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Can Cats Drink Yogurt? Effects on Felines


Generally, it’s not advisable to give cats yogurt. I have a cat at home, and during a certain period, I fed it yogurt. Coincidentally, it suffered from diarrhea during that time. Cat owners are aware that cats shouldn’t consume dairy products, as doing so will likely cause diarrhea. If owners disregard this and feed their cats dairy, the resulting diarrhea is certainly problematic.
Let me introduce whether cats can consume dairy products, the symptoms that may occur, and other foods that can have worse effects on cats.
Some netizens argue that cats shouldn’t be given yogurt because of its gut – stimulating effect. Kittens may develop diarrhea, which poses a serious threat to their health.
Other netizens believe that it’s best not to give cats milk or yogurt, as feline and human body structures differ significantly. Foods suitable for humans may not be suitable for cats.
However, some netizens think that since yogurt contains broken – down lactose, even lactose – intolerant cats can consume it without issues. Indeed, some cats may drink a little yogurt without apparent problems. But it’s important to note that individual cats have different constitutions. Scientifically, it’s not recommended to feed cats yogurt casually. However, if a cat has constipation, trying a small amount of yogurt should be fine.
Feline nutritionists indicate that cats can obtain the necessary moisture and some carbohydrate – derived calories from other foods. But cats cannot rely solely on milk to survive! Most cats (especially kittens) have lactose intolerance. They lack lactase and thus cannot digest lactose in milk. Consequently, they may experience soft stools or diarrhea within hours of consuming milk or yogurt. Diarrhea can prevent the intestines from adequately absorbing water and nutrients. If your cat shows such symptoms, stop feeding it milk or yogurt immediately.
Chocolate contains theobromine, a central nervous system stimulant. Depending on the amount of theobromine, the quantity consumed, and the pet’s weight, chocolate poisoning in cats can lead to various symptoms:
  1. Loss of appetite, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea.
  2. Frequent urination due to theobromine’s diuretic effect, which can serve as a diagnostic indicator.
  3. Central nervous system excitation, restlessness, tremors, unsteady gait, seizures, and in severe cases, coma.
  4. Increased heart rate, rapid breathing, irregular heartbeat, and in severe cases, heart failure and death.
Symptoms usually occur within 2 – 4 hours of ingestion. In severe cases, death can happen within 1 – 2 days. Even small amounts consumed over several days can accumulate in the body. Theobromine is not easily excreted, potentially causing chronic heart failure.
If you love your cat, carefully select its food. Not all foods you consider delicious are safe for pets. Well – intentioned acts of sharing food can inadvertently harm your cat. Feed your cat specialized pet foods like kibble or canned food. If giving treats, choose from the many pet – specific options available.
Also, remember not to give cats or dogs tea, coffee, or foods containing tea or caffeine. Caffeine in coffee, theophylline in tea, and theobromine in chocolate all contain methylxanthines, which can cause poisoning in pets.

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