How to Stop Your Cat from Eating Your Fish: Safe Tips for Peaceful Coexistence
Curious cats and fluttery fish can make for a very stressful combination. If you’re constantly playing referee between your feline friend and your aquarium residents, you’re in the right place. At Petdirect, we get pet dynamics — and we’re here to help you create a calm, cohabitating space where both your cat and your fish can thrive. Here's how to stop your cat from trying to eat your pet fish, with practical and pet-parent-friendly solutions tailored to Kiwi homes.
Why Cats Are Attracted To Fish Tanks
To a cat, a fish tank is the ultimate entertainment centre: moving shapes, shimmering colours and the allure of water. Cats are natural hunters, and seeing fish darting around activates their prey instinct. The sound and movement of a fish filter or bubbling air pump can also pique their curiosity.
Plus, the warmth of a tank light often makes for a toasty perch. So while your cat might not be plotting a full-scale fish heist, the tank’s draw can be too tempting to ignore — unless you step in.
Choose A Secure, Cat-Proof Aquarium Setup
The first line of defence? Your equipment. Choose an aquarium with a secure lid that’s heavy enough (or locked in) so your cat can’t lift or knock it off. Also consider:
- Mounting tanks on sturdy, elevated stands
- Keeping tanks away from furniture your cat can jump from
- Using backgrounds and plants to reduce fish visibility at the top
You could also add cat repellents around the base of the stand, as a gentle reminder that this area is off limits. Many are made with pet-safe natural ingredients that discourage climbing without harm.
Provide Cat-Friendly Alternatives
If your cat’s interest in your fish is driven by boredom, give them something even more entertaining. Try introducing interactive cat toys like automated laser chasers or electronic mice that flicker across the floor to mimic prey behaviour.
You might also consider safe climbing options such as cat scratch towers with perches, especially if they're positioned near a window. Make the perch more appealing than the fish tank by placing a comfy bed or sprinkling some catnip.
Set Up Barriers And Deterrents
Physical boundaries can go a long way. Depending on your space, you might:
- Place the tank in a separate room with a cat-proof door
- Install shelves or play spaces that divert attention elsewhere
- Use motion-activated deterrents, like air puff devices (placed safely away from the tank)
For subtle behavioural support, explore calming products for cats in the form of sprays, diffusers or calming chews. These work well for curious kitties who get a bit too obsessed with their aquatic housemates.
Monitor And Train With Positive Reinforcement
Like all pet parenting, training takes time, patience and praise. If you catch your cat eyeing up the tank or preparing to leap, redirect them with a treat or toy. Every time they choose their own toys over the fish tank drama, reward them with affection or a tasty snack — try something from our healthy cat treat range.
You could also try using a smart pet camera to keep tabs on things while you’re out and about. They’re perfect if you’ve got a sneakily determined feline and peace-loving fish!
Keep Your Fish Calm And Safe
It’s not just about stopping your cat — you also want to make sure your fish feel safe. Stress in aquarium fish can cause illness or even death, so a secure and quiet environment is key. Enhance their habitat with:
- Aquarium plants or ornaments to hide behind
- Water conditioners to maintain a healthy tank
- Regular aquarium cleaning kits to keep their space squeaky clean and stress-free
Don’t forget to feed your fish the right diet based on species.
Final Thoughts: From Frenzy To Friendship
Your cat and your fish may never be best buds, but with a few simple steps, they can live together in peaceful disharmony. Secure equipment, engaging distractions, and a little positive training can go a long way in protecting your fish — and pleasing your curious kitty.
As always, Petdirect is here for every step of your journey. From aquarium essentials to cat toys and treats, we get pet harmony. And if you're looking to save on your regular shop, join our Pet Perks loyalty programme and earn Airpoints while you're at it!