Frequently Asked Questions About Cats and Milk

Before kittens are weaned they drink mother's milk. During this time, kittens produce an enzyme (lactase) that allows them to easily digest the milk sugar (lactose) found in milk. This enzyme breaks down milk sugars and allows the vitamins and nutrients in feline mother's milk to be absorbed by the kitten. When a kitten is about 4 weeks old, however, the ability to produce lactase is lost. And when the kitten can no longer produce the enzyme necessary to digest milk sugars, he becomes lactose intolerant. Therefore, kittens should not be given dairy milk after they are weaned.

As straightforward as this is, there are still questions surrounding feline consumption of dairy milk. This article addresses frequently asked questions about cats and milk.

What if the kitten is young and feline mother's milk is not available?

If a kitten has been orphaned or his mother is not producing milk, cow's milk is not a good substitute for mother's milk. Feline mother's milk is rich in essential fats, proteins and acids required for kittens to develop into healthy adult cats. Consult your veterinarian to determine the optimum milk-replacement formula and to establish a feeding schedule for the young kitten.

How is milk harmful to cats?

Since most kittens cannot digest lactose after weaning, they will likely get an upset stomach and loose stools or diarrhea if given milk. Diarrhea poses a serious health risk in kittens and young cats, and can lead to extreme dehydration.

Furthermore, more than half of the protein in milk comes from casein. This is problematic because feline retinal degeneration has been linked to cats consuming large amounts of casein.

What if my cat doesn't drink enough fluids?

If you think your cat doesn't consume sufficient fluids, milk is not the answer. Encourage your cat to drink water. Have clean water available in more than one location. Rinse the bowls daily and keep them full of fresh water.

Why do cats drink milk in movies and books?

It's true, many movies and books portray the beloved family cat lapping gently out of a saucer of milk as he purrs softly. This is fiction. But if you want to recreate this scene, if you want to treat your cat and think milk is a natural choice, do not choose regular milk. There are special milks developed specifically for cats.

What exactly is milk for cats?

Milk for felines is not milk from cats. Popular brands of cat milk are made with real dairy milk that has been altered to accommodate the digestive problems associated with a cat's lactose intolerance. In most cases, lactase, the enzyme necessary to break down lactose, is added to this specially formulated milk. Additionally, most commercial cat milks contain vitamins and nutrients for cats' eyes and for feline heart health. Milk for cats can be found on the pet aisle in some grocery stores, in pet specialty stores and in veterinarian clinics.

Source:
Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/