Can cats eat cottage cheese?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A small spoonful occasionally as a treat.
Why
A little plain cottage cheese is lower in lactose and tolerated by some cats.
Can cats eat cottage cheese, and why?
A little plain cottage cheese is lower in lactose and tolerated by some cats. Lactose-intolerant cats may get an upset stomach; keep it small and infrequent.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
How to feed cottage cheese to cats
- •How much: A small spoonful occasionally as a treat.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
- •Young pets: Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat cottage cheese?
In moderation. A little plain cottage cheese is lower in lactose and tolerated by some cats.
How much cottage cheese can a cat have?
A small spoonful occasionally as a treat.
Can cats eat cottage cheese every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Any treat should be occasional and tiny — no more than about 10% of daily calories — and never replace a balanced cat food.
Can kittens eat cottage cheese?
Kittens have sensitive digestion and high growth needs, so introduce new foods cautiously and ask your vet.
Check cottage cheese for another pet