Can Cats Drink Milk?

Should Cats Drink Milk?

There is one of many basic question that many new cat owners might ask. Should I give my cat milk? The short answer is “No!” as the usual milk (cow´s milk) we humans drink is not good for cats due to the fact that most cats are lactose intolerant. That means a cat does not produce enough of the enzyme called lactase but lactase is needed to digest milk and to break it down into simple sugar. So, if you give a lactose intolerant cat milk, it can cause indigestion and bowel complaints. That is the basic answer.

Are There Any Exceptions?

Yes, there are some exceptions. Very young cats do indeed need milk but they will consume the mother´s milk and it is important to know that cow´s milk should not be given in this case as well. If you have to raise a motherless kitten, then you should ask a veterinarian for a special cat´s milk recipe.

Do Most Cat´s Have Lactose Intolerance?

No, there are exceptions as well. There is just one way to find out if your cat is lactose intolerant. If you noticed that your cat can drink a little bit milk without problems, then it can be ok to give just a little time by time.

Can You Get Milk Without Lactose?

Yes, there is milk without lactose and you can find special cat´s milk in many shops. It´s in my opinion the safest way to give a cat milk time by time. But also this special milk should not be the main liquid for your cat, you should give water most of the time. I buy my cat a little package of cat´s milk round about once in two weeks but you must find out if your cat tolerates it.