Some people are surprised to learn that many cats can’t tolerate cow’s milk. While a kitten may be able to digest mother cat’s milk, it can be a very different story when it comes to cow’s milk. Lactose intolerance occurs when a cat is unable to break down the sugar in milk.
Symptoms of lactose intolerance in felines can include vomiting and diarrhea. Cats suffering from lactose intolerance may drink extra water to make up for dehydration. While some dairy products can cause diarrhea in sensitive cats, digesting other dairy products can have the opposite effect. Cheese may cause constipation in cats!
If a cat is fed a lot of dairy, skin irritation may also occur. If you’re concerned that your cat is lactose intolerant, talk with your vet and play it safe by not feeding dairy products. Visit the pet store for cat-safe milk substitutes like Cat-Sip that contain essential dietary requirements like taurine. Though my cat longs for ice cream, he’ll accept Cat-Sip!
Do you give dairy products to your cat?
(Image via flickr/Ryan Wick)
Post from: Blisstree