Cats certainly like their share of food, particularly if their owner is enjoying it. With just one of their famous sly looks, you’ll know if they’re hankering after your meal or not.
But what if you did give it to them? Is it safe? If you’ve been having clams, for example, can you give the little feline some?
Well, we’ve got the info for you! Below, you’ll be able to find out whether cats can have clams in any capacity at all, as well as the benefits that they may get from it if you do. Read on!
Can Cats Eat Clams?
So, the answer you’ve been wanting: yes. However, it’s a yes with a big asterisk on it, because though it is possible to feed them some, you really need to be careful about how you do it – as well as how much you give them.
Cats are notorious for loving seafood, such as tuna or salmon, so it makes sense that something like clams might be a good fit for them.
Seafood gives a whole bunch of health benefits to your feline friend, such as protein, minerals and vitamins.
However, you need to remember that it should always be cooked – do not give your cat any raw seafood. Also, the cooked seafood should only be served in small, occasional amounts.
The same will go for clams, which should not be served regularly and should be prepared and given in special ways – which you’ll find out below.
The Benefits Of Feeding Cats Clams
As we’ve suggested, cats should have a good amount of protein. This is something that comes from all seafood, so clams are a great source of it.
It is said that cats will need at least 2 grams of protein per pound of body weight in the number of calories they’re taking in each day.
Obviously, to get exactly the right amount, you’re going to need to measure your cat as well as the amount of food that they eat.
Clams are also high in taurine, which is a crucial amino acid for the cat’s diet. If your pet doesn’t get enough taurine, it will become deficient and could experience health problems – for example, heart failure, eye issues, and tooth decay.
So, they’d better get their taurine! However, you should consult your vet first as to whether clams are an appropriate source of taurine for your cat.
On top of that, clams have lots of minerals and vitamins in them. They are very high in antioxidants, which can help treat chronic conditions that cats can suffer.
However, clams are quite low in calories, so you really shouldn’t rely on them as food. Not that you should be regularly feeding them clams anyway!
But if you do give them some, you must make sure that you are giving them high-calorie foods on the side.
Preparing And Giving Your Cat Clams
Now that we’ve explained the benefits of clams and the health and nutrients that they can give to your cat, it’s time to look at the various ways you can put them into your cat’s diet – in moderation, of course.
One way to start giving your cat clams is by sharing the clam juice with them. If you put it where you would normally put your cat’s water, like in their bowl, then they should start lapping up small traces of clam (and its benefits) in a safe and easy manner.
Clam juice is sometimes recommended if you’re dealing with an older cat who is suffering from kidney disease, in part because it helps to improve their liquid drinking.
You can also dress whatever other meal you’re serving your cat in clam juice, adding extra nutrients to it.
Speaking of mixing foods, that’s definitely the way to go with clams. Since clams are low in calories, and you should only be giving your cat small amounts, it’s a good idea to add the clams to the main meal that your cat is having.
For example, if you’ve given them a tin of cat food, put some clams on the side every now and then. Think of it as like a side dish you’d have in a restaurant!
Always, always make sure that the clams are cooked through. Raw fish can be hazardous for them, poisoning them or causing them to vomit.
When you cook it, however, make sure that you’re cooking it flat – with nothing added to it. Cats are delicate and you need to be careful about what you’re going to be giving them.
Which Clams Shouldn’t Your Cat Have?
It’s best to be cooking fresh clams yourself if they’re going to your cat. You may be tempted to give them some canned clams, but you should not.
Canned clams have sodium in them, which is not healthy for cats – and could be fatal. So, never use canned clams.
Similarly, don’t give your cat clam chowder. This is because clam chowder often includes things like garlic and onion, as well as milk and cream.
None of these are safe for your cat. After all, cats are lactose intolerant! So steer clear of clam chowder.
Getting The Balance
So, using only the fresh and cooked clams that are safe for your cat, you need to make sure that you get the correct balance. After all, you want to give them a healthy diet!
Well, since clam is low in calories, you need to use it alongside other MAIN meals that have the right amount. Track down a high-quality diet, or consult a vet, to find the right balance.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Clams can be good for your cat, but you must make sure that you only give them small amounts – and only the right types.