Can cats eat cheese? IMPORTANT QUESTION. Perhaps your cat takes every opportunity to grab that slice of cheese on the kitchen counter. But should your cat eat cheese?
Dairy is not the standard diet for cats considering that they are obligate carnivores that prefer meat. However, your cat can enjoy cheese once in a while as a treat. Keep in mind that overconsumption of cheese might lead to symptoms such as diarrhea in cats, so it is advisable to keep the cheese intake minimal.
Table of Contents
- Why Do Cats Love Cheese?
- What Cheese Is Safe for Cats?
- How Do You Know If Your Cat Is Allergic to Cheese?
Why Do Cats Love Cheese?
Cats love cheese because it is delicious. This is due to the fat rich in fat-soluble vitamins, and the protein content. Cats can smell fats and proteins. Your cat may be especially enticed if you purchase raw, full-fat, or particularly stinky cheeses. cheese attracts your kitty’s attention because it is an animal product with some overlapping nutritional qualities. If your kitty loves cheese now, she probably always will.
Though a cat may have a built-in craving for cheese doesn’t necessarily mean cheese is a good addition his daily diet . Research has shown that most cats can’t digest dairy, so your cat might enjoy taking cheese but later experience dairy intolerance symptoms. Additionally, cheese can be very calorically dense. You don’t want your cat overeating, or filling up on cheese that replaces other nutritious foods.
What Cheese Is Safe for Cats?
You can give your cat cheese as a special treat. However, keep the amount minimal. A cube once a week ok. When it comes to cheese, try and opt for the low lactose options since lactose is difficult for cats to digest.
Some good cheese options for cats include cheddar, Swiss, cottage, brie, and mozzarella. However, it is safer to give your cat pure cheese and stay away from cheese with additives like spices, colorings, or onions.
Can cats eat cream cheese?
Yes, because of the low lactose in cream cheese, it is safe for cats to consume a reasonable amount. Cream cheese is a good option for mixing medications into, or for an occasional snack.
can cats eat hard cheese?
Hard cheese is considered the safest option for cats but before feeding your cat, make sure that you check the label for any extra ingredients. Flavorings or add-ins might be dangerous for cats, such as garlic or onion.
How Do You Know If Your Cat Is Allergic to Cheese?
Many cats are lactose intolerant, which is what most people mean when they say their cat is “allergic to cheese”. However, you may not know if your cat is lactose intolerant.The signs of lactose intolerance in a cat include
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- general discomfort leading to irritability and anxious behaviors.
- itchiness
- red spots
- hair loss.
If your cat is new to cheese, or you’re not sure, watch out of these signs that your cat is allergic to cheese.
You will likely see these symptoms about 10 hours after giving your cat cheese. These symptoms should go away in a few hours, and the best you can do is keep your cat hydrated for comfort. But if the symptoms go on for more than 8 hours, your cat might need further treatment. Always consult your veterinarian any time your have a concern regarding your pet’s health.
