Protein
Sardines (plain, in water)
Small oily fish packed with omega-3 — one of the most nutritious occasional additions to a dog's or cat's diet.
Preparation matters as much as the ingredient.
Who can eat it
DogsCats
Not suitable for
Animals on vet-prescribed low-fat diets without veterinary approval
Benefits
- Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Soft edible bones provide calcium
- High-value food for fussy eaters
Risks
- Calorie-dense — adjust meals to compensate
- Fish in oil, brine or sauce is unsuitable
- Should not replace a balanced diet
Preparation and serving
- Preparation
- Tinned in water with no added salt, drained. Fresh sardines should be cooked plain.
- Serving guidance
- Half to one sardine for a cat or small dog, one to two for a large dog, once or twice a week.