Yes, cats can eat yogurt providing it’s plain and unsweetened. Although it’s true that many cats are lactose intolerant, the lactose that yogurt contains is actually easier for cats to break down, as the live bacteria within the yogurt can help your cat to break it down.
Can Cats Eat Yogurt?
The short answer is: Maybe. Many animals do not possess lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose. Due to this, dairy-based products can cause stomach issues in both dogs and cats. Interestingly, when cats are young they do process lactose while they are drinking their mother’s milk, but as they get older that process is not necessary anymore and they lose the lactase over time.
Because yogurt has a lower lactose count, cats can theoretically have a lick or two, but it isn’t recommended. The most common symptoms of lactose intolerance include:
- diarrhea
- vomiting
- loss of appetite and weight
- abdominal pain and discomfort
- increased scratching
- lethargy
Nonetheless, some cats are perfectly able to handle dairy products. According to experts, you should give your cat a small amount of lactose to test their level of intolerance and see if they react within the day. Giving them a dairy treat once in a while is acceptable if they show no symptoms within a day, but it’s still not advised to do so frequently. It just isn’t necessary for cats’ natural diet.
Do cats like yogurt?
Generally speaking, yes! Cats like yogurt. This is a result of their attraction to the dairy product’s protein and fats, which they can smell.
When cats are weaned, usually at 4 weeks, they become lactose intolerant, but they are still drawn to most dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese. Similar to how everyone has a friend who is lactose intolerant but nevertheless enjoys pizza or ice cream, a persistent pet They might feel a little off if they consume too much lactose, but thankfully, yogurt ferments so very little lactose is left over.
Yogurt, though, is intolerable for certain cats and will upset their stomach. Yogurt should not be offered to your cat if it causes upset stomach.
Health benefits of yogurt for cats
Yogurt has health benefits for many people, but it also has benefits for your cat! Meow-stly because of the protein, vitamins, and minerals it contains, as well as the good bacteria it contains for your cat’s digestive system.
Cats naturally have a craving for foods high in protein because it gives them energy and keeps them lean. In terms of calories consumed daily, they require at least two grams of protein per pound of their ideal body weight—a higher requirement than that of dogs. With approximately 9 grams of protein in each 6 ounce portion, yogurt can provide your feline friend with a substantial protein boost. Naturally, this pales in comparison to meat and fish, which ought to make up the majority of a person’s diet.
Yogurt’s probiotics can aid your cat’s digestion, just as they do for people. Sometimes the probiotics can help with symptoms like diarrhea, cramping in the stomach, and gas. Remember that while yogurt has certain advantages, it’s not the best way to incorporate probiotics into your cat’s diet. If your cat needs a probiotic supplement, make sure to discuss this with your veterinarian. In addition to helping your cat avoid gum disease and whiten their Cheshire smile, those beneficial bacteria may also help with hairballs.
Many vitamins and minerals, including a lot of calcium for strong bones, teeth, and muscles, are found in yogurt. Vitamins C, B2, B12, D, and potassium are also abundant in it. Yogurt’s magnesium content aids in your cat’s blood pressure management and nutrient absorption.
FAQ
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