Is Milk Harmful to Cats? Find Out Why

Kittens love milk and they can drink and digest milk without a problem until they are approximately 8 weeks old.  After 8 weeks they are no longer able to digest cow’s milk. Kittens are born with a lactose enzyme that digests the lactose in milk.  Most cats older than 8 weeks are lactose intolerant and cannot digest the lactose found in milk.

Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and it can have a devastating effect on cats if it is not digested.  It can be painful for a cat to have such terrible experiences when they digest milk.  Cats are independent creatures and sometimes may not let their owners know something is wrong. A cat will experience stomach cramps, diarrhea and pain within 8-12 hours after drinking milk.  Although some cats are not in this category, it will be difficult to know unless you test your cat by giving him milk. Why would you risk your pet’s well being?

Instead of using cow’s milk, purchase a milk replacer which will give your cat all the nutrients they need without all the pain associated with drinking milk.  It will also put your mind at ease knowing your pet will not be suffering in pain.  

We love our pets and we want them to be happy and healthy at all times.  Make sure to keep milk replacers on hand.  The milk replacer supplies the proper vitamins and minerals to ensure proper development and growth for your cat so that they can maintain their active lifestyle.