Can cats eat yoghurt?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Many cats are lactose intolerant, so dairy can cause stomach upset.
Why
Yoghurt is not needed and can upset some cats.
Can cats eat yoghurt, and why?
Yoghurt is not needed and can upset some cats. Many cats are lactose intolerant, so dairy can cause stomach upset.
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.
Warning — what to watch for
Many cats are lactose intolerant, so dairy can cause stomach upset.
If your cat has eaten yoghurt, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat yoghurt?
Caution. Yoghurt is not needed and can upset some cats.
What happens if my cat eats yoghurt?
Many cats are lactose intolerant, so dairy can cause stomach upset. If your cat has eaten yoghurt, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is yoghurt poisonous to cats?
Caution. Yoghurt is not needed and can upset some cats.
Check yoghurt for another pet