by Lauren Todd

Created on: March 25, 2010   Last Updated: March 27, 2010

For many cats milk is not a healthy choice. These cats should stay far away from milk and other dairy products with lactose, because they are what is known as, lactose intolerant. They get diarrhea and other digestive problems after lapping up some delicious white-colored liquid. Some cats do enjoy the occasional dairy snack though, without any adverse affects. It really depends on the cat.

Kittens are lactose intolerant because the ability to break down the lactose enzyme passes with the weaning phase of growth. Kittens cannot digest milk, if milk is given, the kitten will inevitably show adverse reactions, such as those described.

Lactose free milk is an option for fully grown cats who show lactose intolerance, so is the specially formulated milk made specifically for cats who love milk but cannot digest it. It can be found in a purple juice-like box at your local pet store. One other substitute that might work for your cat is either soy or rice milk.

A few adult cats, (including mine) have no problem with digestion at all, drinking milk. For these cats try fat free milk, my cat is happy to drink the same organic fat free milk that I do, often out of my glass when I am not looking! Some cats really enjoy ice cream or whipped cream. Small amounts are fine, but your cat’s diet should never consist of more than five percent or so, dairy foods. The nutritional value of dairy for your cat is very low, your cat does not need milk, your cat simply likes the taste. Milk in any form should not replace water as your cat’s primary nutritional source for nutrients in her/his diet, as it is a treat, not a dietary supplement. Your feline will relish the occasional indulgence and receive the liquid benefits at the same time.

A cat can go its whole life without drinking any cow’s milk, but just after a cat is born, it is only its mother’s milk that provides the essential nutrients that the kitten needs to grow up strong and healthy. The reason cats like milk is because the taste reminds them of it, it might even be considered a psychological need in cats.

Milk and cats can be a great combination or a really bad one. For the reasons mentioned cats tend to love milk, so as long as your cat does not experience a round of the runs or an upset tummy, let him/her lap up the good stuff, as it can make your cat happy and there is nothing better that, for when a cat is done with their favorite treat, they will most likely clean themselves and go to sleep and there is no picture of greater contentment than a curled up cat sleeping soundly, looking at them you would believe that all is right with the world.

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