dairy · Caution

Can cats eat yogurt?

A small amount of plain yogurt may be okay. Many cats are lactose intolerant as adults, so dairy can cause stomach upset, though yogurt's live cultures make it easier to tolerate than milk. Offer only plain, unsweetened yogurt in tiny amounts, and never flavored or sweetened kinds.

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Caution — plain, unsweetened, small amountsAmount, form, or frequency matters

Can cats eat yogurt?

A small amount of plain yogurt may be okay. Many cats are lactose intolerant as adults, so dairy can cause stomach upset, though yogurt's live cultures make it easier to tolerate than milk. Offer only plain, unsweetened yogurt in tiny amounts, and never flavored or sweetened kinds.

Source-linked record · Last reviewed July 17, 2026 · Not veterinary advice

Why this answer

Adult cats produce little lactase, the enzyme that digests the milk sugar lactose, so dairy often causes diarrhea and gas. Yogurt is somewhat better tolerated because its cultures pre-digest some lactose, but it is still dairy and still fatty. Sweetened and flavored yogurts add sugar and sometimes xylitol, an artificial sweetener dangerous to pets, so only plain unsweetened yogurt in small amounts is appropriate.

Watch for

  • Diarrhea or loose stool
  • Gas or bloating
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach discomfort

How much is okay

A teaspoon of plain, unsweetened yogurt once in a while, watching for digestive upset; stop if it causes loose stool.

Serve it safely

  • Choose plain, unsweetened, full- or low-fat yogurt with no added flavors.
  • Never offer sweetened or 'light' yogurt, which may contain xylitol.
  • Start with a tiny taste to see how your cat's stomach responds.
Sources and evidence notes (3)
  1. People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center — Multi-species veterinary toxicology list covering alcohol, chocolate, caffeine, citrus, coconut, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts, milk and dairy, nuts, onions, garlic and chives, raw meat and eggs, salty snacks, xylitol, and yeast dough.
  2. Feeding Your Cat Cornell Feline Health Center, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine — Feline nutrition fundamentals: cats are obligate carnivores; complete balanced cat food should be the diet base; treats should stay a small share of daily calories.
  3. Paws Off Xylitol; It's Dangerous for Dogs U.S. Food and Drug Administration — Regulator warning on xylitol in sugar-free gum, candy, and peanut butter; documents severe hypoglycemia and liver injury in dogs, supporting a keep-away rule for all pets.

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