Did you know? Why should the cats should not give milk (video)

Why do cats should not give milk, and what will happen if they still drink it?

Since childhood, we know: cats adore milk. This is almost an axiom. Cats with bowls are drawn in books, they compose poems about them and shoot funny videos. People on the street often treat the fluffs with milk – but alas, this is far from the most useful treat for them. In fact, for most cats, milk can be harmful.

How did it all start?

When about 9 thousand years ago, cats began to live next to people, hunting rodents near grain reserves, people in response began to feed them. Including milk from pets. So a stable myth of the love of cats for milk, which has survived to this day, originated.

Before the appearance of specialized feed, cats were often fed with the remains from the human table. They knew a little about their real needs. For example, in the book of the Scottish veterinarian Gordon Stables (1877), it was stated that the cat needs two bowls: one with water, the other with milk. And milk porridge was considered an ideal breakfast.

So what's the problem

Most adult cats do not tolerate lactose, that is, milk sugar. Like all mammals, kittens drink mother’s milk, but by 6–12 weeks, their lactase enzyme, which is needed to digest milk, is reduced. When it is not enough, the body simply does not cope with lactose.

This causes unpleasant consequences: gases, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea. Some cats may also have vomiting. If this is repeated regularly, then dehydration, nutritional problems, and even life -threatening conditions may begin in the animal.

And kittens can be fed milk

Even small kittens should not give cow's milk. The cats have a completely different composition – more fat, but with a lower lactose content. It is best to feed them with mother’s milk or use special mixtures designed specifically for kittens.

Alternatives – like oatmeal, soy or almond milk – is also not an option. They can cause digestive disorders, but they will not bring benefits.

Why then cats still love milk

Everything is simple: milk contains fats and proteins – namely those nutrients that cats really need. The body itself reaches for familiar and high -calorie sources. Some proteins in milk, such as casein, even have a slight calming effect on cats. But a delicious habit does not make the product useful.

Is it still a little milk as a treat

If you really want to pamper your pet, use special lactose milk for cats, which is sold in pet stores. But even it should be given no more than a couple once a month and in very small quantities. And remember: even if your cat seems healthy after drinking milk, this does not mean that he is comfortable. Cats by their nature know how to hide pain and weakness.

We will summarize

Milk is not part of the natural diet of a cat. It can cause serious health problems. It is better not to take risks and not give it at all. Believe me, your fluffy friend and without milk will be quite happy, especially if there is the right food in the bowl, and next to him – the beloved owner.

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