Can cats drink milk alternatives?

No, plant and nut-based milks such as oat, soy, almond, or coconut are not safe for cats. These can upset their digestion just like cow’s milk. Specially formulated cat milks with reduced lactose are available, but they should only be given occasionally and in moderation.

Why do cats like milk?

Cats are often drawn to milk because of its high fat content, which gives it an appealing taste. If served cold and fresh, it can seem even more attractive. Milk may also remind cats of kittenhood, making it feel like comfort food. Still, water is the healthier choice for hydration.

What happens if a cat drinks a little bit of milk?

Milk can cause digestive upset, but a small lick or drop is unlikely to cause serious harm. Owners should monitor their cat afterward for signs like vomiting, gas, or diarrhea. If symptoms appear, avoid offering milk again. For safe hydration, stick to water and balanced cat food instead.

Can cats drink watered down cow's milk?

No, watered down cow’s milk is still unsafe. Diluting milk only lowers fat and calorie content but does not remove lactose, the sugar cats cannot digest. Even small amounts may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or gas.

Brown tabby cat drinking from a stainless-steel food bowl indoors on a wooden floor

Cat and Cow Milk: Can Cats Drink Milk?

For decades, pop culture has shown kittens and cats happily drinking bowls of milk. This wholesome association has led many people to believe that cats and cow milk naturally go together. But like many cat parents out there, you may have wondered at some point: can cats drink milk?

Contrary to popular belief, the truth is that cats and cow milk aren’t supposed to go together. In fact, serving a bowl normally causes more harm than good since most cats can’t properly digest milk. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about your cat and cow milk. You'll learn why milk isn’t the healthy treat many think it is, the risks it poses, and the safe alternatives you can consider!

Can Cats Digest Cow Milk? Are Cats Lactose Intolerant?

No, most adult cats cannot digest cow’s milk because they are lactose intolerant. In the case of kittens, they are born with an enzyme called lactase that allows them to break down the lactose (the sugar in milk) that they drink from their mother’s milk. But as they mature and are weaned, lactase levels drop sharply. By around six months, most cats can no longer process milk properly.

The lack of lactase means undigested lactose passes into the large intestine, where it ferments and causes problems. Symptoms of lactose intolerance in cats include vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, and stomach pain. Cow's milk is also high in fat, which not only upsets digestion but can also interfere with healthy weight management.

Are Some Cats Able to Drink Milk?

While most cats are lactose intolerant and struggle to digest cow’s milk, a small number of cats can drink it without problems. These exceptions usually occur when a cat continues producing enough of the enzyme lactase to handle lactose even after kittenhood. But even if some cats drink milk without discomfort, that doesn’t make it an essential part of a healthy cat diet.

Risks of Giving Cats Cow Milk

Offering cats cow milk may seem like an act of love, but the reality is that they shouldn't be consuming it. Pasteurisation changes the protein structure in cow’s milk, while homogenization breaks fat particles into smaller molecules that can leak into the gut and irritate digestion.

Also keep in mind that processed dairy products like cheese, cream, and ice cream can also cause the same issues. Beyond immediate discomfort, milk and dairy add unnecessary fat and sugar, which will make it difficult for you to stay on top of your cat’s nutrition.

Let’s look at some of the most common risks of giving cats cow milk.

Vomiting

Some cats may vomit after drinking cow’s milk since their digestive systems are not built to handle lactose. This reaction is uncomfortable and can lead to a temporary loss of appetite until recovery. However, persistent cat vomiting with recurring symptoms may point to an underlying health issue and should be discussed with a veterinarian.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the clearest signs of lactose intolerance in cats. When undigested milk sugars reach the intestine, they draw water into the gut, resulting in loose, watery stools. Even serving a small amount can quickly lead to dehydration.

Flatulence

Cats don’t usually pass much gas, so if your cat starts farting after drinking milk, it’s a clear sign their stomach is upset. The sugars in milk that aren’t digested can cause gas to build up, leaving your cat bloated and uncomfortable.

Abdominal pain and bloating

If your cat’s belly looks swollen after drinking milk, it may be a sign of bloating from trapped gas. This can make them restless, less playful, or sensitive if you touch their stomach.

Obesity

Milk gives cats extra calories but not the nutrients they need. Just like in people, obesity can shorten a cat’s life and raise the risk of related complications like diabetes, sore joints, and heart disease. Keeping milk out of their diet supports a healthier weight and eventually improve your cat’s longevity.

Nutritional imbalance

Milk is often just empty calories for cats. As obligate carnivores, they rely on nutrients like taurine and Vitamin A, which they normally acquire through animal sources. Beyond digestive issues, too much milk can also make cats less interested in eating proper food.

What About Kittens and Milk?

Kittens do need milk, but only from their mother or a specially formulated kitten milk replacer. Cow’s milk does not provide the same essential nutrients and can cause digestive issues, so kitten feeding must be done with utmost care.

Kitten development is quick and as early as eight weeks, kittens begin to lose the enzyme lactase that allows them to digest milk sugars. By the time they are fully weaned, most have already started the transition toward eating solid food and offering cow’s milk at this stage can just cause digestive issues.

What Can Cats Drink Instead of Milk?

While many cats may be curious about milk, the healthiest drink they can have is always fresh, clean water. Proper hydration is essential for a cat’s wellbeing by supporting kidney function, digestion, and other vital systems. Some cats can be fussy about drinking plain water, but there are easy ways to encourage them:

Running water

Use a dripping faucet or a pet fountain to appeal to cats who prefer moving water.

Cool water

Drop in a couple of ice cubes for cats who enjoy a chilled drink.

Wet cat food

Wet cat food has a naturally high moisture content, making it a great way to hydrate your cat. Along with supporting fluid intake, products like WHISKAS® Tuna provide complete and balanced nutrition with a delicious taste.

Mixed cat food

If your cat prefers dry food, consider adding a few chunks of wet cat food. This small change boosts their fluid intake while still letting them enjoy their usual dry food.

For kittens, fresh water should be introduced gradually alongside solid food during weaning (around 3–4 weeks of age). Adult cats, meanwhile, need consistent access to clean water as part of a complete and balanced diet. To find out how much water your cat needs daily, make sure to read up on our cat hydration guide.

Healthy Cats Start with Smarter Food Choices

The association of cats and cow milk has been around for years, but the truth is far less wholesome. Cats can’t digest milk properly, and what looks like a treat often causes short and long-term health issues. For a happy, healthy, and thriving cat, the real essentials are simple: fresh water and complete and balanced cat food.

If you want to learn more about keeping your cat nourished and cared for every day, take some time to visit the WHISKAS® Blog. From nutrition guides to health and wellness advice, you’ll discover proven tips for cat and kitten care.

Frequently Asked Questions

All Questions Cat and Cow Milk

Can cats drink milk alternatives?

No, plant and nut-based milks such as oat, soy, almond, or coconut are not safe for cats. These can upset their digestion just like cow’s milk. Specially formulated cat milks with reduced lactose are available, but they should only be given occasionally and in moderation.
Why do cats like milk?

Cats are often drawn to milk because of its high fat content, which gives it an appealing taste. If served cold and fresh, it can seem even more attractive. Milk may also remind cats of kittenhood, making it feel like comfort food. Still, water is the healthier choice for hydration.
What happens if a cat drinks a little bit of milk?

Milk can cause digestive upset, but a small lick or drop is unlikely to cause serious harm. Owners should monitor their cat afterward for signs like vomiting, gas, or diarrhea. If symptoms appear, avoid offering milk again. For safe hydration, stick to water and balanced cat food instead.
Can cats drink watered down cow's milk?

No, watered down cow’s milk is still unsafe. Diluting milk only lowers fat and calorie content but does not remove lactose, the sugar cats cannot digest. Even small amounts may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, or gas.