Whether you own a cat or not, you’ve very likely seen cats drinking large bowls of milk in cartoons, for instance. But is it good for them?
This is a rather complex question! The answer is both yes and no as it depends on several factors (age, quantity, tolerance, etc.). Furthermore, when we talk about “giving milk to a cat,” it is implied that the milk in question is cow’s milk.
On one hand, kittens have specific needs that cow’s milk cannot properly meet for their healthy growth. On the other hand, some adult cats tolerate cow’s milk well, while others do not. Just like us humans!
I’ll break down this topic for you. If in doubt, do not hesitate to seek advice from your veterinarian who knows your pet well.
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Can I give milk to my kitten?
Yes, if it’s kitten formula milk
From birth to weaning, kittens and puppies drink their mother’s milk. It contains all the nutrients and hydration needed for their growth.
However, it is sometimes necessary to give milk substitutes to kittens, for example, if their mother is unable to nurse them properly.
Kittens must therefore be bottle-fed. The milk to use is kitten formula milk, whose composition is similar to maternal milk. This nutrition is the most optimal for kittens’ healthy growth.
No, if it’s cow’s milk
Cow’s milk does not have the same composition as nursing cats’ milk. Thus, it does not properly meet the dietary needs of kittens (proteins, minerals, etc.).
For instance, all cats need an amino acid called taurine. This amino acid is provided by a balanced diet. However, cow’s milk is low in taurine.
When kittens do not have enough taurine, they may suffer from growth issues. For more information, I invite you to contact your veterinarian.
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Do cats digest cow’s milk?
When your feline drinks cow’s milk, the sugar it contains, called lactose, is then digested by an intestinal enzyme called β-galactosidase (also known as lactase).
This enzyme is present in all kittens but its activity decreases with age, as shown by this study.
Although kittens can digest lactose, it is not recommended to give them cow’s milk. For adults, it depends on their lactose tolerance and the amount of milk given.
Can I give milk to an adult cat?
Yes, in moderation, for those who tolerate lactose
Keep in mind that cats who tolerate cow’s milk can consume up to 20 mL per kg of body weight per day. This represents about 100 mL (maximum) of milk per day for a 5 kg cat.
However, cow’s milk should not be the main element of your cat’s diet and should be consumed in moderation.
I therefore recommend that you monitor the amount of milk you give to your cat.
Moreover, cow’s milk is high in fats. The main risk with regular consumption is weight gain for your small feline.
Yes, by diluting the milk with water
If you want to “treat” your cat, you can give them a little occasionally but keep in mind that milk is not essential for a cat.
Tip: you can dilute the milk with water. This also makes the water “appealing” for cats that do not drink much.
No, for intolerant cats
Cats that do not tolerate lactose cannot digest it. Undigested lactose can be the cause of digestive issues in these cats (diarrhea, gas, etc.).
If you give milk to your cat and notice that they have diarrhea, they are probably not lactose tolerant, and I advise against giving them more, even to please them.
Nonetheless, there are commercially available lactose-free milks (without lactose) that can be given to intolerant cats.
Why does my cat love milk?
Many owners think that milk is good for their cat because it loves to drink its small saucer.
Indeed, many cats enjoy the taste of milk, even if it causes them digestive issues… Just like us, who sometimes love certain foods that are not necessarily good for our health.
I recommend giving your cat a balanced diet which remains the best way to keep it healthy.
Milk should remain occasional, in small amounts and ideally diluted with water.
In any case, if your cat has consumed milk and shows digestive issues, I recommend contacting your veterinarian for support.
Sources and scientific studies
SEGALINI Vincent. “Characteristics of milk in dogs and cats.” Le Point Vétérinaire No. 291 from 01/12/2008, p. 29-32
DEVAUX Charlotte. “Ten misconceptions about cat nutrition.” La Semaine Vétérinaire No. 1696 from 15/11/2016, p. 28-29
