Food · 🐱 Cats

Can cats eat cheese?

Caution for cats

Only a tiny piece. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, so cheese can upset their stomach.

What’s the risk?

Cheese has less lactose than milk, so a small bit of hard cheese is usually tolerated. It’s high in fat and salt, and it isn’t part of a cat’s natural diet.

Signs to watch for

  • Diarrhea
  • Gas
  • Vomiting

How much is dangerous?

A pea-sized piece occasionally.

If your cat ate some

Mild upset should pass. Call your vet if it lasts more than a day.

Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, Pet Poison Helpline, Merck Veterinary Manual. This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet ate something and you’re worried, call your vet or a poison line right away.