Why only in moderation for cats
Yoghurt is made by fermenting milk, so it has less lactose than milk, and some cats digest a little plain yoghurt without trouble. Some lactose remains, though, so in a sensitive cat it can cause diarrhoea.
Cats cannot taste sweetness, so sweetened or fruit yoghurt gives them nothing but sugar. Some yoghurts are sweetened with sweeteners, and yoghurts with chocolate or raisins are not suitable for a cat. A cat is a carnivore, so yoghurt can only be a small treat.
How to give it
- Choose plain yoghurt with no sugar, sweeteners or additions.
- Give only a little, for example let the cat lick some off your finger.
- The first time, give very little and watch for diarrhoea.
- Give it only now and then, as a treat.
What to watch out for
- Lactose can cause diarrhoea or vomiting.
- Sweetened yoghurt adds sugar and calories that can make a cat put on weight.
- Yoghurts with sweeteners, chocolate or raisins can contain substances that are harmful to a cat.
What to give instead
- Chicken Yes, plain cooked chicken without bones, skin or seasoning is one of the best treats you can give a cat. Safe
- Eggs Yes, a well-cooked egg, boiled or cooked without fat, is fine for a cat, but it is better not to give a raw egg. Safe
- Pumpkin Yes, plain cooked pumpkin without sugar or spices is harmless to cats and fine as a small treat. Safe
Looking for a treat?
The "Cat treats" category compares prices for 3,876 products across shops. It is a product category, not a recommendation of what to give.