Can cats eat cheese?

Why

Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, meaning the milk sugar in cheese can cause stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea. Cheese is also very high in fat and salt, which can lead to pancreatitis or other health issues if fed too often.

If you do feed it

• Offer only a tiny piece (smaller than a pea) as a rare treat, not a meal.
• Ensure the cheese is plain, low-sodium, and free of garlic, onion, or other flavorings.
• Only give this to cats that have tolerated small amounts of dairy before without issues.
• Stop immediately if you notice any signs of digestive distress.

Watch out for

• Sweetened or flavored cheeses (like cheddar with herbs or cream cheese with fruit)
• Cheese containing garlic, onion, or chives which are toxic to cats
• Moldy cheeses or those with high salt content
• Soft cheeses that may contain higher lactose levels

Better choices