Explaining the Symptoms and Treatments When a Cat Drinks Milk

Isn't there a common image that cats love milk?

Actually, milk is a "no-go" for cats. It might seem healthy, but it can actually upset a cat's stomach when they drink it.

It is helpful to know what symptoms might occur and how to deal with them if your cat has ingested milk.

Why you shouldn't give milk to cats

While milk is a food with high nutritional value, it is not so for cats.

Because certain nutrients contained in milk can harm a cat's health, you should not give milk to your cat.

Inability to digest lactose

It is well known that cats develop diarrhea when they drink milk. The reason for this is that they cannot properly digest the components found in it.

Milk contains a component called "lactose," but adult cats do not have much lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose.

Because of this, they experience indigestion known as "lactose intolerance."

Milk allergies

Proteins in milk called "casein" and "whey" can act as allergens, causing allergic reactions. Be careful, as even a small amount can lead to anaphylactic shock.

Increased risk of kidney disease and urinary stones

When people think of nutrition in milk, they think of "calcium," but if a cat consumes too much calcium, they become prone to developing urinary stones. Similarly, "phosphorus" also increases the risk of urinary stones and chronic kidney disease.

Causes obesity

Milk contains more lactose than cat's milk, but less protein and fat. Because it is high in calories, it can also be a cause of obesity.

Symptoms when a cat drinks milk

When your cat has ingested milk, the main concerns are "lactose intolerance" and "milk allergy."

In both cases, symptoms often appear within 30 minutes to an hour. If your cat has accidentally consumed milk, carefully observe them for the following symptoms.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance

Most adult cats cannot break down lactose, which leads to digestive issues.

• Diarrhea
• Soft stools
• Abdominal pain
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss

Symptoms of milk allergy

In the case of a milk allergy, symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting are seen just like with lactose intolerance. Skin symptoms such as hives and itching may also occur.

In severe cases, it can lead to anaphylactic shock. Be aware that cheese and yogurt can also cause milk allergies.

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Itchy skin
• Hives
• Difficulty breathing

What to do if your cat has drunk milk

What should you do if your cat has licked up some milk?

Some cats may not show symptoms if the amount was small, but they might develop some signs after a little while. You should keep an eye on them for at least two hours.

If vomiting or diarrhea persists, or if they continue to show signs of being itchy, visit a veterinarian.

Whether diluted or warmed, milk is likely to upset their stomach...

Even if you dilute or warm the milk, cats cannot digest the lactose, so it will still upset their stomach.

While kittens can digest lactose, the composition of mother's milk and cow's milk is different. Cow's milk often causes diarrhea, so even if you rescue a hungry kitten, do not give them cow's milk.

Always make sure to provide milk specifically formulated for cats.

Beware of accidental ingestion of dairy products!

Many owners notice their cat getting curious and leaning in when they are drinking milk, or begging for yogurt or cheese.

However, as mentioned above, cats cannot digest lactose and can develop milk allergies, so milk is a no-go for them.

Be careful about accidental ingestion of drinks with lots of milk, such as café au lait or boba tea. For the sake of your curious cat, using a lidded container is a safe choice.

Summary

There is an image that cats love milk, but in reality, it often causes them to have an upset stomach.

The causes are lactose intolerance and milk allergies. Besides vomiting and diarrhea, there is also the concern of anaphylactic shock.

While milk is a nutritious food for humans, it contains many components unnecessary for cats. Since it increases the risk of obesity and kidney disease, there is no need to give milk to your cat.

Take precautions to ensure they do not accidentally drink milk.

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