The Puppuccino, also known as a Pup Cup, was developed by Starbucks as an option for dog owners who want to give their pooches a treat. However, some cat parents feel left out and want to know whether their feline family members can enjoy a Puppuccino.
A plain Puppuccino isn’t toxic to cats, but it isn’t a healthy treat. Because it’s made with whipped cream, some cats may experience digestive upset due to lactose intolerance or the high fat content. However, there are some things you should know about this secret menu item before ordering one for your kitty friend. Read on to learn more.
What Exactly Is a Puppuccino?
The Puppuccino is a Starbucks cup filled with whipped cream. No coffee, chocolate, or syrup is included. The idea is for a pooch to stay entertained with a snack while their parents enjoy their specialty coffee. Many dogs enjoy the smell and taste of whipped cream, and some cats are interested in it too, likely because of its fat content.
There is no such thing as a cat-sized Pup Cup, but you can ask for a miniature portion to avoid giving your cat too much whipped cream.
How Is a Puppuccino Ordered?
Pup Cups are not on the regular Starbucks menu. You will not find any mention of it on their app or on their brick-and-mortar walls. However, getting your hands on one is as simple as asking the barista. What’s most awesome about the Puppuccino is that it’s free! You do have to purchase something for yourself to get the treat for free.
Since the Pup Cup is a promotional item that doesn’t cost you anything, not all Starbucks participate. The first Starbucks you visit may not offer such a treat, but it never hurts to ask. You can always call ahead of time to make sure that you can get a Puppuccino before visiting a store. If that store doesn’t offer Pup Cups, they should be able to recommend a store that does.
Are Puppuccinos Healthy for Cats?
A Puppuccino is not a healthy food. It may also contain stabilizers and other ingredients that aren’t necessary in your cat’s diet, but the main concerns are its high fat content and the lactose in dairy. Whipped cream contains lactose, which is something that cats are typically intolerant of. So no, Puppuccinos are not healthy for cats. However, a few licks of the treat are unlikely to harm your cat.
Pup Cups should be given on special occasions and offered occasionally. Give Pup Cups as a treat but never in place of a real meal.
Tips for Giving Your Cat a Puppuccino
To prevent overeating this delicious treat, don’t offer a whole cup of whipped cream to your cat at once. Instead, use the lid of the cup as a dish and put a small spoonful of whipped cream on it. Your cat won’t need much coaxing to start digging in.
If you decide to let your cat have a taste, keep the portion very small and enjoy the rest yourself. A safer option would be to bring your cat their very own cat-safe milk to offer them a completely safe treat while you are having your coffee. They may enjoy it just as much, with a much lower risk of lactose-related digestive upset.
Conclusion
Puppuccinos are fun for dogs, cats, and pet owners alike. At many Starbucks locations, Puppuccinos are free, and plenty of pets enjoy them as an occasional treat. However, it is crucial to remember that whipped cream is not a healthy food for dogs or cats and should only be offered in small amounts and on occasion. If you want to treat your cat while you’re enjoying your Starbucks coffee, offer a small amount of their favorite cat treats or a piece of plain cooked chicken instead. That way, they can enjoy a snack that’s much more appropriate for their diet.
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Featured Image Credit: Monarexx, Shutterstock
What Exactly Is a Puppuccino?
