Can Cats Eat Cream Cheese?

As a cat owner, you might occasionally contemplate whether you can share a treat like cream cheese with your feline companion. While it's tempting to indulge your cat, it's vital to consider the implications of what they consume. Despite the popular notion that cats adore dairy, it's not always suitable for them. Cats sipping saucers of milk or indulging in cream cheese might seem like the ideal image, but experts advise caution.

When Is Cheese Bad for Cats?

Cats can indeed eat cheese in small amounts, but it comes with potential gastrointestinal (GI) problems. Excessive cheese consumption can lead to issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, bloating, and flatulence. Several key factors make cheese less than ideal for cats:

Lactose Intolerance

Contrary to the belief that cats love dairy, most are lactose-intolerant. After weaning, cats cease to produce lactase, an enzyme essential for breaking down lactose. Consuming cheese or dairy products can lead to symptoms like diarrhea within hours for lactose-intolerant cats.

Dairy Allergies

While lactose intolerance can cause stomach upset, a dairy allergy is a more severe concern. It affects a small portion of the feline population and can lead to skin disorders and gastrointestinal issues. In rare cases, it might trigger anaphylactic reactions, posing life-threatening risks. Carefully observe your cat after introducing any new food to watch for adverse reactions.

High Sodium Content

Cats with specific health conditions, like kidney or heart disease, may require reduced salt intake. Cheese contains substantial sodium levels, making it a potential risk for some cats. Consult your vet if you have concerns about your cat's dietary salt consumption.

High Fat and Calorie Content

Cheese is calorie-rich and high in fat, meaning regular consumption can lead to weight gain. Offering a one-ounce cube of cheddar cheese to an average ten-pound cat is akin to a person eating two and a half cheeseburgers in one sitting. Obesity in cats can reduce life expectancy and lead to numerous health complications.

Harmful Additives

Some cheese varieties come with additives like garlic, onions, and chives, which are toxic to pets. These additives can harm a cat's red blood cells and cause anemia, making it essential to avoid such cheese varieties.

Safely Feeding Cheese to Your Cat

While cheese is not toxic to cats, it's best not to include it in their regular diet due to the potential issues it can cause. However, if your cat manages to sneak a small piece or licks a bit of cheese, it's unlikely to lead to significant problems. Keep a close eye on your cat for digestive issues like diarrhea or vomiting if she consumes a large amount of cheese. In case of severe illness, consult your vet.

Feeding your cat a tiny amount of cheese can be acceptable in one particular situation—when giving medication. Wrapping a pill in a small portion of cheese, like cream cheese or soft cheese, can make it easier for your cat to take medication. But be cautious and avoid overfeeding. Consult your veterinarian for guidance based on your cat's specific needs and preferences.

In Conclusion

While it's advisable to minimize your cat's consumption of cream cheese and dairy products, we understand the challenge of denying your feline companion. If you must offer cream cheese, keep it to a minimum. The less cream cheese in your cat's diet, the healthier and happier they are likely to be. Consult your vet regarding the safety of feeding your cat cream cheese, taking your cat's body and preferences into account before doing so.