Can Cats Eat Cheese?

By the Animal Wellness Desk · Facts last checked October 21, 2026 · General information, not a vet visit

Cheese is not toxic to cats, but it is generally not a recommended treat. While a tiny piece is unlikely to cause immediate harm to most cats, its nutritional profile and the common feline inability to digest dairy make it a poor choice for their regular diet.

Many people think cats love milk and cheese, but most adult cats have difficulty processing dairy. Additionally, cheese is high in fat and salt, which are not suitable for a cat’s balanced nutritional needs. It can contribute to digestive upset and other issues.

Cheese and cats: the facts in one table

What makes cheese tricky for cats

The primary reason cheese is unsuitable for cats is that many are lactose intolerant. Like most mammals, kittens produce an enzyme called lactase to digest their mother’s milk. As they grow up and are weaned, their bodies typically produce much less of this enzyme. Without enough lactase, a cat cannot properly break down the lactose, a sugar found in milk and cheese. This can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea or vomiting.

Beyond the lactose issue, cheese is a food dense in fat and salt. A cat’s diet requires a careful balance of nutrients, and high-fat foods can contribute to weight gain over time. High salt content is also unhealthy for cats. Even a small amount of cheese can be a significant source of fat and sodium relative to a cat’s size and daily needs.

How to offer cheese safely and what to avoid

If you choose to offer your cat cheese, it must be done with caution and only on rare occasions. The safest option is a very small piece of plain, hard cheese. The piece should be tiny to minimize the amount of fat, salt, and lactose your cat consumes. Always introduce any new food slowly and watch for any signs of an upset stomach.

It is critical to avoid certain types of cheese. Never give a cat cheese that contains ingredients toxic to them. Many cheeses are flavored with garlic, onions, or chives, all of which are harmful to felines. Always read the ingredient label carefully before offering any human food to a pet.

When you should skip cheese altogether

Some cats should never be given cheese, even as an occasional treat. If your cat has a known sensitivity to dairy or has previously shown signs of digestive upset after consuming it, you should avoid cheese completely. Cats that are overweight or have health conditions that require a special diet should not eat high-fat, high-salt foods like cheese.

When to call your vet

Most cats who eat a little plain cheese need nothing more than watching. Call your vet if anything below shows up, or if your cat has a health condition or is on a special diet.

If your cat eats a large amount of cheese or a type containing toxic ingredients like garlic or onion, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Note what kind of cheese was eaten, how much, and when. If you observe signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or a sore belly after your cat eats cheese, contact your vet for guidance.

Emergency signs: go now

• Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
• Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
• Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
• Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
• Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear

Book an appointment soon

• Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
• Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
• Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
• Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.

Sources

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
• Cornell Feline Health Center: Feeding Your Cat

Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.