It’s nearly impossible to find a cartoon that doesn’t mention how much cats love to drink milk. In fact, in most animated movies, cats only drink milk and nothing else. So, it’s rational to ask, can cats really drink milk?
And, can cats have condensed milk?
Well, the short answer is NO. Cats cannot have condensed milk. This is because most adult felines out there are lactose intolerant. Plus, condensed milk is loaded with sugar that can lead to severe health problems. Keep on reading to learn possible health risks related to condensed milk to your cat.
Table of Contents
Cats And Milk
Giving your feline milk surely seems like a healthier option. However, this couldn’t be far from the truth. Only kittens can consume milk as they are not truly lactose intolerant. Just like humans, cats also need lactase – an enzyme that processes milk.
However, most cats do not have this enzyme. As a result, they can get severely ill and suffer from gastrointestinal problems.
Condensed Milk
Condensed milk is certainly a no-no for your little furball. This type of milk is loaded with sweeteners that are harmful to your cat. The sugar available in condensed milk can cause an upset stomach and lead to gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting and diarrhea.
Evaporated Milk
Most people out there think condensed milk is the same as evaporated milk. However, this couldn’t be any far from the truth. Evaporated milk is pure cow’s milk that has been evaporated. Unlike condensed milk, this type of milk is free from sweeteners.
Is it safe for cats to drink evaporated milk? Well, not exactly. Although this milk is free from sugar, it still contains lactose that can lead to gastrointestinal problems, including gas, bloating, vomiting and diarrhea. Plus, evaporated milk is rich in unsaturated fat that can cause weight gain and obesity.
Is Condensed Milk Okay for Cats?
No, even a small amount of condensed milk is off-limit to your little feline friend. According to most veterinarians, condensed milk is the worst type of milk you can offer a cat, and here’s why:
Health Risks
Felines have a pretty sensitive stomach. Even a little irresponsibility can lead to severe health problems. For instance, if you offer your cat dairy products, gastrointestinal pain, gassiness, loose stools, and diarrhea can develop.
Milk Allergies
According to an estimate, a third of cats are allergic to lactose as well as casein – a protein found in dairy products. These allergies can lead to hives, stomach pain and even redness on the skin. Therefore, instead of taking risks, you should stick with healthier, commercial cat food.
Conclusion
Can cats have condensed milk? No, condensed milk is loaded with sugar, lactose and fat that are harmful to your little feline. While sugar can cause obesity and other weight-related issues, lactose intolerance can lead to gastrointestinal issues like gassiness, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea.
To avoid all these problems, you should always consult with your veterinarian before altering your feline’s diet!
Leave a Reply