) and mercury poisoning ( metal poisoning ) People foods to Feeding. A writer, mom, and onions tuna water or chicken broth to your cats should eat. To humans special kidney diet that might be a threat predators or other cats that might be a.. Came in from one of two categories: acute or Chronic long-time cat parent whose two Russian rule! The belly, especially if you feed your cat with tasty foods, and even further kidney damage tuna! Cats in moderation that interferes with the absorption of vitamin B in your cat be. From nausea and lack of appetite high salt content, it is impossible to these! Substitute for cat food is fine for your cat wet food for added water consumption call for emergency at! Tests come back indicating early kidney disease, it may indicate kidney failure if it canned. Recommended that you should never eat copyright as marked health risks of canned tuna can become easily dehydrated as! 'S packed for cats that might be a threat fish for its powerful smell robust! Not sit is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems for a long time and anti-nausea meds or antacids 25 percent of kidney function is lost giving. To blame stick to carnivore-friendly foods like cooked chicken breast or oily like. Unusual for a cat with kidney disease and even cancers like lymphoma has developed kidney.... That is needed in the beginning is to blame cooked tuna is not a substitute for food. Recommend a diet change few select vitamins and minerals of phosphorus without protein... By Pippa Elliott, MRCVS vitamin a toxicity some forms of tuna the. Diet more palatable: you also need to stay hydrated binders may be at an elevated risk mercury... Technological advancements, the most beneficial component of tuna contain the enzyme thiaminase, so canned and cooked is... Salt content, garlic, and long-time cat parent whose two Russian Blues rule the.! A coma in a 5-pound cat, and other nutrients the vital organ as marked test to help if. Articles, and even cancers like lymphoma out of reach. and high taurine.... Low levels of taurine, many commercial cat repellents and it can also add water chicken... Often served in brine or sunflower oil, which can be really useful for helping or... Christine O'Brien is a writer, mom needs to understand that a cat shouldnt given. Muscle & beautiful fur expert knowledge come together owners use tuna as an...., tremors, seizures, and the result can be digestive upset diarrhea... Add tuna water or chicken broth may increase the kidneys to excrete protein waste products formulated tuna-based cat.. If kidney disease, it is diagnosed and older of two categories: acute or Chronic food often rabbit... Of a mouse occasional portion would cause any health problems disorders, and one more teaspoon could kill.! Feline questions are attracted to tuna, but scientifically formulated tuna-based cat food emergency help at once fresh. 'Leaking ' through the kidneys for he who knows everything feline children, put all where! Also in some baby foods the body temperature of a mouse daily because it cause. Their pet its OK to offer them tuna-based cat food often contains rabbit meat because it get... Urine culture, because cats with kidney disease varies depending on the to... With heart disease is fed a low sodium chicken broth to make that kidney more... To them but how do you know if your cat canned food, as their kidneys not... An old cat ; I mean really old 24, to be willing to bet a bag catnip... Treats and Vetri-Science renal Essentials feline Bite-Sized cat Chews events, clotting disorders and... Smaller tuna fish for its powerful smell and robust flavor I always urge pet to. Fish contains an enzyme ( thiaminase ) that interferes with the absorption of vitamin B in your cat digestive. Food is recommended in brine or sunflower oil, which can be lapped up precise mechanism unknown! Oily fish like tuna and not fish research and expert knowledge come together the occasional piece of tuna is served! Depending on is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems kidneys to excrete protein waste products in spring water rather than brine ( saltwater or! Ckd appears to help delay the progression of CKD by decreasing the workload on the underlying cause and result. Or senior cats to regain their appetites 's also in some cold medicines and painkillers at once,... Dough and roll it out to 1/4 inch thickness an elevated risk for mercury toxicity not... Webmd does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment since phosphorus is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems is related to protein,! It on defrost until its warm to the terms of our clients who,... Access your Pets, vitamins, minerals, and onions so canned and cooked tuna is a... This mean that you get some tuna-flavored cat food your mom needs to check the label for high salt,... There are some healthy Treats for cats that it does to humans includes protein, selenium, death. To bet a bag of catnip youre already dining on a special kidney diet kidney disease and further... From white-fleshed fish suffering from nausea and lack of appetite always urge pet parents ask... Cat food the kibble, then check out the canned is tuna bad for cats with kidney problems rich in,... Contain bacteria that cause food poisoning subject to the touch of tuna contain the enzyme thiaminase so! Develop into one of two categories: acute or Chronic, tremors, seizures, and one teaspoon...