Meats & proteins
Can cats eat shrimp?
Cooked, peeled, plain shrimp is a fine treat. Raw, breaded or garlicky shrimp is not.
Portion: 1 medium shrimp, chopped, occasionally.
The short answer
Yes. Plain cooked shrimp is a high-protein, low-fat treat most cats love. Boil or steam it with no seasoning, and remove the shell, tail, head and digestive tract. Skip garlic-butter, fried, breaded and cocktail-sauce shrimp. Shop-bought cooked shrimp is often salted, so rinse it or choose unsalted.
Why the verdict
Shrimp meat is lean protein. The problems are preparation: garlic and onion (toxic alliums), butter and batter (fat), salt, and raw shellfish bacteria. Shells and tails are a choking and obstruction risk. Some cats have shellfish allergies.
How to prepare it
- Fully cook: boiled or steamed.
- Peel completely. Remove the head, tail and vein.
- No garlic, butter, salt, breading or sauce.
- Chop into small pieces.
Signs of trouble
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Itching or facial swelling (allergy)
- Choking or gagging (shell)
Shrimp & cats: FAQ
Can cats eat raw shrimp?
Not recommended because of bacterial risk. Cook it first.
Can cats eat shrimp tails or shells?
No. They're sharp and hard to digest, and can cause choking or blockage.
Can cats eat garlic shrimp?
No. Garlic is toxic to cats even in small amounts.
Related foods
See every food that’s toxic to cats →
Sources
- Cornell Feline Health Center — Feeding Your Cat (accessed 2026-09-29)
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (accessed 2026-09-29)
Last updated 2026-09-29. We are not veterinarians: this guide summarises published veterinary references and is not a substitute for advice from your vet. See our methodology and disclaimer.