Can cats eat cottage cheese?

Better not

Cottage cheese is a dairy product that contains lactose; many cats are lactose-intolerant and can develop digestive problems from dairy (Cornell). Cats Protection says no type of cheese is good for cats.

Good to know: Cats Protection also advises against lactose-free and plant-based cheese: many dairy alternatives contain ingredients that could be toxic to cats.

Better choices, for example

Bananas: Yes, in small amounts
Strawberries: Yes, in small amounts
Cucumbers: Yes, in small amounts
Honeydew melon: Yes, in small amounts

Questions

Can dogs eat cottage cheese?

Yes, but only a little. AKC recommends low-fat cheeses such as cottage cheese for dogs – it’s lower in fat, sodium and lactose than other cheeses. Some dogs still don’t tolerate dairy well and get diarrhea (ASPCA).

Sources

Cornell Feline Health Center – Feeding Your Cat
Cats Protection – Can cats eat cheese?
Cats Protection – Are cats lactose intolerant?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control – People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets
Merck Veterinary Manual (Cat Owner Version) – Proper Nutrition for Cats

Last checked: October 2026

Butter: Better not
Cheese: Better not
Eggs: Only a little
Milk: Better not
Yogurt: Better not
Alcohol: Toxic
Almonds: Better not
Amaryllis: Toxic

What can cats eat?