Health benefits of feeding mackerel to your cat

Cats, like all animals, need balanced and nutritional meals. And as a pet parent, you surely want to give your furry family member the best there is. Today let’s talk about the benefits of feeding mackerel to your cat. This oily fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids and contains a treasure trove of essential vitamins and minerals that are so good for your feline. Here are nine potential benefits of mackerel that you must explore:

• #1 Excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids offer an extensive range of health benefits, including building an anti-inflammatory mechanism within the body. Regular intake of omega-3 has also been shown to improve cardiovascular health. Mackerel contains more omega-3 than most other oily fish provide.

• #2 Contains vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is essential for our cats’ immune and nervous systems as it is for us. Low levels of this vitamin can lead to deficiencies that can cause anemia and also damage the nervous system. Adding mackerel to the diet can take care of this essential vitamin.

• #3 Rich in protein

Cats need to get their regular dose of protein, and mackerel is an excellent source. Moreover, being a complete source of protein, the fish also supplies all essential amino acids. Yes, other leaner fish like cod and haddock can offer more protein, but with mackerel, you get high-quality protein with omega-3 fatty acids.

• #4 Has very low levels of mercury:

One thing not going in favor of seafood is that it is affected by mercury contamination. However, the Atlantic mackerel has the ‘least mercury’ contamination. And is considered to be the safest.

• #5 An excellent source of selenium

Selenium is an essential mineral that is required to ensure the proper functioning of the bod. Some of the benefits include:

1. Antioxidant properties
2. Maintains the health of the immune system
3. Helps in DNA production
4. Regulates thyroid hormones and maintains overall thyroid health

Additionally, certain studies have shown that higher selenium intake can lower several risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

• #6 Has been known to improve cardiovascular health

Along with the earlier mentioned nutrients, mackerel is a rich source of several other vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, and zinc, all of which are important for good cardiovascular health. Adding mackerel to the diet has shown to lower inflammation and improve vascular function.

• #7 Mackerel is a good source of vitamin D

Research has shown that vitamin D can display anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory actions. Luckily, mackerel is one of those foods that are high in this vitamin. A good reason to include it in your cat’s diet.

• #8 Can help improve cognitive function

While most of our cognitive abilities are intrinsic by nature, various foods and drinks have been known to have a positive (or negative) impact on cognition. Mackerel, with its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, supports a healthy mental state, and can actually even boost cognitive function.

By increasing mackerel in the diet, you can help your feline become more alert and retain her abilities for longer.

• #9 Is useful in reducing triglyceride levels

High levels of triglycerides indicate higher cardiovascular risk. However, consuming oily fish, such as mackerel, helps reduce triglycerides and brings down cardiovascular risk.

Conclusion Mackerel is a tasty fish and cats love it. But besides the taste, there are all these health reasons too include it in your cat’s diet regularly. Where else will you get a single source for omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and beneficial vitamins and minerals? And, it is a relatively more economical fish to purchase than many others. Include this healthy fish in your cat’s diet and give her the extra boost that she needs.