Disclaimer: Always check with your vet on what “human foods” your cat can and cannot eat as information may vary based on their dietary needs and health conditions.
You’ve probably seen videos of cat parents making “cat popsicles” out of Churu or meat paste and wondered if cats can eat or enjoy ice cream like we do on a hot day. In case you missed it, most cats are actually lactose-intolerant and should not be eating icecream.
Read on to learn more about whether ice cream is safe for cats, should they be eating it and alternative cat-safe options.
Table of Contents
Is ice-cream safe for cats?
Ice cream is generally not safe for cats for a few reasons:
- Lactose intolerance: most cats can’t digest dairy, leading to stomach upset, diarrhea, and gas.
- Sugar and fat: high sugar and fat in ice cream can cause obesity and health problems.
- Toxic ingredients: additives like chocolate, xylitol, raisins, or caffeine can be life-threatening.
- Cold temperatures: cold foods may cause discomfort or a “brain freeze” in cats.
If your cat shows interest and you want to share a tiny lick of plain, vanilla ice cream or plain, frozen yogurt, it may not cause immediate harm, but it’s not recommended as a regular treat.
Is ice-cream bad for cats?
Ice cream is bad for cats because it can cause digestive issues, obesity, discomfort from cold, and may contain toxic ingredients like chocolate or xylitol. Cat-safe treats are better options.
Which is why at Petchef, we ensure that all the ingredients that go into your cat’s meal is made for obligate carnivores! All the meals tailored for cats contain:
It’s completely free of preservatives, additives, fillers and grains! If you’d love for your cat to eat the food they were born to eat, come have a chat with our friendly pet nutritionist to find the ideal meal for your pet
How much ice-cream can a cat eat?
If you decide to give your cat a small taste of icecream, only offer a very small amount – a teaspoon or less, as a rare treat. Make sure you observe your cat for any signs of discomfort, such as diarrhea or vomiting, which could indicate lactose intolerance.
How to tell when a cat has had too much ice-cream?
If a cat eats too much ice cream, it may show the following signs of discomfort or illness:
- Digestive issues: diarrhea, vomiting, gas, or bloating due to lactose intolerance.
- Lethargy: low energy or unusual tiredness caused by digestive distress or sugar overload.
- Stomach pain: hunching, vocalizing, or reluctance to move, indicating abdominal discomfort.
- Toxicity symptoms: if the ice cream contain harmful ingredients (e.g., chocolate or xylitol), look for drooling, tremors, seizures, or rapid breathing.
- Dehydration: excessive diarrhea or vomiting may cause dehydration (check for dry gums or skin elasticity).
If your cat shows any of these signs, keep them hydrated and avoid offering any more Ice cream or treats for a day or two. If symptoms are severe or don’t resolve within 24 hours, it’s best to consult your vet for advice.
How often can cats eat icecream?
Cats should not eat ice cream regularly and ideally not at all, as it is not a suitable treat for them. However, if you really want to let your cat have a small taste, here are some guidelines:
When in doubt, skip the ice cream altogether and choose healthier options for your feline friend!
Safer alternatives to icecream?
The heat in Malaysia/Singapore is undeniable, so here are some cat-safe options instead
- Small amounts of plain, unsweetened yogurt (if they can tolerate lactose).
- Specially made cat ice creams, usually found in pet stores, which are lactose-free and safe.
- A small portion of plain, cooked chicken or fish as a treat.
- Frozen meat-sicles made from cat treats
