can cats eat yogurt !

 

Cat owners are too familiar with the tale. Before you can even reach for your spoon as you peel open a Chobani container, your cat is already attempting to get a taste. Can cats eat yogurt even though we know they adore it? Yes, certain yogurt varieties are safe for cats. However, it doesn't follow that they should incorporate it into their diets on a regular basis. Always read the nutritional information before feeding your cat a treat.

What's the deal with yogurt and cats?

You might believe that yogurt is healthy for your cat because it contains significant amounts of protein, calcium, vitamins B2 and B12, and probiotics. These advantages, however, aren't sufficient to convince you to regularly add yogurt to your cat's diet given that it currently consumes a nutritious, balanced diet of veterinarian-recommended cat food.

Veterinarian toxicologist Renee Schmid, DVM, DABVT, DABT, is employed by Pet Poison Helpline. Yogurt is not the best treat for all cats, she continues, even though cats can eat it.

Since most cats are lactose intolerant, dairy products generally can disturb their digestive systems, primarily resulting in loose stools and vomiting, according to Schmid. Yogurt wouldn't be at the top of the list of the best foods to feed a cat as a result.

GI distress, such as diarrhea or vomiting, is the most typical indication of lactose intolerance. Your cat may be lactose intolerant if any of these symptoms occur within 8 to 12 hours of consuming dairy, according to Schmid.

Yogurt is a significant source of probiotics, or friendly bacteria, for humans, which help with digestion. According to Schmid, our pets normally don't require those same germs unless they are experiencing GI issues. Put down the yogurt spoon and visit the vet instead if your cat's digestive system is acting strangely. Your cat's veterinarian will be able to pinpoint the source of her digestive problems and may even suggest cat-safe probiotics to soothe her tummy.

What Types of Yogurt Are Safe for Cats?

The majority of basic, unsweetened yogurts are okay for cats to eat if they don't have any dairy sensitivity. Make sure there are no other components, though, that could damage your cat before giving it a nibble. Low-calorie and flavored yogurts should generally be avoided since they frequently contain additional hazardous substances that you should keep your cat away from. These consist of:

• Grapes or raisins with Xylitol
• Chocolate
• tangerine fruits (lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, etc.)
• Coconu

Can Cats Eat a Lot of Yogurt?

If your cat doesn't have an adverse reaction to dairy, sharing no more than one tablespoon of yogurt is a safe treat. Treats typically shouldn't make up more than 10% of your cat's daily caloric intake. But Schmid notes that "it is better to give them a cat specific reward and just avoid dairy products entirely due to the high occurrence of lactose sensitivity in cats."

The bulk of your cat's required nutrients should already be provided by the veterinarian-recommended cat food she eats, which is part of a healthy, balanced diet. While the occasional serving of yogurt is unlikely to cause harm to your cat, homemade or cat treats recommended by your veterinarian will allow your cat to munch without any of the potentially messy problems associated with dairy.