Cats and Oat Milk: Insights From a Veterinarian
Cats are unique creatures with specific dietary needs that differ significantly from humans. One question that often arises is whether cats can drink milk, particularly plant-based alternatives like oat milk.
Firstly, it's important to note that water is the only liquid cats genuinely need to stay healthy and hydrated. Lactose-free milks or plant-based alternatives do not offer any significant nutritional value for cats. In fact, an occasional sip of oat milk should not form a part of a cat's regular diet. This is because oat milk is relatively high in carbohydrates, which cats do not process efficiently.
Cats do not have a biological need for milk after they have been fully weaned from their mother, which usually happens between eight and 10 weeks of age. Many cats are lactose intolerant and drinking cow's milk can result in digestive upsets such as diarrhea, bloating, or abdominal discomfort.
However, there are exceptions. Veterinarians commonly recommend special lactose-free or specifically formulated cat milk because it has significantly less lactose than regular cow's milk, making it gentler on cats' digestive systems and reducing the risk of stomach upset. Goat milk (lactose-reduced) may be gentler on a cat's digestive system compared to cow's milk.
It's crucial to remember that cats have specific dietary requirements that come almost exclusively from animal proteins. Commercially prepared kitten milk replacers, such as KMR or Cimicat, are specifically designed for orphaned kittens or those unable to nurse from their mother. These products are scientifically tailored to provide the right levels of protein, fat, and essential nutrients that a growing kitten requires. Once a kitten has been weaned onto solid food, kitten milk replacers are no longer appropriate or necessary.
The gold standard for kitten milk is PetAg KMR Kitten Milk Replacer Powder for Kittens, which contains pre- and probiotics, essential protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. It's important to make sure the oat milk is plain and unsweetened, as some sweeteners, such as xylitol, are highly toxic to cats and must be strictly avoided.
Regular consumption of oat milk can contribute to gradual weight gain, particularly in indoor cats. Obesity is one of the most common health issues in cats, and extra calories from milk can contribute to this gradual weight gain. Learning how to tell if your cat is obese is a key skill for any owner.
In conclusion, while cats can drink oat milk without immediate harm due to it being lactose-free, it is not a suitable substitute for water or a necessary part of a cat's diet. It's best to stick to water for your cat's hydration needs and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your cat's diet or weight.
