Can cats eat cheese?
Also called: cheddar, cream cheese, cheese slice
Caution
A small piece is sometimes used as a treat, but dairy upsets many cats' stomachs.
Only a tiny piece, if at all. Some vets list cheese as a treat cats enjoy, but many cats are lactose intolerant and dairy can upset their stomach.
When it's a problem
- Dairy can cause stomach upset in lactose-intolerant cats.
Keep in mind
- Plain, unseasoned and as an occasional treat only.
Where this comes from
VCA Animal Hospitals
Foods that are safe and often enjoyed by cats include apples, cheese, cooked eggs, zucchini, green beans, pasta noodles, blueberries
Read "Using Food and Treats for Training Cats"
Checked 9 October 2026
Cornell Feline Health Center
Milk is not generally recommended as a treat for cats, as many cats are lactose-intolerant and can develop gastrointestinal problems if fed dairy products.
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
VCA Animal Hospitals
Foods that are safe and often enjoyed by cats include apples, cheese, cooked eggs, zucchini, green beans, pasta noodles, blueberries
Read "Using Food and Treats for Training Cats"
Checked 9 October 2026
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
A small cube of cheese is a great snack and/or pill disguise for your four-legged friend!
Read "Sharing is Caring: Foods You Can Safely Share with Your Pet"
Checked 9 October 2026
Cornell Feline Health Center
Milk is not generally recommended as a treat for cats, as many cats are lactose-intolerant and can develop gastrointestinal problems if fed dairy products.
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
Cornell Feline Health Center
Milk is not generally recommended as a treat for cats, as many cats are lactose-intolerant and can develop gastrointestinal problems if fed dairy products.
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
VCA Animal Hospitals
Offer these foods without seasonings and ideally choose low-calorie foods.
Read "Using Food and Treats for Training Cats"
Checked 9 October 2026
VCA Animal Hospitals
treats should be limited to 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
Checked 9 October 2026
Where this comes from
VCA Animal Hospitals
Foods that are safe and often enjoyed by cats include apples, cheese, cooked eggs, zucchini, green beans, pasta noodles, blueberries
Read "Using Food and Treats for Training Cats"
Checked 9 October 2026
ASPCA Animal Poison Control
A small cube of cheese is a great snack and/or pill disguise for your four-legged friend!
Read "Sharing is Caring: Foods You Can Safely Share with Your Pet"
Checked 9 October 2026
Merck Veterinary Manual
Raw meat and dairy products of any kind, including raw milk, should not be fed to cats.
Read "Proper Nutrition for Cats"
Checked 9 October 2026