Is feeding your cat milk or milk products harmful? Well this depends on your cat. Most cats are lactose intolerant, this means that they lack the enzyme lactase in the stomach that breaks down the sugars in cows milk. This can lead to upset stomach and and diarrhea. However not all cats have this problem. As a general rule it is not necessary to feed your cat cows milk. If you find your cat can tolerate cows milk it is ok to give it as a treat in small doses every now and then. 

Just like humans, cats are born producing high levels of the lactase enzyme. This is due to the fact that kittens survive on a dieted of mothers milk for the first few week of their lives. Kittens will start to ween of their mothers milk from the 4 week mark onward. This means that the natural level of lactase produced starts to decrease.

Dairy and Cats

• cats and milk- Try feeding your cat a small amount of milk, i suggest giving it a teaspoon full. Then monitor your cats reaction over the next twenty four hours. If there are no signs of diarrhea or upset to the stomach then it is safe to say that your cat is not intolerant. 
• Cats with Yogurt- Yogurts can be high in sugars and high fructose corn syrup. If you are going to give your cat yogurt, I suggest that you find a plain yogurt that has no added sugar. This is sometimes prescribed as a home remedy for diarrhea. Your cat should not be eating more than a teaspoon of yogurt at a time. 
• Cats and Ice cream - Giving a small amount of ice cream is ok. In saying this, ice cream is not very good for cats because it is high in sugar and fat.

Adult cats do not need dairy in their diets, if your cat is not intolerant to lactose it is ok to give milk or dairy products as a treat.  It is possible to get a specially made milk replacement made specifically for cats. No matter how well your cat tolerates cows milk or dairy products, it is much better for you to encourage your cat to drink water.  Remember that treats of human food or dairy products should make up no more that five to ten percent of your cats total diet. The most important thing you can do for your cat is provide a balanced diet. Some treats on the side are fine, in moderation. 

- Dr. Liz