Can Cats Drink Milk?
Caution — the image of cats lapping milk is a myth: most adult cats are lactose intolerant, and cow's milk causes diarrhea. A cat's drink is water; if you offer milk, make it lactose-free cat milk, occasionally and in small amounts.
Last reviewed: July 24, 2026
Where the myth comes from
Cats love the fat and smell of milk, so they drink it eagerly — but liking is not digesting. After weaning, lactase declines in most cats, and cow's milk ends in gas, cramps, and diarrhea. Full-fat milk and cream add pointless calories on top of the lactose.
The "cat milk" sold in stores is lactose-removed and fine as an occasional small treat. Daily hydration should still come from fresh water and wet food.
Kittens and milk
An orphaned kitten must not get cow's milk — diarrhea quickly becomes dangerous dehydration in a kitten. Use a kitten milk replacer recommended by your veterinarian.
Frequently asked questions
My cat loves milk — can I give it now and then?
Lactose-free cat milk occasionally and in small amounts is fine. A few cats do tolerate regular cow's milk, but finding out usually costs a bout of diarrhea — not worth it.
What should I offer instead?
Always fresh water; to increase drinking, wet food, a water fountain, or a little water mixed into meals work well.
Can I share cream or milky desserts?
No — heavy fat and sugar pile on top of the lactose. Milky desserts and cream are not cat-appropriate.
Related answers
Sources
This guide is based on publications from the following veterinary bodies. Where sources differ, we take the more cautious position; the final decision is always your veterinarian's.