Cow’s milk is unsuitable for most adult dogs and cats, as they lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down the milk sugar (lactose) it contains. This leads to lactose intolerance, which can cause diarrhoea, bloating, abdominal pain and vomiting.
Main reasons against cow’s milk:
Lactose intolerance: After weaning from their mother’s milk, dogs and cats stop producing the enzyme lactase. The undigested lactose reaches the large intestine, leading to digestive problems.
High fat content: Normal cow’s milk is too high in fat for cats, which can lead to obesity or stomach problems.
Not a necessary food: Milk is not a drink, but a high-calorie food that cannot replace water.