Can Cats Eat Cottage Cheese? Benefits & Risks Explained (Answered 2023)

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Cats and cheese are a classic combination, but can your feline friend really enjoy the cheesy treat? If you’re wondering whether cats can eat cottage cheese – you’ve come to the right place.

But what about risks? In this article, we will explore all aspects related to giving your cat cottage cheese and provide answers regarding its safety as well as potential health benefits.

How Does Cottage Cheese Have Less Lactose?

You may have heard that cottage cheese has less lactose than other cheeses, but what does this mean for cats and their digestive health? Cottage cheese is one of the low-lactose options available to cats who suffer from lactose intolerance.

Many dairy alternatives, such as goat’s milk, contain sufficient amounts of the lactase enzyme present so that a small complementary piece can be added to meals without causing any problems with digestion.

Cottage cheese contains high levels of amino acids, which can offer some nutritional benefits for cats if given in moderation.

However, it’s important to remember that cottage cheese should only ever be used as an occasional snack or treat and not a primary protein source. Too much could lead to gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea due to overconsumption of fat content, in particular.

In addition, because many types are high in sodium, they should never make up more than 10% of the daily calorie allotment, even when taken infrequently.

Is Cottage Cheese Good for Cats to Eat?

Though cottage cheese can provide cats with some nutritional benefits if given in moderation, it should only be used as a treat and not as a primary source of protein due to its high fat and sodium content.

Cottage cheese is often recommended for cats that have dairy allergies or lactose intolerance because it contains less lactose than other cheeses. However, giving your cat too much could lead to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea.

It’s important to remember that no more than 8-10% of the pet’s daily calorie allotment should come from treats like cheese, so even when given infrequently you must take care not to overfeed your feline friend! Additionally, vegan versions are available which contain lower salt contents, but these are still unsuitable substitutes for traditional cat food diets.

Feeding cats small pieces of cottage cheese occasionally can help give them additional nutrition, but Tufts University advises it shouldn’t make up any more than 10% of their total diet intake on a regular basis in order to maximize health benefits while avoiding risks associated with consuming too much dairy products.

Is It Safe for Pregnant Cats to Eat Cottage Cheese?

It’s best to avoid feeding cottage cheese to pregnant cats, as the high fat and sodium content can be detrimental to their health. Cottage cheese contains lactose, which can cause digestive issues in cats that are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy.

Additionally, it is not an ideal source of nutrients for fetal development due to its low levels of milk intake and lack of animal-based proteins necessary for cat growth and maintenance during pregnancy.

Although cottage cheese may provide some additional nutrition if given in small amounts occasionally, it should never replace other nutrient sources such as kibble or wet food that are specifically formulated with vitamins needed by growing kittens during the nursing period.

Eligible vet bills incurred from excessive consumption could potentially outweigh any benefits gained from occasional treats like this one! Therefore, keep your expecting feline away from high levels of salt contained within certain cheeses until after she gives birth safely.