Dairy
Can dogs and cats eat cheese?
Short answer on cheese: safe for dogs, safe only with care for cats. See what to watch for and the veterinary sources behind each answer.
One food, two pets
What changes between dogs and cats?
The verdict changes by species: safe for dogs and caution for cats.
The two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line, named hazard, signs to watch, and serving guidance for your pet below.
- Safety label differs
- Bottom line differs
- Named hazard differs
- Signs to watch differs
- Serving guidance differs
Cheese safety for dogs
Plain, low-fat cheese in small amounts is generally safe for dogs, though lactose intolerance and high fat/calorie content mean it should stay an occasional treat.
Watch for
- Diarrhea, gas, or vomiting in dogs with lactose intolerance
Safe serving: Small amounts of plain, low-fat cheese such as mozzarella or cottage cheese, free of garlic, onion, or other seasonings, used sparingly
Cheese safety for cats
Many cats have significant lactose intolerance, and even small amounts of cheese can cause digestive upset, so it should only be offered sparingly and only if tolerated.
Toxic principle: Lactose intolerance common in adult cats
Watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Gas
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Questions owners ask about cheese
Can dogs eat cheese?
Plain, low-fat cheese in small amounts is generally safe for dogs, though lactose intolerance and high fat/calorie content mean it should stay an occasional treat.
How much cheese can I give my dog?
Small amounts of plain, low-fat cheese such as mozzarella or cottage cheese, free of garlic, onion, or other seasonings, used sparingly. Introduce any new food gradually and watch for stomach upset.
What symptoms should I watch for with cheese and dogs?
Diarrhea, gas, or vomiting in dogs with lactose intolerance. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
Can cats eat cheese?
Many cats have significant lactose intolerance, and even small amounts of cheese can cause digestive upset, so it should only be offered sparingly and only if tolerated.
Is cheese safe for every cat?
Not necessarily. Many cats have significant lactose intolerance, and even small amounts of cheese can cause digestive upset, so it should only be offered sparingly and only if tolerated. Ask your veterinarian first if your cat has an existing health condition or you are unsure.
What symptoms should I watch for with cheese and cats?
Vomiting, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Gas. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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Read our methodology for how every verdict is sourced and reviewed.