Can American Shorthairs Eat Cheese?
Verdict: YES (But only in small amounts and occasionally)
While a piece of cheese wonāt be toxic to your American Shorthair, it is not a natural part of a feline diet. Most cats are actually lactose intolerant, meaning cheese should be treated as a rare treat rather than a snack.
Why the Caution?
Cats are obligate carnivores. Once they are weaned from their motherās milk, their bodies stop producing lactase, the enzyme needed to break down the lactose (sugar) found in dairy products.
While American Shorthairs are generally hardy and robust, feeding them too much cheese can lead to digestive distress or long-term health issues.
Potential Benefits & Risks
š¢ The Benefits
- Palatability: Many cats love the strong scent and taste of cheese, making it a great high-value reward for training.
- Minor Nutrients: In tiny quantities, cheese provides a small boost of calcium and protein.
š“ The Risks
- Lactose Intolerance: The most common risk. This can cause diarrhea, gas, and vomiting.
- High Fat Content: Cheese is calorie-dense. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and pancreatitis.
- Sodium Levels: Many cheeses are high in salt, which can strain a catās kidneys over time.
- Toxic Additives: Some specialty cheeses contain garlic or onion powder, which are toxic to all cat breeds.
How to Safely Feed Cheese to Your Cat
If you want to give your American Shorthair a cheesy treat, follow these expert guidelines to keep them safe:
1. Choose the Right Type
Not all cheeses are created equal. Opt for hard, aged cheeses which have lower lactose levels:
- Best Choices: Small cubes of Cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss.
- Avoid: Soft cheeses (Brie, Camembert), processed cheese slices, or any cheese with added herbs/spices.
2. Control the Portion
Cheese should make up less than 10% of your catās daily caloric intake. A piece the size of a small die (approx. 1/2 inch) is plenty.
3. Monitor the Reaction
After the first time you feed your cat cheese, watch for:
- Loose stools or diarrhea.
- Excessive gas.
- Vomiting.
- If any of these occur, stop feeding dairy immediately.
4. Check the Ingredients
Always read the label. Ensure there is no xylitol (an artificial sweetener) or alliums (garlic/onion) in the cheese.