Lactose intolerance in cats? Milk & Kittens: Why They Don't Mix

Water is the only liquid that cats should truly consume to be hydrated. Contrary to common perception, milk is bad for cats, therefore it's best to avoid dairy altogether. With this tutorial, learn why milk is hazardous for cats and more.

Lactose intolerance in cats? Milk & Kittens: Why They Don't Mix

You might have always thought that cats enjoy drinking milk. However, cats actually cannot tolerate lactose. Learn more about why milk is not the ideal choice for feline feasts to improve your cat's nutrition.

You may have learned that cats adore nothing more than to lap up a dish of milk from reading picture books as a youngster. Even while some cats might like the reward, milk isn't a very good source of nutrients for cats, it turns out. Lactose intolerance affects cats. Their bodies are unable to effectively metabolize the milk products they consume. Before placing a bowl of milk down, find out more about how it could affect your pet.

You might have always thought that cats enjoy drinking milk. However, cats actually cannot tolerate lactose. 

You may have learned that cats adore nothing more than to lap up a dish of milk from reading picture books as a youngster. Even while some cats might like the reward, milk isn't a very good source of nutrients for cats, it turns out. Lactose intolerance affects cats. Their bodies are unable to effectively metabolize the milk products they consume. Before placing a bowl of milk down, find out more about how it could affect your pet.

 

How Do Cats Affect By Lactose Intolerance?

Heinze notes that some cats might not exhibit these symptoms but that GI discomfort, such as diarrhea or vomiting, are the most typical indications of lactose intolerance. She continues that it's also easy for pet owners to be ignorant of these intolerance-related warning signals, particularly if you have a cat that spends time outside where their potty habits are not closely watched, as opposed to cats who always use the litter box.

The milk that my cat drinks has never made her ill. What Happens?

Giving milk to cats has no nutritional advantages, even if they consume it and do not become ill (just like people, some cats can tolerate milk better than others). When cats are weaned from their mother's milk, they no longer have the capacity to absorb lactose. Although some research suggests that cheese and other dairy products may be simpler for cats to digest, experts like Heinze caution pet owners that just because your kitty like a certain dish doesn't mean you have to give it to them.

As Heinze notes, obesity is the biggest health issue for cats. "If you feel strongly that you are going to feed your cat milk on a daily basis, then you need to evaluate how many calories it is contributing to their diet so you aren't contributing to [weight gain]," he advises. Additionally, keep in mind that milk does not provide cats with a full diet.

What Treats Can I Give My Cat Instead of Milk That Are Safe?

Dietary requirements for cats are rather basic. She must consume nutritious cat food that contains animal proteins on a regular basis as cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that meat must be a part of their diet. She also needs to drink fresh, clean water every day. If you do decide to offer your cat milk, treat it like a treat and start with a tiny quantity to see how they react.

Heinze advises limiting the amount of goodies you give your cat to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake, including milk. Typically, it implies consuming no more than 20 to 30 calories daily. Skim milk has 83 calories per cup, whereas full milk has 149 calories per cup. Thus, a little truly does go a long way.

When it comes to bottle-fed kittens that still require their mother's milk, seek a number kitten milk replacement formula product rather than regular cow's milk. Pay particular attention to the number of calories various milk products sold for cats in the pet food section contribute to your cat's diet. To develop a strategy to assist your cat in maintaining a balanced diet, speak with your veterinarian or enlist the assistance of a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.

Cats probably appreciate yogurt and milk because they can smell the proteins and lipids in them. One idea holds that they have an enhanced sense of smell[1] to compensate for their less sensitive taste reception, which may explain why they frequently sniff their food before eating. Taste, however, is still crucial, and cats frequently choose the flavor of diets heavy in fat and protein. Cats are nevertheless interested in dairy even if it causes digestive issues since it combines pleasant aromas and flavors.

If you don't have access to a cow and are aware that buying dairy products at the store is not a wise choice, what are your alternatives for something savory and hydrating?

Treats Your Cat Won't Regret Eating

You might try giving your cat lactose-free milk, but there's a significant possibility they won't like it for the reasons already stated (no smell of delicious fatty cream).

Your cat might be able to consume small amounts of cultured plain yogurt or another cultured dairy product. Dairy and dairy products that have been cultured have had some of the lactose digested, making it a bit more pleasant. Test a little quantity first because there is still no assurance that your cat won't experience stomach problems after consuming it. You can give them a small bit every now and then as a special treat if they manage it well over the course of the following 18 to 24 hours. Get a water fountain for your cat if you can. It may also be used as amusement for cats, encouraging them to drink more water. flavored water for them. To offer them a tasty drink without upsetting their stomachs, try low-sodium chicken broth or tuna juice.