Why You’ll Regret Giving A Maine Coon Milk
TV shows often show cats licking up milk, but can Maine Coons drink milk? And, is it safe to feed your gentle giant this dairy drink?
Maine Coons should not drink milk because they do not carry the enzyme lactase that digests lactose found in milk. Cow’s milk doesn’t contain the essential nutrients required for a healthy cat’s diet, because it has a high fat content and sugar.
Drinking milk may cause your feline friend indigestion, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Can Maine Coons Drink Milk?
The short answer is that Maine Coon cats should not be fed milk by their pet parents because it can cause them stomach upsets, like a loose stool, even in small quantities.
Instead, feed your gentle giant plenty of water, in water bowls large enough for them to pat the water around to make it ‘fresh’, whilst also playing with it!
Better still, why not purchase your furry friend a pet water fountain?
Below are the key reasons why cat owners should not give their Maine Coon cats a bowl of milk to drink:
1. Lactose-Intolerance
Many cats are lactose intolerant because they do not have the lactase enzyme needed to digest lactose, leading to gastrointestinal upset.
Despite being born with this enzyme which they use as kittens to drink their mom’s milk, they lose it as they grow older, making them lactose intolerant.
2. Digestive Issues
Milk can lead to indigestion, and in some cases can cause your cat to have diarrhea, and vomiting, which will end up making your cat dehydrated.
Even a saucer of milk could cause your furry friend to experience abdominal pain or an upset stomach.
3. High-Fat Content
Milk is very high in fat, and low in other nutrients that your cat requires, e.g. protein.
Drinking milk can lead to weight gain, and a cat full-on milk might not eat its cat food, which contains the basic nutritional needs it requires to stay strong and healthy.
Milk lacks essential nutrients necessary for a cat’s diet and may lead to malnutrition if given in excess.
4. Obesity
Milk is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain and obesity in cats if consumed regularly.
Consider offering milk alternatives for your feline companion, such as cat milk.
5. Dental Problems
The sugars in milk can promote dental decay and contribute to oral health issues in cats.
6. Potential Allergies
Some cats may be allergic to components in milk, leading to allergic reactions, skin problems, or food allergies.
7. Displacement Of Water
Consuming milk may lead to a decrease in water intake, increasing the risk of dehydration in cats.
Why Would Cats Drink Milk If Lactose Intolerant?
The domestic cats we know and love today originally evolved in the desert, where they had to be crafty about finding food.
Cats therefore love milk because they are programmed to enjoy foods high in fat that would have been advantageous in the dry, harsh desert.
Drinking milk will likely result in indigestion and potentially unhealthy amounts of weight gain. It also doesn’t contain the essential nutrients cats need (source 1).
A cat might also enjoy drinking milk due to positive memories of doing so in the past.
Can Cats Drink Lactose-Free Milk?
Felines can consume lactose-free cat milk as it lacks the lactose that causes digestive issues in lactose-intolerant cats.
However, it’s essential to offer lactose-free milk in moderation and as an occasional treat, as it still contains calories and may contribute to weight gain.
Additionally, ensure that the lactose-free milk is suitable for cats and does not contain any harmful additives.
Always check you are feeding your Maine Coon high-quality lactose-free milk.
Is Milk Good For Older Cats?
Milk is not typically recommended as a regular part of an older cat’s diet.
While some older cats may tolerate small amounts of milk without issues, many cats become lactose intolerant as they age, making milk consumption potentially harmful.
Additionally, milk lacks essential nutrients that older cats need for optimal health, and excessive consumption can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
It’s best to provide older cats with a balanced diet tailored to their specific nutritional needs and consult with a veterinarian for dietary recommendations.
Diarrhea and vomiting caused by drinking milk can severely dehydrate a cat, which is especially dangerous for senior cats, particularly if the cat has an underlying health condition.
What To Do If Your Cat Drinks Milk
Take the following steps if you find your cat has been drinking milk:
- Monitor For Symptoms: Watch for signs of lactose intolerance such as diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort.
- Provide Water: Offer your cat plenty of fresh water to help prevent dehydration.
- Consult A Vet: If your cat experiences any adverse reactions to milk, consult a veterinarian for advice on managing symptoms and dietary adjustments.
- Avoid Future Consumption: Limit or avoid milk in your cat’s diet, opting for species-appropriate alternatives or treats instead.
- Consider Lactose-Free Options: If you still wish to offer milk, consider lactose-free varieties formulated for cats to reduce the risk of digestive issues.
My Cat Will Only Drink Milk
Some cats may prefer to drink milk due to its taste and texture, or they may have developed a preference for it based on previous experiences.
However, it’s essential to note that while cats may enjoy the taste of milk, it is not a nutritionally complete or necessary part of their diet.
If a cat consistently refuses to drink water and only consumes milk, it may be necessary to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.
Try the following techniques to move your cat from milk to water:
- Gradually Transition: Slowly mix small amounts of water into the milk to dilute it and encourage your cat to drink water.
- Offer Alternatives: Introduce wet cat food or flavored water to entice your cat to drink fluids.
- Avoid Excessive Milk Consumption: Limit milk intake and offer it only as an occasional treat.
How Much Water Do Cats Drink A Day?
A normal domestic house cat typically needs around 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight per day.
For example, a 10-pound cat would require approximately 7 to 9 ounces of water daily.
However, individual water intake can vary based on factors such as:
- Diet
- Activity Level
- Environmental Conditions
Maine Coon cats, being a larger breed, may require slightly more water than smaller domestic cats due to their increased body size and metabolic rate.
However, the difference in water intake between Maine Coons and other domestic cats is not significantly large.
It’s essential to provide all cats, regardless of breed, with access to fresh, clean water at all times to ensure proper hydration and overall health.
If you are concerned your cat is not drinking enough water, keep in mind that wet cat food contains water, so is a great source of hydration for Maine Coons.
Conclusion
It’s a common misconception that cats can drink milk.
While Maine Coons may have a reputation for enjoying milk, it’s essential to recognize that many cats, including Maine Coons, can be lactose intolerant.
Although some cats may tolerate small amounts of milk without issue, it’s safer to avoid offering milk altogether.
Instead, prioritize providing fresh water and a balanced diet tailored to your Maine Coon’s nutritional needs.
By understanding the limitations of their digestive systems, we can ensure the health and well-being of our beloved feline companions.
So, can Maine Coons drink milk? It’s best to err on the side of caution and opt for safer alternatives to keep our furry friends happy and healthy.
