Protein
Tinned sardines in water
An oily fish rich in omega-3 — a useful occasional addition for dogs and cats.
Illustrative cover using relevant category imagery; it does not depict the exact subject.
Who can eat it
DogsCats
Not suitable for
Pets on vet-prescribed low-fat diets
Benefits
- Omega-3 fatty acids support skin, coat and joints
- Soft bones provide calcium
Risks
- Choose sardines in water, not oil, brine or sauce
- Adds calories — reduce the main meal accordingly
Preparation and serving
- Preparation
- Straight from the tin, drained; check for added salt.
- Serving guidance
- Half a sardine for a cat or small dog; one or two for a large dog, once or twice a week.
Before offering tinned sardines in water
- Check the exact animal and preparation: the listed suitability is Dogs; Cats. A food being edible does not make it a complete diet.
- Follow the preparation advice: Straight from the tin, drained; check for added salt. Do not substitute a seasoned or processed version and assume the same safety.
- Portion guidance: Half a sardine for a cat or small dog; one or two for a large dog, once or twice a week. For a pet on a prescribed diet, discuss extras with the vet first.
- If your pet develops vomiting, diarrhoea or discomfort, stop offering the extra and seek advice. Suspected poisoning or breathing difficulty needs immediate veterinary help.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- WSAVA — global veterinary guidelines on nutrition, vaccination, pain and dental care
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- International Cat Care — cat health, behaviour and welfare advice