As soon as a can of tuna fish is opened, it is common for all kitties of the house to speed to the kitchen. Most beg and plead for just a bite of tuna fish. Many people like to add canned tuna to their cats’ regular diet. Although kitties are crazy about it, is it really a good idea to feed your cat canned tuna fish?
Tuna is high in calories
An indoor cat needs fewer calories than an outdoor cat that is constantly running or climbing. The average body weight of an indoor cat may be around 11 lbs, and their daily caloric need is really less than 300 calories. Unfortunately, a couple of spoonfuls of canned tuna fish is about 100 calories, taking up a little more than a third of their daily need. Too many calories consumed for a cat that is inside all day and does not expend much energy – or just likes to lay around catching zzz’s in the front window means they are more susceptible to obesity. Obesity in cats can lead to a long list of problems such as early arthritis, diabetes, and a poor coat from too much weight not allowing a cat to be able to groom themselves properly. If you insist on allowing your cat the tasty treat of a spoonful of tuna, decrease the amount of kibble they are receiving for the day. You can also talk with your veterinarian about specific rations. 
Tuna is high in mercury
Remember hearing about mercury poisoning? It is still a thing! Tuna, especially Albacore tuna, contains high levels of mercury. It’s rare in cats, but it is a thing! Feeding your cat too much tuna can put your kitty in danger of mercury poisoning. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include unsteadiness and loss of coordination. If you see your cat experiencing this and they love eating tuna, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Can cause a stomach ache
It is not rare for cats to have food allergies, and fish can often be something which they can have an allergy towards. A cat that has food allergies may have an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, or gas after consuming tuna. Similar to when a lactose-intolerant individual consumes a dairy product. (Keep in mind that your feline friend is likely lactose intolerant, too.)
Enabling a picky eater
Giving a cat that is a picky eater exactly what they want constantly is enabling them – similar to giving a toddler everything that they want. Feeding a kitty tuna constantly will make them shy away from their cat food, which contains all the nutrients their body needs. Sometimes, we must show some tough love and not give in to that Puss In Boots face! 
In moderation, tuna isn’t bad for your cat. If your kitty is requiring daily medication, you can hide it in tuna to help it go down. However, daily tuna in every meal isn’t the best for your cat’s overall health. If you want to feed your cat a tuna flavored food, plenty of brands of cat food have the tuna flavor but also contain the nutrients your cat needs.
