Yes, cats can have cheese if they are healthy and have no issues with lactose intolerance, pancreatitis, obesity, or other health problems exacerbated by cheese contents.
Cats are curious creatures, and many cat owners wonder whether cheese is a safe treat for their feline friends. Understanding whether cats can safely eat cheese involves considering factors such as lactose intolerance, the types of cheese, and the potential health benefits and risks associated with feeding dairy to cats.
In this article, we explore the following:
How Much Cheese Can Cats Have? Consider The Benefits, Risks, and Limitations
Is Cheese Safe for Cats?
Yes, low-fat cheese is safe for cats if given in moderation. Determining if cheese is safe for cats involves understanding their dietary needs and health history, and it is always best to consult a veterinarian before introducing any new food into their diet.
What Types of Cheese are Safe for Cats?
Certain types of cheese like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan can be given to cats in small amounts and in moderation as occasional treats.
While cats are known for their love of fish, some felines also enjoy the occasional nibble of cheese. It is important to remember that not all types of cheese are safe for cats. Opt for low-fat cheeses like cottage cheese or mozzarella, as these are easier on their digestive systems. Cheese should only be given as a rare treat due to its high fat and lactose content.
The table below shows the total lipid (fat) content of each cheese type according to USDA.
Cheese Type (per 100 grams) | Total lipid (fat) |
Cottage | 2.3 grams |
Cottage (full fat) | 4.22 grams |
Ricotta | 11 grams |
Mozzarella | 17.8 grams |
Feta (whole milk) | 19.1grams |
Oaxaca | 22.1grams |
Queso Fresco | 23.4 grams |
Dry White | 24.3 grams |
Cotija | 27.2 grams |
Parmesan | 28 grams |
Provolone | 28.1 grams |
Swiss | 31 grams |
Monterey Jack | 32.6 grams |
Cheddar | 33.3 grams |
Cream cheese (full fat) | 33.5 grams |
Try offering small, bite-sized pieces as rewards during training sessions or sprinkling a tiny amount over their regular meals for a special touch.
What are the Nutritional Benefits of Cheese for Cats?
The nutritional benefits of cheese for cats are listed below:
Protein: Cheese is a good source of protein, which is essential for cats as obligate carnivores. Protein helps in muscle development and overall growth.
Calcium: Cheese contains calcium, which is important for bone health and development in cats.
Vitamin A and B12: These vitamins found in cheese are beneficial for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and overall metabolic functions.
Fat: Cheese has a high-fat content providing a quick energy boost and helping in maintaining a healthy coat.
When included in a balanced diet, these nutrients from cheese help ensure that a cat receives the necessary building blocks for growth and maintenance. Cats require 12-15% dietary protein for maintenance (Rogers, Q., & Morris, J.,1982).
“Cheeses contain significant protein content and are better absorbed than dairy, helping prevent protein-energy depletion,” according to the 2023 study by Kalugina, O., et al.
It's important to remember that cheese should be given in moderation due to its high fat content leading to obesity and digestive issues if consumed excessively.
What Factors Should Be Considered When Feeding Cheese to Cats? Benefits, Risks, and Limitations
When feeding cheese to cats, it is important to consider their age, any existing health conditions, and whether they are on any prescription diets. Other factors to consider are listed below.
Lactose Intolerance: Many cats cannot digest lactose, leading to digestive issues like diarrhea and vomiting.
Portion Size: Offer cheese in small amounts as an occasional treat to avoid excessive calorie intake and obesity.
Nutritional Balance: Ensure cheese doesn't replace a balanced diet that provides all essential nutrients like taurine.
Fat and Salt Content: Cheese is high in fat and salt, contributing to obesity, pancreatitis, and kidney issues if fed in large quantities.
Individual Health Conditions: Avoid giving cheese to cats with health issues like kidney disease or pancreatitis; consult a veterinarian first.
Type of Cheese: Choose low-lactose cheeses like hard cheeses, and avoid those with harmful additives like garlic or onion.
Cat’s Preferences and Reactions: Monitor the cat's reaction to cheese and discontinue if any adverse symptoms occur.
“Pre- and postnatal exposure to cheese flavor via maternal ingestion influences later olfactory and food preferences of cats,” according to the 2010 study by Becques, A., et al.
Is Cheese Bad for Cats?
Yes, cheese is bad for cats if given inappropriately. The potential risks of cheese to cats are listed below.
Digestive Issues: Cheese causes stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting, especially if the cat cannot digest dairy properly.
Allergic Reaction: Some cats are allergic to dairy, leading to itching, swelling, and respiratory issues.
Toxicity: Cheese contains harmful ingredients like garlic, onion, or certain herbs that are toxic to cats.
Infection: Unpasteurized cheese carries harmful bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria, which cause infections.
Lactose Intolerance: Many cats lack the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose, resulting in digestive problems.
Pancreatitis: The high-fat content in cheese triggers pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas, causing severe abdominal pain and other health issues.
Obesity: Cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat, contributing to weight gain and obesity if fed regularly.
Strict sanitary practices are strongly emphasized when giving raw goat cheese to cats.
“One cat fed cheese shed oocysts 7 to 11 days after consuming it, indicating that raw fresh goat cheese made by cold-enzyme treatment should not be consumed,” according to the 2014 study by Dubey, J., et al. Another 1967 study showed that “Cheese can produce enterotoxin A, which can be harmful to cats when ingested,” according to Donnelly, C., et al.
Can Cheese Cause Stomach Upset in Cats?
Yes, cheese causes stomach upset in cats if they are not accustomed to dairy products.
Some common symptoms of stomach upset in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort. Cats also show signs of lethargy or a lack of appetite when their stomach is not feeling well. It's important to pay attention to any behavioral changes or unusual patterns in their litter box habits.
For some cats, cheese is a problematic food due to their reduced ability to digest lactose. Lactose intolerance in cats leads to digestive issues, such as gas and diarrhea, when they consume dairy products. This is because many cats lack sufficient levels of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose.
To monitor and address stomach upset in cats, it's best to avoid feeding them cheese or any dairy products in large quantities. Instead, focus on providing a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. If a cat does experience stomach upset, consider consulting a veterinarian for advice on appropriate dietary changes or potential treatment options.
Can Cats Be Allergic to Cheese?
Yes, some cats are allergic to cheese, just as they are potentially allergic to other foods, and it is important to consult a veterinarian if you suspect a cat has a food allergy.
Common signs of food allergies in cats include itching, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin issues. Dairy products like milk and cheese trigger allergic reactions in felines due to specific protein allergies. Understanding these symptoms and the potential allergens, such as cheese, that affect your cat's health is crucial in ensuring their well-being.
Veterinary guidance is essential in diagnosing and managing food allergies to provide your furry friend with the best possible care.
Do Cats Have Lactose Intolerance?
Yes, many cats are lactose intolerant because they lack the lactase enzyme needed to properly digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products.
When cats consume dairy products, such as milk or cheese, without adequate lactase enzymes, they experience digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This intolerance is common among adult cats due to the natural decrease in lactase production as they age.
Cat owners need to be mindful of this intolerance and avoid offering their feline companions dairy treats. Felines have difficulty breaking down lactose efficiently, and repeated consumption of dairy leads to discomfort and potential health problems.
How Much Cheese Can Cats Have? Consider the Benefits, Risks, and Limitations
Cats should only be given cheese in small amounts and in moderation, as occasional treats rather than a regular part of their diet.
While cats may enjoy the taste of cheese, it is important to consider their digestive system and nutritional needs. As carnivores, cats require a diet that is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. Cheese, being a dairy product, is not a natural part of a cat's diet and leads to digestive issues if consumed in large quantities.
Appropriate portion sizes should be small, about the size of a pea or smaller, to ensure that cats enjoy the treat without any negative repercussions. It's recommended to offer cheese as a treat no more than a few times a week to prevent overconsumption and maintain a balanced diet.
How Should Cheese Be Given to Cats?
When giving cheese to cats, it is important to incorporate it into their diet as a treat rather than a staple, ensuring it is given in a manner that is safe and enjoyable for the cat.
Can Cats Eat Cheese Everyday?
No, cats should not eat cheese every day; it should be given in moderation and as an occasional treat to prevent potential health issues.
Cheese, while a delicious and indulgent snack for humans, is not an ideal food choice for felines due to several reasons. Many cats are lactose intolerant, meaning their bodies struggle to digest dairy products properly, leading to digestive discomfort like diarrhea and upset stomachs. Cheese is often high in fat and salt, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems in cats if consumed in excess.
Instead of cheese, opting for cat-friendly treats like freeze-dried meat treats or pieces of cooked chicken is a healthier and more suitable option for regular snacking. These alternatives are lower in lactose, fat, and salt, making them easier for cats to digest and less likely to cause adverse effects.
Can Cats Eat Cheese Bread?
No. A pinch of plain cheese bread does not initially harm your cat but cats should avoid cheese bread as it often contains ingredients like sugar or garlic, onions, and other spices that are harmful to cats.
Garlic and onions cause gastrointestinal upset, damage red blood cells, and lead to potentially fatal anemia in cats. These ingredients are toxic to our feline friends and should be strictly avoided in their diet.
The high-fat content in cheese bread leads to obesity and digestive issues in cats. It's essential to be cautious when feeding human foods to cats and opt for safer alternatives like plain cooked chicken or fish. These options provide a healthy source of protein without the risks posed by cheese bread.
My Cat Ate Cheese, What Should I Do?
If your cat ate cheese and exhibits any unusual symptoms, it is important to consult a veterinarian to determine the best course of action.
Closely observe your cat for any signs of digestive discomfort such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. Watch their behavior and appetite, as sudden changes could indicate a problem.
Next, provide your cat with plenty of fresh water to help flush out any potential digestive issues caused by the cheese consumption.
Avoid giving a cat any more cheese or dairy products to prevent further upset stomach or complications.
If symptoms persist or worsen, schedule a prompt visit to the veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.
What Are Good Cheese Alternatives for Cats?
Some good cheese alternatives for cats are listed below.
Dairy-Free Cheese: Made from plant-based ingredients like nuts or soy, these cheeses contain no lactose, reducing the risk of digestive issues.
Lactose-Free Cheese: These cheeses are specifically processed to remove lactose, making them easier for lactose-intolerant cats to digest.
Catnip-Infused Cheese: Specially formulated for cats, this cheese contains catnip, which is enticing for cats while also being designed to meet their dietary needs.
Cooked Meat: Lean meats like chicken, turkey, or beef provide protein and are easier for cats to digest than dairy.
Fish: Small amounts of cooked fish, such as salmon or tuna are tasty treats rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Cat-Specific Treats: Commercially available cat treats are formulated to meet feline nutritional needs and come in various flavors and textures.
Eggs: Cooked eggs (scrambled or boiled) offer a good source of protein and essential nutrients without lactose.
Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin is high in fiber and aids digestion while being a low-calorie treat.
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