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Can Cats Eat Milk?
Please read the risks below before offering any.
Is milk safe for cats?
Milk is a dairy drink, common as cow's milk but also available from goats and plants. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant, despite the popular image of cats drinking milk, so milk often causes diarrhea and should be avoided. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need milk. If you offer it at all, treat it as a rare, tiny extra.
How to reduce the risks if you offer milk
- If you offer any at all, use a small splash of plain milk, not a bowlful
- Watch for loose stools afterward
- Consider a lactose-free pet milk sold at pet stores instead
What to avoid
- Large amounts, which are likely to cause diarrhea
- Flavored or sweetened milk
- Milk for cats already prone to digestive upset
How much milk can my cat have?
If you decide to offer milk despite the cautions above, give just one tiny taste and check with your vet first, especially if your cat has any health condition. When in doubt, skip it.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat milk?
Because milk needs extra caution for adult cats, it is best to avoid it for kittens.
What if my cat ate too much milk?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
Should milk be a regular part of my cat's diet?
No. We recommend not making milk a regular part of your cat's diet.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Milk?