Can a British Shorthair Eat Cheese?
Verdict: YES (In moderation)
The Quick Answer
While a British Shorthair can safely eat a small piece of cheese, they are not biologically designed to digest dairy. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, meaning cheese should be treated as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.
The Pros and Cons
⚠️ The Risks
- Lactose Intolerance: Many cats lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down the sugars in dairy, which can lead to gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
- Weight Gain: British Shorthairs are already prone to obesity. Cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat, which can contribute to rapid weight gain.
- High Sodium: Excessive salt intake can put unnecessary strain on your cat’s kidneys.
- Toxicity: Certain “specialty” cheeses contain garlic or onion powder, both of which are toxic to cats.
✅ The Potential Benefits
- Palatability: Cheese is highly aromatic and tasty, making it a great “high-value” reward for pill-masking or training.
- Protein & Calcium: In tiny amounts, cheese provides a small boost of protein and calcium.
How to Safely Serve Cheese to Your British Shorthair
If you want to give your cat a cheesy treat, follow these nutritionist-approved guidelines:
1. Choose the Right Type
Opt for hard, aged cheeses. These have lower lactose levels than soft cheeses.
- Best choices: Small bits of Cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss.
- Avoid: Brie, Camembert, or any cheese containing herbs, garlic, or onions.
2. Portion Control
Keep it to a pea-sized amount. A tiny cube once or twice a week is plenty. Cheese should never exceed 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake.
3. Monitor the Reaction
After the first time you offer cheese, monitor your British Shorthair for 24 hours. Watch for:
- Loose stools or diarrhea.
- Excessive vomiting.
- Increased lethargy.
Pro Tip: If your cat has a history of kidney issues or is overweight, it is best to skip the cheese entirely and stick to feline-specific treats.