Can Cats Drink Milk? What Every Cat Owner Should Know

Picture a cat happily lapping milk from a saucer.

It's an image we've seen countless times in cartoons, storybooks and advertisements. For generations, milk has been associated with cats.

But here's something that surprises many cat owners: milk isn't actually a good everyday drink for cats.

In fact, many adult cats have difficulty digesting the lactose found in ordinary cow's milk.

So, can cats drink milk? What about kittens, lactose-free milk or the special cat milk products sold in pet shops?

Let's explore what cat owners should know before offering their feline companions a saucer of milk.

Can Cats Drink Cow's Milk?

Although some cats may tolerate small amounts of cow's milk, it's generally best to avoid giving it to them.

The main reason is lactose.

Lactose is a naturally occurring sugar found in milk. To digest it properly, the body needs an enzyme called lactase.

Young kittens produce lactase to digest their mother's milk. However, as cats grow older and are weaned, their ability to produce this enzyme often decreases.

Without enough lactase, milk can cause digestive problems.

This means that even if your cat seems to enjoy milk, its digestive system may not appreciate it quite as much!

Why Do Cats Like Milk?

If milk isn't particularly good for cats, why do so many seem interested in it?

One explanation is its fat content.

Cats may be attracted to the smell, taste and rich texture of milk and other dairy products.

However, enjoying something doesn't necessarily mean it's suitable for them.

Think about how some cats try to steal food from their owners' plates, even when it's something they shouldn't eat.

Cats can be curious and persistent when food is involved.

Are Cats Lactose Intolerant?

Many adult cats are lactose intolerant, although the degree of intolerance varies.

When a cat cannot digest lactose properly, it passes through the digestive system and may cause discomfort.

Common signs include:

• Diarrhoea or loose stools

• Vomiting

• Excessive gas

• Bloating

• Abdominal discomfort

These symptoms may develop after a cat consumes milk or other dairy products.

Some cats may appear to tolerate a little milk without obvious symptoms, but that doesn't mean milk provides any particular nutritional benefit.

The safest everyday drink for cats remains fresh, clean water.

Can Kittens Drink Milk?

Yes, but there's an important distinction between their mother's milk and the milk we drink.

Newborn kittens depend on their mother's milk for nourishment during their earliest weeks of life.

Mother's milk provides nutrients essential for their growth and development.

If a kitten cannot nurse from its mother, it may need a specially formulated kitten milk replacer under veterinary guidance.

Ordinary cow's milk is not a suitable substitute.

It doesn't provide the correct nutritional balance for young kittens and can cause digestive problems.

Once kittens are weaned, they should transition to suitable kitten food and have access to fresh drinking water.

Can Cats Drink Lactose-Free Milk?

Lactose-free milk removes or breaks down the lactose that causes digestive problems for many cats.

However, that doesn't automatically make it an ideal drink.

Lactose-free dairy milk can still contain fat and calories that your cat doesn't need.

It also doesn't replace a properly balanced diet or fresh water.

If you're considering giving your cat lactose-free milk, it's worth remembering that a product being easier to digest doesn't necessarily mean it needs to be part of your cat's diet.

What About Special Cat Milk?

You may have noticed products labelled cat milk in supermarkets and pet shops.

These are generally formulated to be more suitable for cats than ordinary cow's milk, often by reducing or removing lactose.

Even so, cat milk is typically intended as an occasional treat rather than an everyday drink.

Some products can contain substantial calories, so portions matter.

Always check the ingredients and feeding instructions, particularly if your cat has a sensitive stomach or a medical condition.

And remember, cat milk should never replace fresh drinking water.

Can Cats Drink Almond, Oat or Soy Milk?

With so many plant-based milk alternatives available today, you might wonder whether they're suitable for cats.

The answer is that they're generally unnecessary and best avoided.

Although almond, oat and soy milk may not contain lactose, that doesn't automatically make them suitable for feline digestion.

Some products contain added sugar, flavourings, oils or other ingredients that cats don't need.

Certain sweetened or flavoured drinks may contain ingredients that are unsafe for pets.

It's much simpler to provide fresh water and choose treats made specifically for cats.

Can Cats Drink Goat's Milk?

Goat's milk is sometimes promoted as an alternative to cow's milk.

However, goat's milk still contains lactose.

This means it can also cause digestive discomfort in lactose-intolerant cats.

It's not a reliable solution for cats that have difficulty digesting dairy.

My Cat Accidentally Drank Milk. Should I Worry?

If your cat manages to sneak a few laps of milk from your breakfast bowl, there's usually no reason to panic.

Not every cat will experience a noticeable reaction.

However, keep an eye out for vomiting, diarrhoea or changes in behaviour.

Make sure fresh water is available.

If symptoms are persistent, severe or accompanied by unusual tiredness or a loss of appetite, contact your veterinarian.

Kittens, elderly cats and cats with existing health problems may be more vulnerable to dehydration and other complications.

What Should Cats Drink Instead of Milk?

The answer is refreshingly simple: water.

Cats should have access to clean, fresh drinking water throughout the day.

If your cat doesn't seem particularly enthusiastic about drinking, you can try a few simple changes.

Try a different water bowl

Some cats prefer wide, shallow bowls that don't press against their whiskers.

Keep water fresh

Replace drinking water regularly and clean the bowl.

Offer water in different locations

Some cats prefer drinking away from their food bowl or litter tray.

Consider a cat water fountain

Cats that enjoy running water may be more interested in a drinking fountain.

Include suitable wet food in their diet

Wet food contains moisture and can contribute to a cat's overall water intake.

However, it doesn't eliminate the need for a separate source of fresh drinking water.

What About CHIEF Chicken Milkshake for Cats?

When you see a product called a milkshake, it's natural to think of the dairy drinks people enjoy.

But products made for cats can be quite different.

CHIEF Chicken Milkshake, available from RAZKIN, is a creamy chicken-based cat food product with a milkshake-like texture.

It's not intended to be a bowl of ordinary cow's milk.

Its smooth consistency offers a different texture from traditional wet cat food, which may appeal to cats that enjoy creamy foods.

If you're considering CHIEF Chicken Milkshake for your cat, check the product's ingredients, feeding guidance and suitability before introducing it.

As with any new food, introduce it gradually and observe how your cat responds.

Explore CHIEF Chicken Milkshake and RAZKIN Products

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cats drink milk every day?

It's best not to give cats ordinary cow's milk every day. Many adult cats cannot digest lactose properly, and milk adds unnecessary calories.

Can cats drink a little milk occasionally?

Some cats may tolerate a small amount without obvious symptoms, but it's generally safer to avoid cow's milk altogether.

Is lactose-free milk safe for cats?

Lactose-free milk reduces the risk of lactose-related digestive problems, but it still contains calories and may not be suitable for every cat. Fresh water remains the best choice.

Can kittens drink cow's milk?

No. Kittens should receive their mother's milk or, when necessary, an appropriate kitten milk replacer recommended by a veterinarian.

Can cats drink milk mixed with water?

Diluting cow's milk doesn't remove its lactose. Cats that are sensitive to lactose may still experience digestive discomfort.

Why does my cat love milk?

Cats may be attracted to milk's fat content, smell and texture. However, enjoying the taste doesn't mean milk is good for them.

What is the best drink for cats?

Fresh, clean water is the best everyday drink for cats of all ages once they're weaned.

Final Thoughts

So, can cats drink milk?

Although the image of a cat drinking from a saucer of milk is familiar, the reality is quite different.

Many adult cats are lactose intolerant, and ordinary cow's milk can lead to an upset stomach.

Even lactose-free milk and specially formulated cat milk products are generally unnecessary for a healthy cat's everyday diet.

Fresh water should always be the first choice.

And if your cat gives you that familiar pleading look while you're pouring milk into your morning coffee, remember that sometimes the kindest thing you can do is resist sharing!

Sources and Further Reading

The following independent animal welfare and veterinary resources provide further guidance on milk, lactose intolerance and feline hydration.

1. Cats Protection – Cats and Drinking: What Do Cats Drink?
   Advice on milk, water and suitable drinks for cats.

2. PDSA – Can Cats Drink Milk?
   Veterinary guidance on lactose intolerance and milk consumption.

3. RSPCA Australia – What Should I Feed My Kitten?
   Information about kitten nutrition and why milk is not recommended as a drink.

4. FOUR PAWS Australia – Milk Is Not Good for Cats
   Explanation of lactose digestion and digestive problems associated with dairy.

Disclaimer: This article provides general educational information and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about your cat's diet or health.