Cats and milk… This pairing has long existed side by side in the imagination of cat lovers.
Many of us remember childhood cartoon scenes of a cute cat licking milk beside a warm fireplace. However, the reality behind this charming image may not be as innocent as it seems;
- the answer to the question “can cats drink milk?” is not a simple yes or no. It requires a detailed evaluation supported by scientific data.
During the kitten stage, mother’s milk is critically important for healthy development. At this stage, kittens produce sufficient amounts of the enzyme needed to digest lactose. However, as cats grow older, the production of this enzyme decreases, and adult cats lose much of their ability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. As a result, most adult cats develop lactose intolerance; in other words, lactose cannot be properly digested and instead ferments in the intestines, leading to diarrhea, gas, and stomach discomfort. This is supported by scientific studies and veterinary opinions.
Many adult cats cannot adequately break down the lactose found in cow’s milk. For this reason, milk can strain the digestive system and cause discomfort in many cats. When lactose is not digested, it draws water into the intestines, which can result in symptoms such as soft stools or diarrhea, gas, bloating, and abdominal pain.
- Although milk may appear appealing, it is not a beverage that meets a cat’s true nutritional needs; cats are obligate carnivores and obtain their nutritional requirements primarily from high-quality animal protein.
Some cats may tolerate very small amounts of milk and may even seem to enjoy it, but this does not apply to all cats. The attraction to milk usually comes from its fat and protein content; however, this appeal does not make milk a suitable or healthy food choice.
Milk Alternatives and Healthier Options
Whole cow’s milk is not recommended for adult cats. If you wish to offer your cat a milk-like taste, specially formulated cat milk products or lactose-free milk alternatives may be considered.
- However, it should not be forgotten that even these products should not exceed the recommended amounts. Most veterinarians advise that a cat’s daily fluid needs should be met primarily with fresh, clean water.
The Situation for Kittens
For kittens, mother’s milk is essential. If the mother cat is not present, veterinarian-approved kitten milk replacer formulas should be used. Products intended for humans or cow’s milk alternatives are not suitable for kittens and can lead to digestive problems.
In conclusion, giving cow’s milk to adult cats is generally not a healthy choice, and this practice can cause serious digestive issues beyond the myth created by popular culture.
Although you may find yourself faced with your cat’s sweet, pleading looks asking for milk, the best approach for their long-term health is to ensure that their daily drink is always fresh, clean water.
References
Cornell Feline Health Center. (t.y.). Feeding your cat. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feeding-your-cat
Are cats lactose intolerant? — Cats Protection UK Blog.
https://www.cats.org.uk/cats-blog/are-cats-lactose-intolerant?utm_source
Clinical and Morphological Manifestations… (Biosci Biotech Res Asia 2019.)