Why limited
Keep Tuna (canned) to small, occasional amounts. Sensitive pets may react to it, and sugar- or fat-heavy foods raise the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.
Occasional small amounts in water (not oil, not seasoned) are okay. Mercury builds up — do not feed regularly, especially to cats.
Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Feed with care), so the notes below hold for either pet.
If it ate some before you noticed, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness or a painful, swollen abdomen over the next 24 hours. A one-off small amount in a healthy adult usually passes with water and rest; repeated exposure, a puppy or kitten, a senior, or a pet with an ongoing illness is a reason to call your vet the same day.
Other foods that need limits
The full A–Z food list groups every food by verdict for each species.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat Tuna (canned)?
CAUTION — limited. Occasional small amounts in water (not oil, not seasoned) are okay. Mercury builds up — do not feed regularly, especially to cats.
How much Tuna (canned) can cats have?
Keep Tuna (canned) to small, occasional pieces and never part of the main meal. It is classed as with care, so pets with a sensitive gut, pancreatitis or diabetes should skip Tuna (canned) entirely.
What reaction should I watch for after cats eats Tuna (canned)?
In the 24 hours after cats eats Tuna (canned), look for vomiting, diarrhoea, gas or a drop in appetite. Occasional small amounts in water (not oil, not seasoned) are okay. Mercury builds up — do not feed regularly, especially to cats.
How often can cats have Tuna (canned)?
Save Tuna (canned) for rare moments rather than building it into a routine; your cat may enjoy it, but that alone does not make it fit to feed often.
What are safer treats than Tuna (canned) for cats?
Pick from the safe list instead — Trout or Mackerel carry none of the risk that Tuna (canned) does, and they work better as an everyday treat.