More likely than not, fake crab is okay for cats to eat in small amounts. You should check the package to rule out any toxic ingredients that’d harm a cat. Other than that, a little imitation crab every now and then wouldn’t hurt your cat.
Fake crab meat is nothing but crab-flavored fish. It’s made the same way hotdogs or chicken tenders are made: they debone fish, mince it into a paste, and add flavoring to match crab flavor.
When it comes to cats eating it, imitation crab is similar to fish sticks: If no extra ingredients are added in the process, cats will have no issue eating it.
Before you let your cat enjoy any type of seafood, make sure you check with your vet to rule out any possible allergies.
Can cats eat crab meat?
As long as you cook the crab meat, there’s no issue with your cat having a little crab meat alongside its cat food. Make sure you check with your vet beforehand. If you get the okay, remember to cook it with as few ingredients as possible.
Crabmeat, alongside shrimps and a few other examples, have a low level of mercury in it. Unlike more famously (and oddly enough, harmful) seafood alternatives for a cat, such as tuna meat, crab meat is relatively safe for felines.
Remember that any alternative to cat food should only represent 10% of your cat’s diet. If your cat starts to overindulge on crab meat, it’s best to pull back for a little bit until your cat is back on track with its cat food quota.
What happens if my cat eats fake crab?
Nothing bad will happen! As long as it was plain fake crab with no added sauce or similar, your cat will only have a stomach full of a delicious meal. Don’t let your cat make a habit out of eating imitation crab, though. They need certain nutrients fake crab lacks.
Even though fake crab is not bad for cats, don’t let your cat eat it freely. Make sure you allow your cat to eat it when the time’s right.
It’s the same as any treat: a little bit here and there won’t hurt. If you allow your cat to go overboard, then there’s trouble ahead. The smart thing would be giving your cat a little piece whenever you’re having crab yourself!
Is real crab better than fake crab for cats?
Both real crab and fake crab are made out of seafood, so there’s no difference whatsoever for your cat. Any cat will love and get the same nutrients from either of these two options. If your cat has a personal preference for either one, get that one!
Even though imitation crab sounds worse than real crab because it’s “fake”, they are both equally healthy for cats. Or rather, as healthy as any non-cat-food alternative would be for a cat. Whether you buy real crab or fake crab, that’s up to you.