Can cats eat cream?

Updated 20/09/2023

We’ve all heard the saying ‘the cat that got the cream’. But most cats are lactose intolerant - so can cats eat cream, or is it a tasty treat best reserved for us humans only?

All idioms aside, let’s delve in and explore the answer to ‘is cream safe for cats?’ once and for all… 

Can cats eat cream?

In short - no. Most cats are lactose intolerant, and eating dairy products like milk or cream can result in some nasty tummy troubles, like vomiting and diarrhea. That’s because cats don't possess the enzyme (lactase) that's needed to digest dairy. 

Not to mention, cream is also high in fat - which makes it doubly bad for feline friends!

Can cats eat whipped cream?

'Fraid not. While it’s bound to be a welcome addition to this year’s pumpkin pie offering, whipped cream (and likewise, clotted cream, sour cream, double cream, buttercream, and ice cream) is best avoided by our feline friends.

Can kittens eat cream?

Again, it’s a no, folks. Kittens especially have sensitive stomachs, and should avoid all dairy products (except for their mother's milk, of course).

Is cream poisonous to cats?

Cream isn't poisonous to cats per se, but as most adult cats are lactose intolerant, it can cause tummy upset and lead to some nasty symptoms like stomach pain, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea. It’s also worth keeping in mind that cream often has added ingredients, such as artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which may be harmful to cats.  

Not to mention, cream is seriously high in fat and calories - and so, if kitty's diet is more cream than kibble, it'll make it much harder for them to get the nutrients they need without going over their recommended calorific intake, which could lead to weight gain and other health issues. The fat in the cream can lead to conditions such as pancreatitis, which can be very uncomfortable and harmful for your pet.

If you suspect your cat may have eaten cream, it's recommended to contact your veterinarian for advice. Depending on your cat’s individual case, they may recommend a consultation and examination.

The bottom line? Sure, the sight of some fresh cream might be almost irresistible to our fluffy friends, but keep it well out of paw's reach! 

Meet our veterinary expert, Evie

This article has been checked by veterinarian Evie Moloney RCVS. Evie is a vet surgeon who graduated from the University College Dublin, which is the only university offering the veterinary medicine degree in Ireland. She really enjoys surgery and has also worked as an emergency and critical care vet. She is passionate about sharing education about preventative health care 
for pets, especially the importance of regular dog and cat teeth brushing at home. She also enjoys helping owners find practical solutions for keeping pets as comfortable as possible while living with conditions such as arthritis. When not working, she enjoys hiking and swimming. 

Other foods that are not safe for cats

Cream isn’t the only dairy delight our feline friends should be avoiding. So, what else can’t cats eat? Firstly, you can strike these straight off your kitty’s menu: 

• Milk 
• Yogurt
• Cheese
• Ice cream