Milk is good for cats

Why the myth exists

Cats often love the taste of milk and cream, and the image of a cat with a saucer of milk is everywhere. But liking something isn’t the same as it being good for them.

What happens in a cat’s gut

Kittens make an enzyme called lactase that lets them digest their mother’s milk. As cats grow up, most make much less of it, just like many adult people. Without enough lactase, the sugar in milk (lactose) isn’t digested properly.

The most common result is diarrhoea, usually within 8 to 12 hours. Some cats also get an upset stomach or vomit.

Kittens

Even kittens shouldn’t have cow’s milk. Vets say cow’s milk isn’t suitable for kittens. Orphaned or fostered kittens need a kitten milk replacer from a vet or pet shop.

If your cat loves it

• Milk isn’t needed in a cat’s diet at all.
• Some cats handle a spoonful or two as an occasional treat. Watch for loose stools over the next day.
• Lactose-free milk or cat milk products are gentler options.
• Treats of any kind should stay under about 5% to 10% of what your cat eats.