The story between cats and humans dates back over 9000 years. Attracted by the rodents that swarmed around the first harvests, the felines got closer to humans, forging with them a relationship that was going to last millennia. Farmers quickly found them precious utility as harmful hunters. It is in this agricultural context that cats discovered milk, whether by prowling around cows or licking some neglected remains.
At a time when animal feed was not industrialized, cats were mainly feeding on remains. And some well -intentioned humans even reserved for them their bowl of milk. In 1877, a certain Dr. Gordon stable recommended an ideal breakfast for cats made up of porridge and milk. The image of the cat drinking milk was thus rooted in our collective imagination, relayed by tales, films and cartoons, as explained by Julia Henning, doctoral student in feline ethology within the school of animal and veterinarians of the University of Adélaïde, in an article on The Conversation.
Behind the photo, a risk to their health
Unfortunately, science today breaks this myth. If kittens can digest breast milk, everything changes after weaning. After 6 to 12 weeks, lactase production, this essential enzyme to digest lactose, drops drastically. As a result, the majority of cats become lactose intolerant.
And that does not have no effect on their health. Diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain, even vomiting … Digestive disorders linked to milk consumption are frequent. In some more sensitive felines, a milk allergy can even be added to intolerance. This explosive cocktail can lead to more serious complications such as dehydration or malnutrition.
But then, why do they like this drink so much? Like us, cats sometimes have a weakness for what hurts them. Cow’s milk contains large fats and proteins, which makes it very appetite for these demanding carnivores. A protein in particular, casein, once digested, releases a substance with a slight soothing effect. This can create, over time, a positive association with this drink.
But beware! This appetite does not justify regular consumption. Especially since cats, in good concealer, hide their discomfort very well. In nature, showing weakness is taking a risk. Thus, a cat that drinks milk with pleasure can suffer in silence shortly after.
Are there alternatives? Some benevolent owners are looking for compromises. Lactose -free milk or milks formulated specially for cats can, if necessary, be given on an exceptional basis. These products, if they avoid digestive disorders, do not provide any nutritional benefit. As for vegetable alternatives such as oat, soy or almond milk, they are just as problematic and potentially irritating for their digestive system.
In short, it is better to avoid milk in all its forms. Our cats need neither need nor real desire. Their health involves an adapted diet, rich in animal proteins and designed for their specific needs. So the next time you are tempted to offer them a milk saucer, prefer a hug or a treat designed for them. Their stomach will tell you thank you.