Can cats eat ice cream?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Can cause diarrhoea and upset; some flavours contain toxic chocolate or xylitol.
Why
Ice cream is sugary, fatty and most cats cannot digest the lactose.
Can cats eat ice cream, and why?
Ice cream is sugary, fatty and most cats cannot digest the lactose. Can cause diarrhoea and upset; some flavours contain toxic chocolate or xylitol.
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
Can cause diarrhoea and upset; some flavours contain toxic chocolate or xylitol.
If your cat has eaten ice cream, 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.
🚨 Find an emergency vet near youMore foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat ice cream?
Caution. Ice cream is sugary, fatty and most cats cannot digest the lactose.
What happens if my cat eats ice cream?
Can cause diarrhoea and upset; some flavours contain toxic chocolate or xylitol. If your cat has eaten ice cream, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is ice cream poisonous to cats?
Caution. Ice cream is sugary, fatty and most cats cannot digest the lactose.
Check ice cream for another pet