Can cats eat milk?
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant; milk commonly causes stomach upset and diarrhoea.
Why
Despite the image, milk often upsets cats.
Can cats eat milk, and why?
Despite the image, milk often upsets cats. Most adult cats are lactose intolerant; milk commonly causes stomach upset and diarrhoea.
Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get most of their nutrition from meat and need nutrients such as taurine that only animal products provide. They lack some enzymes for processing plants and carbohydrates, so fruit and veg offer little benefit and can upset their stomach; many cats are also lactose intolerant.
Warning — what to watch for
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant; milk commonly causes stomach upset and diarrhoea.
If your cat has eaten milk, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods cats might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding cats well:
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat milk?
Caution. Despite the image, milk often upsets cats.
What happens if my cat eats milk?
Most adult cats are lactose intolerant; milk commonly causes stomach upset and diarrhoea. If your cat has eaten milk, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is milk poisonous to cats?
Caution. Despite the image, milk often upsets cats.
Check milk for another pet