One of our long time Whiskas customer recently asked ; “Is it Ok to Feed Cats on Omena since most of my cat loves wet food with fish anyway?”

Omena, also known as Lake Victoria sardine, silver cyprinid or silverfish, is a type of small fish commonly found in parts of East Africa especially in Lake Victoria. While it is a common food source for humans in Kenya, it is not an ideal food for cats.

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet high in animal protein to meet their nutritional needs. Omena may contain some protein, but it is not a complete source of the nutrients that cats require. Feeding your cat a diet that is deficient in essential nutrients can lead to health problems such as malnutrition, weakened immune system, and gastrointestinal issues.

In addition, omena may contain high levels of thiaminase, an enzyme that breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1). Thiamine is an essential nutrient for cats, and a deficiency can lead to neurological problems such as seizures, loss of appetite, and even death.

Cat owners may be tempted to feed their cats on a majorly omena diet due to its relatively low price and ready availability in open air markets and in supermarkets. However, animal health experts cautions against it and instead encourage relying on full and balanced cat foods from reliable brands.

Therefore, it is not recommended to feed cats on omena as a primary food source. It is essential to provide your cat with a nutritionally balanced diet that meets all their nutritional needs. If you have any doubts about what to feed your cat, it is best to consult with a feline nutrition expert.