HomeCats › British Shorthair

Can British Shorthairs Eat Cheese?

⚠️ In Moderation Only
Answer
⚠️ Moderate
Safe Serving
Very small piece only
Risk Level
Moderate
⚠️ Avoid
Large amounts cause diarrhea
⚠️ Caution — Very Small Amounts Only
Cheese not toxic but most cats are lactose intolerant for British Shorthairs.

Is Cheese Safe for British Shorthairs?

Cheese is not directly toxic to British Shorthairs but must only be offered occasionally and in very small amounts. Cheese not toxic but most cats are lactose intolerant for British Shorthairs. Feeding too much or too frequently causes digestive problems and potential long-term health issues.

High in fat and lactose — use sparingly as treat. When introducing Cheese for the first time, start with a smaller amount than recommended and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reaction before offering more.

⚠️ Always avoid: Large amounts cause diarrhea — these parts should never be given to your British Shorthair.

Risk: ModerateModerate — use caution

How to serve Cheese to your British Shorthair

  1. Remove Large amounts cause diarrhea completely before preparing.
  2. Start with half of Very small piece only — wait 24 hours before offering more.
  3. Serve plain only — no seasoning, salt, sugar, or additives.
  4. Keep treats under 10% of your British Shorthair's daily calorie intake.

Nutrition — Cheese

Safety⚠️ Use caution
Frequency1–2× per week
AmountVery small only
MonitorWatch 24 hours

Vet tips for British Shorthair owners

  • 💡"In moderation" means once or twice a week maximum — never daily.
  • 💡Monitor your British Shorthair for 2–4 hours after first giving Cheese for vomiting or unusual behaviour.
  • 💡If your British Shorthair has any pre-existing health conditions, ask your vet before offering Cheese.
  • 💡When in doubt, leave it out — there are plenty of fully safe treat alternatives.

Warning signs to watch for

Mild

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Drooling

Serious — call vet now

  • Tremors or seizures
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Pale gums
  • Collapse
  • Blood in vomit

Other great treats for British Shorthairs

✅ Cooked chicken✅ Cooked salmon✅ Turkey✅ Plain tuna✅ Cooked egg

Frequently asked questions

How much Cheese can I give my British Shorthair?+
Safe serving: Very small piece only. Always start with less and wait 24 hours.
Can young or baby British Shorthairs eat Cheese?+
Young British Shorthairs have sensitive digestive systems. Offer an even smaller amount and monitor closely.
Which parts of Cheese are dangerous?+
Always remove: Large amounts cause diarrhea before offering any Cheese to your British Shorthair.
My British Shorthair ate Cheese by accident — what do I do?+
If a small amount, monitor for vomiting or diarrhea. Contact your vet if symptoms appear.
Can British Shorthairs eat Cheese every day?+
No. Once or twice a week is the maximum for Cheese.

Top-rated food for British Shorthairs

Vet-recommended, best-selling on Amazon

Shop Amazon →
⚠️ For informational purposes only. Always consult your vet. Emergencies: ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435.