Cheese

I just recently read that cheese is not good for cats, I have been feeding my older cat a tiny bite every now and then as she loves it.  Sure hope I have not harmed her in any way.  Does anyone know why it is not good for them?

It's OK to give it to her as a treat occasionally.

The issue with cheese is that most (adult) cats are lactose intolerant. The only other things, to my knowledge, are dependent on the cheese - it would be the coloring and additives that aren't good for her, just the same as they're not good for us. But I like my highly processed Kraft "Deli deluxe "sharp cheddar" cheese. :lol3: I THINK it actually has cheese in it...

I don't think a little bit will hurt them. I think why they say not to feed it is because lots of cat's are allergic to dairy products. I'm not sure though. I hope someone else will chime in with more knowledge. 

A little cheese now and then will not harm your cat. It's about the same as giving them some human canned tuna. A treat every now and then is okay. If it's just now and then :nod:

My cats eat cheese frequently and without issues, also perhaps our cheese is more natural here with no colours etc. as many products outside the US are. 

I don't actually know any lactose intolerant cats, most I know feed cheese several times a week along with cream without issue. Many will also drink cows milk without problems. 

LDG said:

The issue with cheese is that most (adult) cats are lactose intolerant.

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As I understand it, this lactose is worst in milk as such.  Processed milk products, like cheese, yoghurt, and similiar, have less of lactose.  Or in any case, is easier for cats.

Although Im not sure it is lactose alone. I suspect it is something with modern treatment of milk which makes milk less good for cats.  I suspect it is something with the proteines.

Unprocessed raw cow milk seems to be easier for them, that is why I think it is something with pasteurizing / treatment..

Also, goat milk goes excellently for both adult cats and kittens AND people with stomach sensitive for cow milk.  And goat milk has roughly the same contain of lactose as cow milk...

So, all warn for the lactose, but I suspect it is more/also something with the proteines, esp after they got heated and pasteurized.

But to answer TS question:  some cheese now and then is not dangerous, perhaps even good. And if wished, a good extra source of calcium, if extra calcium is needed.

Judy, where and what did you read cheese is harmful for cats??