Cheddar is one of the most popular types of cheese thanks to its creamy, crumbly texture and sharp flavour. But can your cat eat it? Before giving your cat a chunk of cheddar cheese, read on to find out if it's a safe treat for your feline friend.
Can cats eat cheddar cheese?
Technically, cats can eat small amounts of cheddar cheese. However, that doesn't mean they should, especially as a regular part of their diet. While cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet primarily consists of meat, they can handle small quantities of certain dairy products. However, most cats are lactose intolerant and cheddar cheese contains lactose, which can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhoea and stomach upset. And as obligate carnivores, cats are designed to digest and process meat, not dairy.
Cheddar cheese also has a high fat content and a lot of salt, which aren't suitable for cats, especially in large amounts. Too much fat can contribute to weight gain, while excessive salt can lead to electrolyte imbalances and other health problems. It's important to consider that while a tiny piece of cheddar might be a treat for your cat, it shouldn't become a regular part of their diet.
My cat ate cheddar cheese; what should I do?
If your cat ate cheddar cheese, keep a close eye on them for the next 24 hours or so for any signs of discomfort such as vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy. Most cats can handle a small amount without issues, but if symptoms occur or persist, contact your vet for advice. Make sure your cat has access to plenty of fresh water. In the future, avoid giving your cat cheese to prevent potential digestive problems. Focus on providing foods and treats designed for cats.
Why do cats love cheese?
Who doesn't love cheese? The combination of fat, salt and creamy texture makes it hard for humans and cats to resist. As carnivores, cats' taste buds are wired to detect meaty, fatty flavours, which often draws them to cheese, regardless of whether it's good or bad for them. Cats are also naturally very curious animals and may want to investigate different human foods due to their inquisitive nature.
What cheese is safe for cats?
If you want to feed your cat cheese, hard cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan and Swiss are the safest options for your feline friend. However, moderation is important, as even small amounts can cause your cat to have an upset stomach. Avoid giving your cat cheeses with added ingredients such as garlic, onion or a lot of salt, as these can be toxic to felines. Soft cheeses like mozzarella, cottage cheese and cream cheese are typically higher in lactose, so they should also be avoided. Never offer brie, camembert or other cheeses made with raw milk to your cat, as they can pose significant health risks.
Alternatives to cheese as treats for cats
If you're looking for alternative treats that are safer and more suitable for cats, consider the following tasty options:
• Plain, cooked chicken is a protein-rich treat that most cats enjoy
• Cooked eggs are another source of high-quality protein that can be fed to cats in moderation
• Small amounts of cooked fish can be a special treat for some cats, but be cautious with the frequency due to potential mercury content
• There are many commercially available treats formulated specifically for cats, ensuring they meet their nutritional requirements without risking their health
While a tiny piece of cheddar cheese probably won't harm your cat, avoiding giving them cheese altogether is best. Their digestive systems are designed for a meat-based diet and cheese offers little nutritional value. Stick to cat-approved treats and high-quality cat food to keep your feline friend happy and healthy.
