Dried herring can make a nutritious treat for cats in moderation. Herring is a good source of protein and healthy fats. However, there are some things to consider before feeding dried herring to cats. This article will explore the potential benefits and risks of dried herring for cats and provide feeding guidelines.
Nutritional benefits of herring for cats
Herring is a fatty fish that is a good source of important nutrients for cats, including:
- Protein – Herring is high in protein, providing amino acids that cats need.
- Omega-3 fatty acids – Herring is rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s like EPA and DHA.
- Vitamin D – Herring contains vitamin D, which supports bone health.
- Selenium – Herring provides selenium, an antioxidant that supports thyroid and immune function.
The table below shows the nutritional breakdown of dried herring:
| Nutrient | Per 1 oz dried herring |
|---|---|
| Calories | 129 |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Omega-3s | 1 g |
| Vitamin D | 61 IU |
| Selenium | 47 mcg |
So in moderation, dried herring can provide cats with high-quality protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins and minerals.
Potential risks of herring for cats
While herring offers nutritional benefits, there are also some potential risks to be aware of:
- Allergies – Some cats may be allergic or intolerant to fish.
- High purine content – Herring contains purines that can exacerbate some urinary conditions in predisposed cats.
- Mercury exposure – Fish like herring can contain traces of mercury, which builds up over time.
- High sodium – Dried fish is very high in sodium, which is unhealthy in excess.
- GI upset – Too much fatty fish at once can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
So herring should only be fed occasionally in limited amounts. Consult your vet if your cat has any underlying health conditions.
Feeding guidelines for dried herring treats
When feeding dried herring to cats, follow these tips:
- Start with tiny amounts like a pinch or teaspoon to test your cat’s tolerance.
- Feed only 1-2 times a week as an occasional treat.
- Avoid feeding fish more than twice a week to limit mercury exposure.
- Hydrate your cat to dilute the sodium from dried fish.
- Look for low-sodium dried fish options when possible.
- Cut back if you notice any diarrhea, vomiting, or allergic reaction.
Cats typically do fine with up to 1 ounce of dried herring per 5 pounds of body weight per week. But you should start slowly and monitor your cat.
Is dried or raw herring better?
Both dried and raw herring have pros and cons for cats:
Benefits of dried herring
- Lower risk of bacterial contamination
- Longer shelf life
- Easier to portion and serve
- Crunchier texture can aid dental health
Benefits of raw herring
- Higher moisture content is better for cats’ hydration
- More natural state
- Better preservation of nutrients like omega-3s
- Contains natural enzymes
So there are good reasons to choose either dried or raw herring for your cat. The key is choosing a high-quality product and feeding in moderation.
Best ways to add herring to a cat’s diet
Here are some recommended ways to incorporate dried herring into your cat’s routine:
As a treat
Break dried herring into bite-sized pieces. Offer a few small pinches or teaspoons as a tasty treat 1-2 times per week. Make sure treats make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories.
In a cat food topper
Use tiny amounts of crumbled dried herring as a topper to sprinkle over your cat’s meals. This adds extra flavor and nutrition. Aim for about 1 teaspoon per meal 1-2 times a week.
In homemade cat food
When making your own cat food, add a small amount of rehydrated dried herring for extra protein and healthy fats. Blend it into food processor cat food recipes.
As training rewards
Use tiny bits of dried herring as a positive reinforcement reward when training cats. The smell is irresistible to most cats.
In treat balls or puzzles
Add dried herring pieces into food puzzle toys or balls. This stimulates cats’ instincts to “hunt” for their food.
Conclusion
Dried herring can be a healthy supplemental snack for cats in moderation. It provides protein, omega-3s, and key nutrients. Feed only small amounts occasionally to minimize risks. Use dried herring as a treat, topper, or mix-in to your cat’s regular diet. Both dried and raw herring offer benefits. When fed responsibly, herring gives cats a nutritious fishy flavor they are sure to love. Monitor your individual cat’s reaction when first introducing dried herring.