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Can Cats Eat Ice Cream?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is ice cream safe for cats?
Ice cream is a frozen dessert made mainly from milk or cream and sugar. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, and ice cream is high in sugar, so it is best not offered even as a treat. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need ice cream. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer ice cream
- If you offer any at all, use a small lick of plain vanilla, with no mix-ins
- Look for a frozen treat made for cats instead, sold at pet stores
- Avoid it for cats that are lactose intolerant or overweight
What to avoid
- Chocolate, cookie dough, macadamia nut and coffee flavors, which are toxic
- Sugar-free ice cream, which may contain xylitol
- Regular servings, because of the sugar and dairy
How much ice cream can my cat have?
If you decide to offer ice cream despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your cat has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat ice cream?
Because ice cream needs extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid it for kittens.
What if my cat ate too much ice cream?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should ice cream be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making ice cream a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Ice Cream?