Cats should only really drink one thing to stay hydrated - water. Despite popular belief, milk is not good for cats and it’s best to steer clear of dairy. Find out why milk is bad for cats and more with our guide.
Can cats drink milk? The image of a cat happily lapping up milk is such a common one that many people don’t even question it. But it may surprise you to learn that sipping at cows’ milk is actually detrimental to their health, no matter how much they make like the taste of it.
Ideally, cats should only be given water to drink. However, it’s important for your cat to stay properly hydrated, especially if they have other health problems such as kidney disease. Some individuals are really not keen on the taste of water, but there are a few tricks you can try to encourage increased water intake. Read on for our tips.
Can cats drink milk?
Is milk bad for cats? Yes – most cats are lactose intolerant, and consuming dairy products can lead to diarrhoea and vomiting. There are some specially designed cat milk options available, which are more suitable and contain reduced lactose. However, these should only be fed in moderation. Kittens will drink their mother’s milk for the first few weeks of life, or a specially designed ‘kitten formula milk’ if necessary. However, they will be fully weaned by around 8-9 weeks of age.
Kittens have an enzyme in their stomachs that allows them to break down lactose from their mother’s milk, but adult cats don’t have this enzyme and lose the ability to digest milk sugars. Instead, the lactose in the milk may cause an upset stomach when it begins to ferment.
Why do cats like milk?
Cats love the taste of milk because it is high in fat. They will often choose to drink it even if it results in an upset stomach. If your cat is fed a high quality, balanced diet they do not need the extra fat from drinking milk, no matter how much they like it.
If your cat has drunk some milk, watch them for any signs of vomiting or diarrhoea and contact your vet if you are concerned.
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of feline nutrition and health, it's crucial to debunk common misconceptions and provide evidence-based insights. The belief that cats enjoy and benefit from drinking milk is widespread, but it's imperative to dispel this notion for the well-being of our feline friends.
Firstly, let's address the misconception that milk is a suitable beverage for cats. Despite the prevalent image of a content cat lapping up milk, the reality is that milk, especially cow's milk, is detrimental to their health. This is not just a theoretical assertion; it's grounded in the physiological characteristics of cats.
One of the key reasons cats should not consume milk is their high likelihood of lactose intolerance. Most adult cats lack the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for breaking down lactose, the sugar found in milk. This deficiency becomes apparent as cats age and lose the ability to digest milk sugars. When lactose-intolerant cats ingest dairy products, it often leads to digestive issues such as diarrhea and vomiting.
The evidence supporting this claim lies in the understanding of feline biology. Kittens possess an enzyme in their stomachs that facilitates the digestion of lactose from their mother's milk. However, this enzyme diminishes as they grow, and by around 8-9 weeks of age, cats are fully weaned and no longer equipped to process milk sugars.
It's important to emphasize that even though cats may enjoy the taste of milk due to its high fat content, they do not require the additional fat if they are already fed a high-quality, balanced diet. The preference for milk does not negate its negative impact on their digestive system.
To address the need for hydration, the ideal beverage for cats is plain water. Proper hydration is crucial, especially for cats with health issues like kidney disease. While some cats may be averse to the taste of water, there are practical tips to encourage increased water intake, ensuring they remain adequately hydrated.
In conclusion, the image of a cat happily sipping milk is charming but misguided. Understanding the biological reasons behind why cats should not drink milk is essential for responsible pet ownership. Opting for water and providing a balanced diet tailored to their nutritional needs is the key to ensuring a cat's health and well-being.
