Dairy
Can dogs and cats eat cottage cheese?
Short answer on cottage cheese: safe for both dogs and cats. See what to watch for and the veterinary sources behind each answer.
One food, two pets
What changes between dogs and cats?
Dogs and cats both have a safe verdict.
The label matches, but the two answers are not interchangeable. Check the bottom line, signs to watch, and serving guidance for your pet below.
- Bottom line differs
- Signs to watch differs
- Serving guidance differs
Cottage cheese safety for dogs
Plain, low-fat cottage cheese is one of the most vet-recommended dairy foods for dogs and is easy to digest in moderation.
Watch for
- Diarrhea, gas, or vomiting in dogs with lactose intolerance
Safe serving: Plain, unsweetened, unseasoned cottage cheese, a small spoonful appropriate to the dog's size, given occasionally
Cottage cheese safety for cats
Cottage cheese is comparatively low in lactose and fat, making it one of the more cat-friendly dairy options in small, occasional amounts.
Watch for
- Loose stool or GI upset in cats with dairy sensitivity
Safe serving: Plain, unseasoned cottage cheese, a small amount once or twice a week, avoided in cats with known dairy sensitivity, pancreatitis, or kidney disease
Questions owners ask about cottage cheese
Can dogs eat cottage cheese?
Plain, low-fat cottage cheese is one of the most vet-recommended dairy foods for dogs and is easy to digest in moderation.
How much cottage cheese can I give my dog?
Plain, unsweetened, unseasoned cottage cheese, a small spoonful appropriate to the dog's size, given occasionally. Introduce any new food gradually and watch for stomach upset.
What symptoms should I watch for with cottage cheese and dogs?
Diarrhea, gas, or vomiting in dogs with lactose intolerance. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
Can cats eat cottage cheese?
Cottage cheese is comparatively low in lactose and fat, making it one of the more cat-friendly dairy options in small, occasional amounts.
How much cottage cheese can I give my cat?
Plain, unseasoned cottage cheese, a small amount once or twice a week, avoided in cats with known dairy sensitivity, pancreatitis, or kidney disease. Introduce any new food gradually and watch for stomach upset.
What symptoms should I watch for with cottage cheese and cats?
Loose stool or GI upset in cats with dairy sensitivity. 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.