Can Cats Drink Yogurt?

Cats can drink a moderate amount of plain yogurt (such as unsweetened set yogurt). Because cats secrete too little or poorly active lactase, they cannot break down the lactose in milk and easily develop lactose intolerance after drinking it. Yogurt is different: its lactose has already been converted into lactic acid and other organic acids during fermentation, so cats are far less likely to suffer lactose intolerance from it. Yogurt is also rich in protein, calcium and vitamins, which can supplement a cat’s nutrition.

However, owners should not give too much. A cat’s gastrointestinal tract is relatively weak, and excessive yogurt will burden it. Offer only a small taste occasionally rather than making it a regular part of the diet.