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Most of us have heard the term “the cat that got the cream”, derived from the fact that many of our feline friends love the taste of milk/dairy, but it makes you wonder: can cats drink milk? Is it harmful? Healthy? Or fine to drink in small amounts?
Despite the common belief that cow’s milk is a treat we can give to cats as a drinking option, it is in fact not good for their health and should generally be avoided. If fed, it should only be in small amounts as part of recipes specifically formulated for cats. Otherwise, water is the safest option to keep cats hydrated as part of a balanced diet.
Rory the Vet is here to explain all.
MEET RORY THE VET
Starting with his degree from the Royal Veterinary College, Rory has since co-starred in the CBBC’s series The Pet Factor, shared his knowledge on the likes of Blue Peter and written all about it in his book, Secret Life of a Vet.
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Why do cats drink milk?
Cats may be drawn to the taste of milk because of its high fat content. Cow’s milk may even remind them of the milk their mother fed them during kittenhood. But kittens are more able to digest milk as they have an enzyme in their stomachs that allows them to break down lactose from their mother’s milk. Adult cats no longer have this ability.
Is milk good for cats?
Cow’s milk is not good for cats for several reasons. As briefly mentioned earlier, as cats grow, they often lose the enzyme needed to properly break down milk, making these cats lactose intolerant. For felines with this condition, milk can cause various gastrointestinal upset, including the following:
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Gas
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Abdominal pain
There are other indications that can suggest that something may be bothering your cat, such as body language. My guide can help you spot signs that your cat may be in discomfort.
Not all cats are lactose intolerant. However, this does not mean that they should drink cow’s milk or any other dairy product due to the fact that they are high in fat. Feeding your cat milk on a daily basis would add unnecessary extra fats and sugars into their diet which can lead to weight gain.
Can cats drink milk alternatives?
It is best to avoid all milk alternatives, including oat, soy, almond and coconut milk. You might have seen cat milk in your pet shop or supermarket. Although these are tailored especially for cats and therefore safe to drink, they’re high in calories, just like cow’s milk. Since cats are prone to obesity, it’s a good idea to check the label and consult with your vet if you plan on including in your cat’s diet. In addition, some of these alternatives may be made with things that can be toxic to your cat to digest, including:
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Added sugars, oils, and thickeners that aren’t particularly healthy for cats
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Additives and preservatives which can be hard on a cat’s digestive system
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Added salt content, which may not be ideal for cats with hypertension or kidney disease
To support your cat’s health and waistline, I recommend sticking to fresh water and fresh water only. Always make sure your little friend has a clean bowl available throughout the day.
Can kittens drink milk?
Young kittens nurse from their mother until they are weaned. The mother’s milk is rich in antibodies that help protect kittens against diseases. Once they get to 3-4 weeks of age, kittens will begin exploring solid foods and gradually start drinking water alongside their mum’s milk. They usually become fully weaned at around nine weeks at which point they should be lapping up water and not needing their mum’s milk anymore.
Kittens should not be given any alternative milks that isn’t their mother’s.
For more of my advice on caring for kitten, see here.
Final Thoughts
For the best interests of our feline companions, we must give them fresh water every day, and steer clear of cow’s milk and its substitutes. If you wish to provide your kitty with variety, there are a few ways you can make water more appealing, for instance, by using a cat water fountain or by adding a couple of teaspoons of water to their wet food.
Any additional queries or concerns, as always, please consult with your veterinarian.
The information in this article is intended as a guide to help pets and pet parents on their journey together. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for professional advice from a vet, behaviourist, trainer or other professional. We encourage all pet parents to consult with their vet and/or behaviourist to ensure their pet’s specific needs are met.
Published on 26/02/2026
