Can Cats Drink Puppuccinos (Pup Cups) From Starbucks? Important Considerations & Tips

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.

There is nothing in a Puppuccino that is toxic to cats, but they are not considered a healthy food. 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 parent enjoys their specialty coffee. Dogs can’t resist the smell and taste of whipped cream, and it turns out that most cats like it just as much!

There is no such thing as a cat-sized Pup Cup, but you can ask for a miniature version so you don’t overload your cat with sugar.

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, either.

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 does contain additives for stabilization that would not normally be in your cat’s diet. Whipped cream also 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.

You can always share the whipped cream with your cat and use some of it to top your coffee, too. 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. After all, they will appreciate it just as much without the risk of having lactose-related digestive issues.

Conclusion

Puppuccinos are fun for dogs, cats, and pet owners alike. You can’t beat the price (free), and your pet won’t be able to resist. 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 really want to share a treat with your cat when enjoying a Starbucks coffee, offer them a piece of jerky or something with nutritional value, too, so that they will not try to gobble the entire Pup Cup up.

See Also:

• 11 Best Cat Foods For Healthy Coats & Skin – Reviews and Top Picks
• 10 Best Cat Food Bowls: Reviews & Top Picks

Featured Image Credit: Monarexx, Shutterstock