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Dairy
Can Cats Eat Milk?
dangerousCauses digestive upset in most pets
verified_userReviewed by Clawmate Vet Team•Updated January 2026
Quick Answer
Despite stereotypes, most adult dogs and cats are lactose intolerant.
🐱Specifically for Cats
The classic "bowl of milk for cats" is actually bad for most cats! Use cat-specific milk if needed.
The Full Story
Puppies and kittens produce lactase to digest mother's milk, but most adult pets lose this ability. Cow's milk can cause digestive upset, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Water is always the best beverage for pets. If your pet enjoys dairy, try lactose-free pet milk products.
⚠️ Important Warnings
- closeMost adult pets are lactose intolerant
- closeCan cause diarrhea and upset stomach
- closeSpecial pet milk products exist
- closeWater is always best
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats eat milk?▼
Causes digestive upset in most pets. Despite stereotypes, most adult dogs and cats are lactose intolerant. The classic "bowl of milk for cats" is actually bad for most cats! Use cat-specific milk if needed.
Is milk safe for cats?▼
Puppies and kittens produce lactase to digest mother's milk, but most adult pets lose this ability. Cow's milk can cause digestive upset, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Water is always the best beverage for pets. If your pet enjoys dairy, try lactose-free pet milk products.