🐾 PawSafe Check

Is Cheese Toxic to Pets?

Yes — cheese is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — cheese is mildly toxic to dogs.

CatsMildly toxicIs cheese toxic to cats? →DogsMildly toxicIs cheese toxic to dogs? →

PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.

Toxic compound
Lactose and fat
Toxic parts
Rich or large portions
Also known as
cheddar

Symptoms

Cats (mildly toxic)

  • Mild vomiting
  • Soft stool or diarrhea

Dogs (mildly toxic)

  • Mild vomiting
  • Soft stool or diarrhea

What to do

If your cat ate cheese

  • Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
  • Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
  • Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.

If your dog ate cheese

  • Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
  • Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
  • Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.

Good to know

Small cubes of plain cheese are a common treat, but too much can cause diarrhea, and fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis in dogs.

Is your pet covered for emergency vet bills?

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Frequently asked questions

Is cheese toxic to cats?

Yes — cheese is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include mild vomiting, soft stool or diarrhea.

Is cheese toxic to dogs?

Yes — cheese is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include mild vomiting, soft stool or diarrhea.

Which parts of cheese are toxic?

Rich or large portions.

What makes cheese toxic?

Lactose and fat.

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