Can cats eat custard?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Sugar and lactose can cause diarrhoea and stomach upset.
Why
Custard is sugary and dairy-based, which most cats cannot digest well.
Can cats eat custard, and why?
Custard is sugary and dairy-based, which most cats cannot digest well. Sugar and lactose can cause diarrhoea and stomach upset.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
Sugar and lactose can cause diarrhoea and stomach upset.
If your cat has eaten custard, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
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Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat custard?
Caution. Custard is sugary and dairy-based, which most cats cannot digest well.
What happens if my cat eats custard?
Sugar and lactose can cause diarrhoea and stomach upset. If your cat has eaten custard, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is custard poisonous to cats?
Caution. Custard is sugary and dairy-based, which most cats cannot digest well.
Check custard for another pet