Meat & fish
Can dogs eat tuna?
A little. Tuna is not toxic, but it contains more mercury than smaller fish, so keep it occasional.
Why Mercury (builds up over time)
By Maya Hart
If your dog ate some
- A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset.
- Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
How much, how often
A tablespoon of tinned tuna in water, once a week.
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories
Serving it safely
- Choose tuna in spring water, not oil or brine
- Drain well
Dogs and cats, side by side
Dogs In moderation
A little. Tuna is not toxic, but it contains more mercury than smaller fish, so keep it occasional.
How much: A tablespoon of tinned tuna in water, once a week.
Cats In moderation
As a treat only. Cats love tuna, but a diet heavy in it can lead to mercury build-up and a lack of other nutrients.
How much: A teaspoon, occasionally.
Can cats eat tuna?Safer treats your dog can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can dogs eat tuna?
A little. Tuna is not toxic, but it contains more mercury than smaller fish, so keep it occasional.
How much tuna can a dog have?
A tablespoon of tinned tuna in water, once a week.
What makes tuna risky for dogs?
Mercury (builds up over time).
What should I do if my dog ate tuna?
A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.
Is tuna safe for cats too?
As a treat only. Cats love tuna, but a diet heavy in it can lead to mercury build-up and a lack of other nutrients.
Sources
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts