🐾 PawSafe Check

Are Sardines Toxic to Pets?

No — sardines are non-toxic to cats. No — sardines are non-toxic to dogs.

CatsNon-toxicAre sardines toxic to cats? →DogsNon-toxicAre sardines toxic to dogs? →

PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.

Toxic compound
None in plain sardines
Toxic parts
Salted or sauced varieties

Symptoms

Cats (non-toxic)

  • Usually no signs when fed plain and in small amounts
  • Mild stomach upset if too much is eaten

Dogs (non-toxic)

  • Usually no signs when fed plain and in small amounts
  • Mild stomach upset if too much is eaten

What to do

If your cat ate sardines

  • This is generally considered safe for cats.
  • Large amounts of any plant or unfamiliar food can still cause stomach upset.
  • Call your vet if your cat seems unwell.

If your dog ate sardines

  • This is generally considered safe for dogs.
  • Large amounts of any plant or unfamiliar food can still cause stomach upset.
  • Call your vet if your dog seems unwell.

Good to know

Sardines packed in water with no added salt are a good occasional treat. Avoid ones packed in oil with salt or in sauces.

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Frequently asked questions

Are sardines toxic to cats?

No — sardines are non-toxic to cats. Common signs include usually no signs when fed plain and in small amounts, mild stomach upset if too much is eaten.

Are sardines toxic to dogs?

No — sardines are non-toxic to dogs. Common signs include usually no signs when fed plain and in small amounts, mild stomach upset if too much is eaten.

Which parts of sardines are toxic?

Salted or sauced varieties.

What makes sardines toxic?

None in plain sardines.

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