Can Cats Eat Yogurt?

Sometimes — with care

A small spoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt is usually tolerated and lower in lactose than milk — but it’s a treat, not a need, and never give yogurt sweetened with xylitol.

The details: why this verdict

Plain yogurt is interesting for cats because the fermentation reduces its lactose, so many lactose-sensitive cats handle a little yogurt better than they handle milk. It offers some protein and calcium and live cultures. But cats gain little nutritionally from dairy, and the usual cautions apply: keep portions tiny, avoid flavoured or sweetened yogurts (sugar, and possibly xylitol, which is dangerous), and stop if it causes loose stools.

How much is okay?

No more than a teaspoon of plain natural or Greek yogurt occasionally. Full-fat plain with no additives is best. If your cat is diabetic, overweight or gets diarrhoea from dairy, skip it. It can be a handy way to give a tiny bit of medication.

Symptoms to watch for

Safer alternatives

For a special treat, freeze-dried meat or a little plain chicken suits cats better. See cheese and milk.

General information, not veterinary advice. If your pet has eaten something potentially harmful or shows symptoms, contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately. Full disclaimer.