Can cats eat ice cream? As we all know, cats can be picky about their food. They have very distinct tastes when it comes to what they eat or don’t eat. But does that mean cats will also turn down ice cream?
Cats and Milk
As you are probably aware, ice cream is typically prepared from milk. We’ve been taught that cats love to settle down and lap up a bowl of milk. Ice cream should be good for cats based on this logic, right? No, not at all.
The notion that cats enjoy dairy is based on a stereotype. The only milk a kitten should drink is that which comes from its mother. Adult cats are frequently lactose intolerant, so unless you like cleaning up a messy case of diarrhea, it’s better to keep your cat away from milk. Dairy can also cause other gastrointestinal problems in cats.
Since, cats are lactose intolerant to dairy products cats can have trouble digesting dairy products, especially cream-based meals such as whipped cream, milk, cheese, and butter. Sugar is also dangerous to your cat, especially if they take a considerable amount in one sitting. There are numerous reasons why cats should not consume sweet human foods such as chocolate. If it becomes a habit, it can lead to long-term weight issues, and in the near term, you can expect to deal with cat diarrhoea and stomach issues from milk and sugar intake.
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Do Cats Like Ice Cream?
Cats can have a tendency to eat ice cream but is it because they like sugary foods? No! This is true even if the treat contains an artificial sweetener and is sugar-free.
First of all, sweeteners, like xylitol, are not toxic to cats. And unlike dogs, cats do not like sugary treats. In truth, research investigations show that cats lack sweet taste receptors and are not lured to sweet foods.
They also do not shy away from the taste. They simply do not react to sweetness. Hence the reason they can eat ice cream and pet owners may interpret it as a liking.
Can Cats Have Ice Cream?
Can a cat eat ice cream? It certainly can. However, it is not quite that simple. First and foremost it depends on cats’ allergic reaction to dairy products. If you’re certain that your cat isn’t allergic to dairy or lactose intolerant, then ice cream may be safe for them.
Allowing your cat to consume ice cream is a risk that is not worth taking because it can lead to negative effects. If you do decide to give your cat ice cream, use caution. Only provide a small amount to avoid causing adverse effects that will prove harmful to your beloved pet.
It is actually not recommended to feed your cat ice cream even as a treat but if its too tempting then first contact your vet.
Can Cats Eat Vanilla Ice Cream?
While a little serving of vanilla ice cream is perfectly fine for your cat to eat, don’t give her a large amount. In modest amounts, vanilla ice cream with artificial sweeteners is likewise safe for cats. Without any toppings or additives, vanilla ice cream is acceptable to be given as a treat in moderation.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate Ice Cream?
If there is any chocolate ice cream mixed in with the vanilla, don’t give it to your cat. Chocolate of any kind is extremely harmful to cats and can be lethal. Why don’t you give this article a read: “Can a Cat Eat Chocolate? Is it Bad for Cats to Eat Chocolate?”. As mentioned in the aforementioned article, chocolate can cause toxicity in cats and can result in serious symptoms such as:
- omiting
- Diarrhea
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Increased thirst and urination
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
- Muscle Stiffness
- Panting
- Rapid breathing
- Increased Reflex Responses
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Death
Can Cats Eat Strawberry Ice Cream?
If you want to build your own unique kitty recipe, mix some strawberries into your vanilla goat’s milk ice cream. This, however, is probably not the best idea. Strawberries are tasty, but they are unlikely to appeal to your cat.
They are non-toxic and hence completely harmless, however, they provide no nutritional value to a cat.
Why is Ice Cream Bad for Cats?
There are two reasons: One is because it is made of milk, cats, being lactose intolerant can have a difficult time digesting it. The other is that ice cream contains an anti-freeze substance known as Propylene Glycol.
Although propylene glycol is considered safe for human consumption but same cannot be said for cats. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, cats are especially susceptible to propylene glycol, which is no longer permitted in cat feeds. When cats consume excessive amounts of propylene glycol, especially in liquid form, they can become poisoned.
Significant consumption of propylene glycol-containing meals or liquids in cats can result in Heinz body hemolytic anemia, a disorder in which red blood cells are destroyed. Symptoms of this form of anemia, may include:
- Fever
- Unexpected illness
- Appetite loss
- Darkened Urine
- Mucosal Membranes Become Pale
- Discoloration of the skin
Sympotoms of Feeding Ice Cream to Cats
Symptoms of Propylene Glycol as mentioned above may appear. Moreover, the fats and sugars will cause obesity in cats. And lastly, what’s also common with humans is that cats will also get a brain freeze. Yes, their brains will get those painful headaches and make a funny face. But do not get tempted to try it out and record it as it may cause harm to your feline friend?
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Conlusion: Can a Cat Eat Ice Cream?
In conclusion, it is not recommended that you feed your cat ice cream. However, if you really do want to treat your kitty with something sweet, as we have discussed today, vanilla ice cream will likely be the best option for your cat to digest.
The key here is to offer some Ice cream in very low doses and never let your cat have Ice Cream on its own. If you do this, you will be able to avoid most of the side effects that come with giving Ice cream to cats. Do not try to feed ice cream more often it can affect your cat’s health adversely. Good luck.
