Is Tuna Toxic to Pets?
Yes — tuna is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — tuna is mildly 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
- Mercury (with frequent feeding)
- Toxic parts
- Canned tuna fed often
- Also known as
- canned tuna
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
Tuna is only mildly toxic to cats, so poisoning symptoms are not expected. Eating a large amount of any plant or unfamiliar food can still cause mild vomiting or diarrhea; call your vet if your cat seems unwell.
Dogs (mildly toxic)
Tuna is only mildly toxic to dogs, so poisoning symptoms are not expected. Eating a large amount of any plant or unfamiliar food can still cause mild vomiting or diarrhea; call your vet if your dog seems unwell.
What to do
If your cat ate tuna
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate tuna
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
An occasional bite of plain tuna is fine, but regular feeding can lead to mercury buildup and an unbalanced diet, especially for cats.
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Frequently asked questions
Is tuna toxic to cats?
Yes — tuna is mildly toxic to cats.
Is tuna toxic to dogs?
Yes — tuna is mildly toxic to dogs.
Which parts of tuna are toxic?
Canned tuna fed often.
What makes tuna toxic?
Mercury (with frequent feeding).