Can Cats Eat Cheese?
Cats can eat tiny amounts of cheese, but most are lactose intolerant and may get an upset stomach. Cheese should only be an occasional treat, and not part of a cat’s regular diet. If your cat enjoys the flavour, choose cat foods made with real meat and a small amount of cheese, designed to be easier to digest.
Applaws UK
01/06/2026
It’s a question many cat owners ask, especially when a curious nose drifts towards the fridge.
So, can cats eat cheese? The short answer is: yes, some cats can enjoy a tiny amount of cheese, but many don’t digest dairy well and it’s not something they need in their diet.
Here’s a simple, cat‑first guide to understanding cheese and your cat.
Is Cheese Safe for Cats?
Cheese isn’t toxic to cats. But most adult cats are actually lactose intolerant, meaning their digestive system no longer processes dairy efficiently.
Because of this, even a small bite of cheese can sometimes lead to:
- Mild stomach upset
- Diarrhoea
- Gas
- Bloating
- Soft stools
Reactions vary from cat to cat, but it’s something to be aware of before offering cheese as a treat.
Why Do Cats Like Cheese?
Cheese is rich in fat, protein and salt, three things that naturally catch a cat’s attention. The smell is appealing, and the texture is interesting to many cats. However, cats are obligate carnivores. This means their bodies are designed to thrive on meat protein, not dairy. So, while cheese may tempt them, it doesn’t offer the complete nutrition they actually need.
Can Cats Eat Cheese Regularly?
In short: no.
Cheese should only ever be given:
- Occasionally
- In very small amounts
- To cats who tolerate dairy without digestive upset
Too much cheese can contribute to weight gain, stomach issues or food‑related sensitivities. If your cat already has a delicate digestive system, it’s best avoided altogether.
A Better Way to Offer Cheese to Cats
If your cat genuinely enjoys the flavour of cheese, there are gentler ways to offer it and they don’t involve sharing your cheese board.
Applaws recipes like:
include a tiny amount of cheese, balanced within a natural, high‑protein meal made from real meat
This gives your cat the familiar taste they enjoy, in a way that’s kinder to their digestion and aligned with their natural diet. No unnecessary fillers. No artificial colours. Just simple, real ingredients.
If you want to treat your cat, it’s kinder to choose foods designed with their natural needs in mind. That way, they get something tasty, simple and satisfying, while staying happy and healthy.