Key Takeaways
- Can cats eat yogurt safely? The answer is yes, depending on the type and the amount you feed your cat ✔️
- Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt with live bacteria is a good choice for cats. It supports their digestive health and provides an extra source of protein and calcium 💪
- Certain types may contain additives that are not safe for cats ⚠️
- Some cats may be prone to gastrointestinal problems when eating dairy products, including yogurt ⚠️
Some Types of Yogurt Are Beneficial for Cats
Despite the potential risks that some cats face when eating yogurt, some kinds can actually be beneficial for cats. For example, live-culture yogurt contains probiotics, which can help to support your cat’s digestive health. Probiotics can also help to improve your cat’s immune system function.

Many producers promise health benefits from eating yogurts. This isn’t always true. Flavored ones, such as vanilla yogurt or strawberry yogurt, can be high in added sugars and other additives that may be harmful for cats. If you decide to give your pet yogurt, it’s important to choose an unsweetened product, without any added flavors or sweeteners.
Can Cats Eat Yogurt Safely? Health Benefits of Yogurt
While you should always consult your veterinarian to get the most accurate information about what is and isn’t safe for your cat to eat, many people believe that cats can enjoy eating yogurt without any problems. It can even help to keep your pet’s gut bacteria in balance.
What else can cats eat yogurt for? In addition, yogurt is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin B12. It can also help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in your cat’s digestive system if they have been taking antibiotics.
Feed Your Cat Yogurt With Caution
If you do decide to give your cat yogurt, make sure that it’s sugar-free and made with live and active cultures of probiotic bacteria. Avoid feeding your cat flavored yogurts, as these can contain unhealthy additives and artificial colors. Serve your cat yogurt in small doses and only as a treat. Their diet should be mostly made up of high-quality cat food, not human food.

If you’re not sure whether your cat can eat yogurt, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian first. As with any new food, it’s important to watch for any signs that your cat is having a negative reaction. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include:
- vomiting;
- diarrhea;
- excessive scratching;
- excessive licking.
If you notice any of these symptoms, stop giving your cat yogurt and contact your veterinarian immediately.
How Much Yogurt Can I Give My Cat?
The recommended amount that you can give your pet depends on the kind of yogurt that you are giving. As a general rule, start with a small amount (like a teaspoon) and gradually increase it if your cat does not experience any adverse effects. Make sure that your cat always has access to fresh water in case of gastrointestinal upset.
Some Cats Are Lactose Intolerant
Some cats may experience allergy or intolerance symptoms after eating dairy products, including yogurt. This is because many cats are lactose intolerant. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea and other digestive issues. If your cat experiences any of these symptoms after eating yogurt, you should speak to your veterinarian about a potential dairy allergy or intolerance.

So can cats eat yogurt? Greek yogurt may be okay for some cats with lactose intolerance, as it contains less lactose than regular yogurt, milk or ice cream. Still, offer it in moderation!
What Kind of Yogurt Is the Safest for Cats to Eat?
While yogurt is generally safe for cats to eat, it’s important to make sure that you give them the right type. Look for yogurt that is low in sugar and devoid of artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors. Plain yogurt is best, though some cats may want to steal flavored varieties as well – don’t let them! Always avoid yogurts with added fruits or nuts, as these can be dangerous for cats.
The best type is Greek yogurt, which is high in protein and low in sugar. It also doesn’t contain much lactose.
Can Kittens Eat Yogurt?
Kittens may eat small amounts of yogurt, as long as it’s plain, without any added flavors or sweeteners. Always look at the ingredients list and make sure that the yogurt doesn’t contain any xylitol, a sweetener that may be toxic to cats (although it hasn’t been proven like it has been for dogs). Xylitol can be found in many store-bought yogurts, as well as other products such as gum and candy.
Final Thoughts: Can Cats Eat Yogurt?
Cats are carnivores, so they need plenty of protein in their diet. Can cats eat yogurt, then? Yes, in small amounts, Yogurt can be a great way to add some extra protein and probiotics to their diet without compromising taste. As long as you choose the right type (plain Greek is best), it can be a healthy treat.
Remember that your cat’s diet should be based mainly on meat. Although yogurt can be good for cats, don’t give them so much that they’ll neglect to eat their balanced cat food. Also, too much yogurt can give your cat an upset stomach, so be sure to only feed them a small amount (1–2 teaspoons) at a time. If you ever notice that your cat is intolerant or allergic to yogurt, discontinue feeding it to them and consult the veterinarian.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens If a Cat Eats Yogurt?
There are a few things that could happen if a cat eats yogurt. One is that the yogurt will give the cat an upset stomach. Another possibility is that the yogurt will improve their health by regulating their gut microbiota. Remember that the only safe yogurt for cats is plain and unsweetened.
Is Greek Yogurt OK for Cats?
Yes, Greek yogurt is OK for cats. It’s high in protein and calcium, which are both important nutrients for felines. But it’s only safe if it doesn’t contain any sugar, sweeteners, flavors, or other additives.
Why Do Cats Love Yogurt?
Cats often enjoy the taste of yogurt because it’s made of milk, and they can smell animal fats and proteins within it. Fortunately, it can be good for them, as it has a high level of calcium and contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help keep the gut healthy. Yogurt is also a relatively low-calorie food.
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