The Scary Reason You Should NEVER Give Your Cat Milk
Did you know that, contrary to popular belief, cats should NOT drink milk?
It seems so natural to assume that cats need milk: they seem to love it, after all, and so many images in our heads from movies and pop culture pair these two together so harmoniously. But did you know that, in reality, it can actually be extremely dangerous for your cat's health?
Most adult cats are, in fact, lactose intolerant. Like many other babies, they need it when they're kittens. However, once they are weaned, they not only no longer require it in their diets, but their bodies also gradually lose the ability to properly digest the lactose.
There is particular danger in the typical cow's milk that most of us humans drink. This milk is extremely difficult for cats to digest, and sometimes they cannot process it at all. It then gives them cramps, upset stomachs, and even diarrhea – a symptom that severely dehydrates the body and can even be fatal for kittens.
So you should never, ever pour your cat a saucer of milk from your fridge!
What can you give them instead?
Well, all they really need is water! Adult cats can get all the other vitamins and nutrients they need from a well-balanced diet.
However, you can also find special types of lactose-reduced milk at certain pet stores or from your vet. Because these formulas are created with cats in mind (not humans), they're safe for your cat to ingest. And if your cat likes them, this can be a nice healthy treat.
If you're ever unsure about giving your cat something, especially products not made expressly for felines, make sure you consult with a veterinarian about the product first.
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