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Don’t you just love some cream cheese spread on a bagel? As you’re eating the bagel with cream cheese, we’re pretty sure your dog is probably also begging for a portion! But is it safe for dogs to eat cream cheese? What happens if your dog happens to steal the cream cheese bagel when you’re not looking? Will he get sick?
Has your dog eaten cream cheese? Are you worried the cream cheese could make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when a dog eats something like this.
We’ve put together some information about cream cheese and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Cream Cheese?
Cream cheese is a soft, mild-tasting cheese made with milk and cream. Some people wonder if the cheese is really true cheese. However, the FDA has defined cream cheese as having about 33% fat with a moisture content of 55% or less. According to them, the cheese is real if it fits this definition.
The flavor of cream cheese is smooth and mild, while the cheese itself is soft. The most famous brand of this type of cheese is Philadelphia Cream Cheese. That’s because the cheese was first made there, back in 1873. From there, the cheese has become a favorite in the US and all around the world.
Cream cheese is a versatile cheese that’s used in many recipes—you can make everything from dips, spreads, and frosting from cream cheese. It’s also used in many other dishes and sauces.
While cream cheese is safe for humans, what about dogs? Can dogs safely eat cream cheese?
Cream Cheese & Dogs
The good news is that cream cheese is safe for dogs to eat, but only in small amounts. The cheese can be healthy for dogs as it contains vitamins, protein, and essential fatty acids that are good for dogs.
However, too much cream cheese can be bad for a dog. For one thing, some dogs are allergic to dairy or may have lactose intolerance. Eating cream cheese could make these dogs sick.
Another problem is if a dog eats too much cream cheese, the dog could develop digestive tract problems.
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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Eating Cream Cheese in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten cream cheese:
Symptoms of an allergic reaction:
- Hives
- Difficulty breathing
- Itchy, irritated skin
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
If your canine companion shows any of these symptoms, call the vet immediately. This can be an emergency.
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance in Dogs (also applies for if a dog eats a large amount of cream cheese)
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Lethargy
If your dog shows any of these symptoms and they last longer than 12-24 hours, then it’s time to call the vet. There’s a concern that your dog could become dehydrated from continuous vomiting and diarrhea.
The good news is that cream cheese in small amounts is OK for your dog. However, if your dog is allergic to dairy, lactose intolerant, or eats too much cream cheese, do call the vet right away.
Connect with a verified veterinarian in minutes. Licensed vets are available 24/7 to answer your questions. No need to worry about your furry family member.
Kim
Kim is a talented author, who loves animals especially dogs. She engaged in writing books and articles relating to animals a decade ago. Kim resides in Chicago with her husband and son. The family is the proud owner of a dog and a parrot (Jack and Lily). Kim wanted more than these two pets, but her husband put his foot down... She often visits elementary schools to talk to the kids about what she learned about pets and how they could learn from them.Review symptoms, medications & behavior to keep your pets healthy with a Vet Online in just minutes.
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