Can cats drink milk?
It is best to skip it. The ASPCA points out that pets have little of the enzyme needed to digest milk sugar, so milk and other dairy can lead to diarrhea or an upset stomach. Water is all a cat needs to drink. Check with your vet before adding any new food or drink.
What the sources say
Lactose is the sugar in milk. Pets have very little lactase, the enzyme that breaks it down. [1]
Undigested lactose can lead to loose stools and an upset stomach, and that goes for dairy foods as well as milk. [1]
Keep a clean bowl of fresh water out every day. [2]
Extras like treats should make up only a small part of what your cat eats, around a tenth or less. [2]
🚩 When to see a vet
- Diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two
- Vomiting along with diarrhea
- Your cat stops eating or seems tired
In an emergency, call your vet or nearest emergency animal clinic.
🚨 Poison emergency: call now
- Trouble breathing
- Collapse
- Seizures
- Bloated belly or retching with nothing coming up
- Suspected poisoning (chocolate, xylitol, lilies for cats, grapes)
- Heavy bleeding
- Male cat straining to pee
- Pale gums
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply)
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (a fee applies)
FAQ
What about cheese or yogurt?
They are dairy too, so the same stomach upset can happen. The ASPCA treats all dairy the same way.
My cat drank some milk. Is that an emergency?
Usually not, but watch for diarrhea or vomiting and call your vet if it continues.
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, checked Oct 13, 2026
- ASPCA: General Cat Care, checked Oct 13, 2026
We summarize these sources in our own words. Dosing or home treatment amounts are never given here. Ask your vet.
