There are indeed many cat breeds that cannot tolerate milk well, especially Oriental breeds. The reason behind this lies in the fact that cats have minimal amounts of lactase in their bodies, making it difficult for them to break down lactose in milk. This inability leads to undigested milk in the colon, where fermentation occurs, producing bacteria that can adversely affect the digestive system and result in lactose intolerance. The primary symptoms of cat lactose intolerance include diarrhea or vomiting.
The response of cats to milk consumption also varies based on individual differences, in addition to regional variations. Some cats enjoy drinking milk and do not exhibit adverse reactions. Therefore, when offering milk to your cat, it’s advisable to observe its response. If adverse reactions occur, it’s essential to minimize or entirely eliminate its milk consumption.
