Can Cats Eat Yogurt? Vet-Approved Safety Guide for 2026

Can Cats Eat Yogurt?

If you’ve ever opened a cup of yogurt and found your cat sniffing around, you might wonder: Can cats eat yogurt safely?
The short answer is: Yes, cats can eat a small amount of plain yogurt — but only certain types, and only in moderation.

While yogurt isn’t toxic to cats, most cats are lactose intolerant, which means dairy products can upset their stomach. Surprisingly, yogurt is easier for many cats to digest than milk — but it still isn’t a necessary or daily treat.

In this article, we’ll break down the benefits, risks, best types of yogurt, safe serving sizes, and questions cat owners commonly ask.

Also Read: Can Cats Eat Cheese? Vet-Approved Safety Guide for 2026

Do Cats Like Yogurt?

Some cats absolutely love yogurt.
Why?
Not because they enjoy the sweetness — cats cannot taste sweet flavors. Instead, they’re attracted to:

• The creamy texture
• The smell of fats and proteins
• Their natural curiosity

But just because they like it does not mean they should eat it regularly.

Is Yogurt Safe for Cats?

Yogurt can be safe for cats only if it’s:

• Plain
• Unsweetened
• Unflavored
• No added fruits
• No artificial sweeteners
• No chocolate or vanilla

The safest options are:

• Plain Greek yogurt
• Plain natural curd
• Unsweetened probiotic yogurt

These have lower lactose and higher digestion-friendly bacteria.

Why Most Dairy Upsets Cats — But Yogurt May Not?

Most adult cats lack lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose in milk.
This is why cow’s milk gives many cats:

• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Vomiting
• Stomach discomfort

But yogurt is a little different.

Why is yogurt easier for some cats to digest?

• Yogurt contains live cultures (probiotics) that help break down lactose.
• Greek yogurt has less lactose than regular milk.
• The fermentation process reduces lactose further.

Still — this doesn’t mean yogurt is risk-free for all cats.

Benefits of Yogurt for Cats

Yogurt isn’t necessary for a cat’s nutrition, but small amounts may offer a few benefits.

1. Supports Healthy Digestion

The probiotics in yogurt can help:

• Improve gut balance
• Support immunity
• Reduce mild stomach discomfort

However, this should not replace real veterinary probiotic supplements.

2. Low-Calorie Treat

A small spoon of yogurt is lower in calories than many commercial treats.

3. Good for Hydration

Yogurt contains moisture, which supports hydration — especially for cats who don’t drink much water.

4. Can Help With Mild Constipation

In tiny amounts, yogurt may help soften stool due to its probiotic nature.

Again — this is not a cure. Persistent constipation needs a vet.

Risks of Feeding Yogurt to Cats

Even though yogurt is safer than milk, there are still risks.

1. Lactose Intolerance

Many cats still struggle with dairy, even yogurt.
Signs include:

• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Vomiting
• Smelly stools
• Stomach rumbling

If this happens, stop yogurt immediately.

2. Flavored Yogurt Is Dangerous

Avoid yogurts with:

• Sugar
• Artificial sweeteners
• Strawberry flavor
• Mango flavor
• Chocolate flavor (toxic)
• Vanilla
• Honey

Never feed flavored yogurt.

3. Xylitol Is Extremely Toxic

Some “diet” yogurts contain xylitol, a sweetener that can be fatal to cats.

4. Too Much Can Cause Obesity

Yogurt contains fat and calories — regular feeding can cause weight gain.

How Much Yogurt Can Cats Eat?

Keep yogurt as an occasional treat, not a daily habit.

Safe serving size:

• ½ teaspoon for small cats
• 1 teaspoon for adult cats
• Once or twice a week, maximum

Cats have tiny stomachs; even small amounts go a long way.

What’s unsafe?

• A full spoon
• Daily feeding
• Yogurt mixed with sweet fruits
• Yogurt with honey
• Yogurt with nuts or raisins (raisins are toxic)

Moderation is key.

Best Types of Yogurt for Cats

Choose:

1. Plain Greek Yogurt

• Thick
• Low lactose
• High protein

2. Plain Natural Yogurt / Curd

• No sugar
• Simple ingredients

3. Unsweetened Probiotic Yogurt

• Contains helpful bacteria
• Good for digestion in small amounts

Check the ingredient label.
It should ideally contain just:

• Milk
• Active cultures

Nothing else

Worst Types of Yogurt for Cats

Avoid these completely:

• Fruit yogurt
• Chocolate yogurt
• Vanilla yogurt
• Strawberry yogurt
• Sweetened yogurt
• Flavored Greek yogurt
• Sugar-free yogurt (contains artificial sweeteners)
• Frozen yogurt with toppings

These contain harmful additives.

How to Serve Yogurt Safely?

Here’s the best way to introduce yogurt to your cat:

Step 1: Choose plain yogurt

No sugar, no flavors, no additives.

Step 2: Start with a tiny amount,

½ teaspoon is enough.

Step 3: Mix with food (optional)

Some cats prefer yogurt blended into wet food.

Step 4: Watch for reactions

Monitor for:

• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Vomiting
• Excessive licking of lips (nausea)

If any symptoms appear, discontinue immediately

Can Kittens Eat Yogurt?

Better to avoid it.

Kittens have sensitive stomachs and should only consume:

• Their mother’s milk
• Kitten formula
• Kitten food

Yogurt can upset their gut easily.

Can Yogurt Help Sick Cats?

Some people think yogurt:

• Helps diarrhea
• Boosts immunity
• Fixes stomach issues

While probiotics can help, yogurt alone is not a medical treatment.
If your cat has persistent digestive problems, see a vet.

Healthy Alternatives to Yogurt

If you want safe treat options, choose:

• Cooked chicken
• Plain boiled egg (small amount)
• Tuna flakes (unsalted)
• Pumpkin puree
• Commercial cat treats
• Vet-approved probiotic packets

These are healthier and biologically appropriate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Can Cats Eat Yogurt?

Yes — cats can eat small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt, and many tolerate it better than milk. Yogurt offers probiotics, hydration, and mild digestive benefits.

But:

• Most flavored yogurts are unsafe
• Too much yogurt can upset the stomach
• Many cats are lactose intolerant
• Yogurt is not necessary in a cat’s diet

Use yogurt as a rare treat — never a daily food.