Cats can eat cheese, but it must be given with caution and only in small amounts. Many cats are lactose intolerant, meaning cheese can cause gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Cheese is not toxic to cats and can be a nutritious treat high in protein and calcium, but due to the lactose content and high calories, cheese should be offered sparingly, preferably no more than a dice-sized piece once or twice a week.
Which Cheeses Are Better for Cats?
- Firmer cheeses with lower lactose content like cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, provolone, gouda, and goat cheese are generally safer options.
- Softer cheeses such as cream cheese, cottage cheese, mozzarella, brie, and blue cheese are best avoided because they have higher lactose and are more likely to upset a cat's stomach.
Important Considerations
- If a cat has lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy, no cheese should be given.
- Avoid processed cheese products and cheese-based snacks like Cheez-Its which contain unhealthy additives.
- Kittens can digest dairy better than adult cats but this ability declines with age.
In summary, cheese is not harmful per se but should only be an occasional treat in very small amounts if the cat tolerates it at all.
