By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Cottage cheese has a reputation as a mild, high-protein food, and some people wonder whether it might be a gentle treat for a cat. A small lick will not poison your cat. But cottage cheese is still dairy, and dairy often gives cats an upset tummy.
Key takeaways
- Cottage cheese is not toxic to cats, but it is not recommended as a regular treat.
- The ASPCA explains that pets lack significant amounts of lactase, the enzyme that digests milk sugar, so dairy can cause diarrhoea.
- Cornell notes many cats are lactose intolerant, and the RSPCA advises against giving cats milk.
- Cottage cheese contains added salt and some flavoured varieties contain chives, onion or garlic.
- If your cat is unwell, do not use cottage cheese as a home remedy. Talk with your vet.
- Related reading: vomiting and diarrhoea in cats, food allergies in cats.
Why dairy does not suit most cats
The ASPCA notes that because pets do not have significant amounts of lactase, milk and other dairy-based products can cause diarrhoea or other digestive upset. Cornell's feeding guide says milk is not recommended because many cats are lactose intolerant. The RSPCA's feeding advice also says not to provide milk.
Cottage cheese still contains lactose, so a cat that reacts to milk may react to it too. The protein in cottage cheese is not a reason to add it, since a complete and balanced cat food already supplies what your cat needs.
Salt and flavours
Plain cottage cheese contains added salt. A small taste is not a salt poisoning risk, but there is no benefit to extra salt for a cat. Flavoured varieties can contain chives, onion or garlic. Merck Veterinary Manual notes that cats are the most susceptible species to poisoning from onions, garlic and their relatives, so avoid any flavoured cottage cheese or dips.
Calories add up
Cornell recommends that treats make up no more than 10 to 15 percent of a cat's daily calories, and notes that obesity is the most common nutritional disorder in cats. Spoonfuls of cheese can use up that allowance fast.
Signs to watch for
After a taste of cottage cheese, watch for:
- diarrhoea or soft, smelly stools
- gassiness or a gurgling tummy
- vomiting
- reduced appetite
When it is an emergency
Plain cottage cheese is rarely an emergency. Call your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 if your cat:
- ate a flavoured cottage cheese or dip with onion, chives or garlic
- has diarrhoea for more than a day, or any blood in the stool
- vomits repeatedly, seems lethargic or stops eating
- is a kitten, a senior or has a known health condition and develops diarrhoea
Do not make your cat vomit at home.
How vets help
For a mild dairy upset, your vet may suggest monitoring and keeping fresh water available. If diarrhoea continues, your vet may examine your cat, check hydration and recommend a diet suited to the problem. If onion or garlic was involved, blood tests over the following days may be advised.
Prevention and better treats
- Keep dairy foods covered and out of reach.
- Do not use cottage cheese to hide medication unless your vet says it is suitable.
- Offer small pieces of plain cooked chicken or a commercial cat treat instead.
- Provide fresh water at all times. Cats do not need milk.
FAQ
Is cottage cheese better for cats than milk?
It still contains lactose and salt. Neither is recommended for cats.
Can I give cottage cheese to a cat with diarrhoea?
Please do not. Dairy can make diarrhoea worse. Call your vet for advice on what to feed.
What about lactose-free cottage cheese?
It may be easier on the gut, but it still adds salt, fat and calories. A cat treat is a better choice.
My kitten loves dairy. Is it OK for kittens?
Kittens should have their mother's milk or a kitten milk replacer if needed, then a complete kitten food. Ask your vet before giving any dairy.
Talk with a vet
If your cat has a sensitive stomach or keeps raiding the fridge, a Dial A Vet veterinarian can help. Book a Dial A Vet consult.
References
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Feeding Your Cat.
- RSPCA Knowledgebase. What should I feed my cat?.
- Merck Veterinary Manual. Garlic and Onion (Allium spp) Toxicosis in Animals.
- Cornell Feline Health Center. Obesity.
- Animal Poisons Helpline (Australia, 1300 869 738). Animal Poisons Helpline | 24/7 Pet Poisoning Advice.
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency animal hospital.