Is Yogurt Good for Cats?

Is Yogurt Good for Cats? Yogurt can be safe for cats in small amounts, but it’s not necessarily good for them.

While plain, unsweetened yogurt contains probiotics that might benefit digestion, many cats are lactose intolerant, making dairy products like yogurt difficult for them to digest.

If you decide to feed yogurt to your cat, it should only be offered as an occasional treat, and always consult your vet before adding it to your cat’s diet.

The Effects of Yogurt on Cats

Cats can eat yogurt, but it should be plain and unsweetened.

While yogurt contains probiotics that may benefit some cats’ digestion, many cats are lactose intolerant and consuming yogurt can lead to digestive issues like diarrhea, bloating, or stomach discomfort.

Adult cats often lose the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose, so it’s wise to offer lactose-free alternatives and consult your vet before adding dairy to their diet.

Even for those who tolerate yogurt, it should be given in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.

Learn more about lactose intolerance on Wikipedia.

For more on probiotics and cat digestion, explore about can cats drink almond milk nutrition guide.

Risks of Feeding Yogurt to Cats

While yogurt is generally safe for cats when given in moderation, there are risks involved, especially for lactose-intolerant cats or those sensitive to dairy products. Here are the main concerns:

• Digestive Upset: Many cats struggle to digest lactose, which can result in digestive issues like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps if they consume yogurt. If you decide to give your cat yogurt, keep an eye on them afterward to watch for any adverse reactions.

• Added Sugars and Artificial Sweeteners: Flavored or sweetened yogurts, particularly those with artificial sweeteners like xylitol, are harmful to cats, as xylitol is highly toxic. To ensure safety, always opt for plain, unsweetened yogurt without any harmful additives.

• Obesity and Weight Gain: Yogurt, like any treat, adds extra calories that can contribute to weight gain, particularly in older or less active cats. To prevent obesity, treats like yogurt should be given in moderation, with the majority of a cat’s diet coming from balanced, high-quality cat food.

For advice on maintaining your cat’s weight, explore our cat weight management guide.

Safe Ways to Feed Yogurt to Cats

If you choose to give your cat yogurt, ensure it’s plain and unsweetened, avoiding any flavored varieties or harmful ingredients like chocolate or xylitol.

Offer it in small amounts, such as a teaspoon, and monitor your cat for any signs of digestive upset.

Always consult your vet before introducing new foods, including yogurt, to ensure it’s a safe treat for your cat.

For more on toxic ingredients for cats, see our guide to unsafe foods for cats.

Alternatives to Yogurt for Cats

If your cat is lactose intolerant or you’d prefer to avoid dairy, there are safe alternatives to yogurt, such as lactose-free or dairy-free cat treats that offer a similar texture without digestive risks.

You can also use vet-approved probiotic supplements to support your cat’s digestive health, ensuring they’re specifically formulated for cats for safety and effectiveness.

For more information on foods for cats, check out our guide on how long can cats go without food and water.

Conclusion

Yogurt can be safe for cats in small amounts, but it’s not an essential part of their diet.

While some cats may benefit from the probiotics in plain, unsweetened yogurt, many are lactose intolerant and could experience digestive upset.

If you do choose to offer yogurt as a treat, stick to plain varieties and offer it sparingly.

Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your cat’s diet to ensure they stay healthy and happy.

FAQs

Not all cats can eat yogurt, as many are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive issues.

If your cat can tolerate dairy, plain, unsweetened yogurt is the safest option, as flavored or sweetened varieties with added sugars or artificial sweeteners should be avoided.

Offer yogurt in small amounts, like a teaspoon, as an occasional treat, and always monitor for any signs of digestive upset after introducing it.