Is Milk Good For Cats?
Is Milk Good For Cats?
Many people believe that milk is healthy for cats, but the reality is that it is a myth. No matter how yummy milk may seem to your cat, this is terrible for their digestive system and stomach because milk is high in lactose and most cats are prone to lactose intolerance.
Dr Gary Richter a veterinary expert suggests “Cats don’t need dairy milk, and the potential problems outweigh the potential benefits.”
And same is true for all other dairy products.
Only at birth and for the first 12 weeks of life, young kittens do have enough of the enzyme lactase to digest lactose in mother milk effectively. After 12 weeks, little kittens start losing their ability to produce the enzyme and soon are deficient in lactase.
What is lactose intolerance in cats?
Lactose intolerance is a cat's inability to digest lactose that is abundant in milk.
Most cats lack the enzyme lactase, which aids in the digestion of lactose found in milk. Lactose passes through the cat's digestive tract undigested and absorbs water from the intestines.
Simply said, lactose cannot easily move through the gut wall into circulation. Cats are also prone to developing unpleasant gas and diarrhea following the consumption of dairy products.
Among all the milk varieties, cow's milk has the highest lactose content (about 5%), making it tough for most cats to digest.
How drinking milk may affect cat health?
Drinking milk usually triggers unhealthy changes in cats. Because cats lack the enzyme required to digest lactose, consuming milk can result in gastrointestinal problems including acid reflux, diarrhea, and vomiting as well as loss of appetite, weight loss, abdominal pain, and behavioral changes like increased scratching.
If your cat suffers from frequent bouts of diarrhea after milk consumption, severe dehydration may develop and the consequences may be fatal.
What else can my cat drink instead of milk?
Lactose-free milk
The important thing to be noted is that cats are lactose intolerant to natural milk only. There is nothing to worry about If you serve lactose-free processed milk to your cat.
water
For cats on dry food, water is the most important fluid to cats. It helps them keep their digestive system motile, working and healthy. It helps in the removal of waste from the body through urine and bowel movements.
Bone broth
Bone broth is a nutrients rich drink for cats. Even the pickiest cat is often attracted by the flavor of broth poured over dry cat food. If your cat has dietary allergies or sensitivities, bone broth is a helpful nutritional supplement. It aids in digestion and boosts the immune system.
Kitten milk formula is the best thing for a young kitten that has been weaned from its mother too soon.
It is designed to include all of the vitamins, minerals, and nutrition that a mother cat would normally offer. This contains all of the protein, fat, and carbs that they require for growth.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats drink almond milk?
Almond milk is lactose-free but not an ideal source of nutrients. It does contain some important vitamins and can be served as an occasional treat.
Can cats drink yoghurt milk?
Yes, but in small quantity as an occasional treat. It must be unsweetened and with minimum lactose content.
Is coconut milk safe for cats?
Yes, but in small amounts. In excess, it may cause diarrhea, loose stools and stomach upsets.
Is chocolate milk safe for cats?
No, chocolate milk is not recommended for cats.
Chocolate includes methylxanthines, which are hazardous to cats. Call your veterinarian if your cat has ingested chocolate milk.