Cats can eat yogurt, but they should not eat yogurt with honey.
Yogurt is a dairy product that contains beneficial bacteria that can help with digestion and immunity.
However, honey is too rich in sugar and calories for cats, and it may cause digestive upset or weight gain.
Honey isn’t needed for cats since they are carnivores and don’t require any sugar in their diet. So, when giving your cat some yogurt as a treat, ensure it’s plain and unsweetened.
You can also limit the amount to no more than half a teaspoon per day, as too much yogurt may cause lactose intolerance or diarrhea in some cats.
What are the potential risks of feeding cats yogurt with honey?
Some of the potential risks of feeding cats yogurt with honey are:
Digestive upset: Honey is high in sugar and may cause stomach aches, vomiting, or diarrhea in cats. Yogurt can also lead to lactose intolerance or diarrhea in some cats, particularly if they consume it excessively or have a sensitive stomach.
Weight gain: Honey is high in calories and may contribute to obesity in cats. Excess weight may cause a range of health issues, including diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and liver disease. Yogurt also contains some calories and fat and may add to the cat’s daily calorie intake.
Dental problems: Honey is sticky and may adhere to the cat’s teeth and gums, causing plaque and tartar buildup. This can lead to dental decay, gingivitis, and periodontal disease. Yogurt may also contain some sugar and acid, which can erode the enamel and damage the teeth.
Allergic reaction: Cats can have allergies to honey, yogurt, or their ingredients/additives, resulting in itching, swelling, hives, sneezing, coughing, or breathing difficulties. In serious cases, anaphylaxis may occur, necessitating urgent veterinary treatment.
Do certain breeds of cats have a higher tolerance for yogurt with honey?
Although definitive scientific evidence is lacking, certain cat owners observe increased dairy tolerance in their Siamese and Persian cats, encompassing honey-infused yogurt.
Nonetheless, it is crucial to remember that every cat’s digestive system differs, with tolerance hinging on aspects like age, health, and specific sensitivities.
What are the effects of long-term consumption of yogurt with honey on cats?
You can safely feed your cat small amounts of plain full-fat yogurt without any added sugars as part of a balanced diet but there is no nutritional benefit for them compared to other treats such as cooked fish or meat.
Humans often add sweet things like honey to their own yogurts which cats should not eat because they don’t have molars so would struggle to spit out any chunks of sticky food that might cause blockages if swallowed.
Also, some humans sometimes use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar especially if they are trying to lose weight by eating fewer calories; these chemicals may harm cats.
Can yogurt with honey be used as a remedy for hairballs in cats?
Yes, small amounts of yogurt can be used as a remedy for hairballs in cats, but adding honey to the mix is not recommended. Yogurt has probiotics which can aid in digestion and help alleviate hairballs.
However, honey is not toxic to cats, but it may not outweigh the potential risks. It’s best to proceed with caution when giving any human food to cats.
It’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before trying new remedies.
