Can Cats Eat Dairy Products?

A lot of us love cottage cheese and other dairy products. And cottage cheese is low in fat, has a lot of protein and is high in calcium, which we humans need. As we love to treat our cats to the food we eat, is it safe for cats to eat cottage cheese or other dairy products?

Cats tend to be lactose intolerant

The primary concern with feeding cats dairy products stems from lactose intolerance. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack sufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme required to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk.

While kittens produce lactase to digest their mother's milk, this production significantly decreases after weaning. As a result, adult cats often experience digestive issues when consuming dairy.

What are the symptoms of Lactose Intolerance in Cats?

When a lactose-intolerant cat consumes dairy, it can lead to gastrointestinal distress.

Common symptoms include:

Diarrhea: The undigested lactose ferments in the intestines which will then drawing water into the colon and causing loose stools.

Vomiting: Some cats may vomit after consuming dairy.

Bloating and Gas:  the fermentation of lactose can lead to gas and bloating, making the cat uncomfortable.

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount of dairy consumed and the individual cat's sensitivity.

Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs - Dairy Products aren’t Among Them

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet primarily consists of meat. Their nutritional needs are specific, requiring high levels of protein and certain vitamins and minerals found predominantly in animal tissues.

Dairy products do not meet these nutritional requirements and should not be a staple in their diet.

Some Safe Dairy Alternatives for Cats

While most cats should avoid dairy, there are some alternatives and exceptions:

Lactose-Free Milk: Specially formulated lactose-free milk for cats is available in pet stores or your favorite on-line place to buy your cat products. This milk undergoes a process to remove or break down the lactose, making it easier for cats to digest.

Small Pieces of Cheese (Occasionally): Small amounts of hard cheeses, which contain less lactose, may be tolerable for some cats. However, it's best to offer cheese as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.

Yogurt: Some cats can tolerate plain, unsweetened yogurt, which contains beneficial probiotics. However, the lactose content can still cause issues, so moderation is key. 

Always test any of the above in small doses to see how your cat tolerates the product.

The Risks of High-Fat Dairy Products

Even if a cat can tolerate some lactose, high-fat dairy products like cream and butter can pose other health risks. High-fat foods can lead to obesity and pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious inflammation of the pancreas.

Cats do not need high-fat foods in their diet, and introducing such foods can disrupt their overall nutritional balance.

Special Considerations for Kittens

Kittens can digest their mother's milk or specially formulated kitten milk replacers, which contain the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. Cow's milk, however, is not suitable for kittens as it does not provide the appropriate nutrient balance and can cause digestive upset.

Monitoring and Moderation for Any New Dairy Product

If you decide to offer your cat a dairy treat, it’s important to monitor their reaction. Start with a very small amount and watch for any signs of digestive distress over the next 24 hours. If your cat shows symptoms of lactose intolerance, it’s best to avoid dairy altogether.

While the image of a cat drinking milk is deeply ingrained in popular culture, the reality is that most cats are lactose intolerant and can suffer from digestive issues when consuming dairy products. Therefore, if you want to give your cat a dairy treat, always opt for lactose-free options and always in moderation.  

A bite of cottage cheese or any other dairy product occasionally won’t hurt your kitties (especially low or no-fat dairy), but it’s always best to be on the safe side.