Can cats drink almond milk in moderation, but it is neither a natural part of their diet nor does it provide essential nutrients. Almond milk contains no lactose so it’s less likely to upset a cat’s stomach than cow’s milk. Many brands put sugar, flavors, and other cat dangerous extras in theirs. Certain almond milks even contain artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which is deadly to cats. Plain, unsweetened almond milk is safer, but good ol’ H2O will always win. Since cats derive what they need from meat and water, almond milk should be an occasional treat. The body elaborates on when, why and how almond milk can fit into a cat’s diet.
The Core Question
To state the obvious, almond milk is a staple plant-based milk replacement in households across the globe. While many cat parents may wonder if it’s safe to offer this cat almond milk to their feline companions, there is a general consensus among experts on the topic.
- While most vets concur almond milk is not toxic to cats.
- Should be administered sparingly, if at all.
- Almond milk is no replacement for a cat’s nutritionally balanced, meat-centric diet.
- A few cats might love the flavor, but not all accept it graciously.
- The store-bought almond milk may have sweeteners and other additives that are unsafe for pets.
- Almond milk is too calorie-rich and fat-laden for a cat.
- The drink offers almost no nutritional value for cats.
1. The Simple Answer
Almond milk, as a popular milk replacement, is pretty safe for cats when served in moderation. Unlike regular cow’s milk, almond milk has no lactose, making it less likely to upset the stomach of lactose-intolerant cats. This nut milk contains no known poisons to cats, allowing it to be an even safer indulgence occasionally. However, it should never be a staple in a cat’s diet. A little cup — roughly 240ml — has 30-60 calories and 3-4 grams of fat and fiber, which is excessive for the average cat, who doesn’t require many calories daily.
2. The Nuanced Reality
Cats can be unpredictable with almond milk. Some will happily lap a lick or two without incident, others will exhibit stomach distress such as gas, vomiting or abdominal pain. This is particularly so for kittens and senior cats as they both have more delicate digestive systems. Responsible feeding is all about observing your cat for any signs of discomfort and not pushing new foods. If your cat responds adversely, discontinue feeding almond milk immediately.
Serving almond milk should be the exception, not the default. Keep portions small and avoid xylitol brands, which are toxic to cats.
3. The Obligate Carnivore
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require nutrients only found in animal meat, such as taurine and certain amino acids. While cat almond milk might sound like a tasty treat, it cannot serve as a suitable milk replacement for meat-based cat meals or provide a balanced diet. Overindulging in almond milk can displace essential foods that cats need to thrive. For optimal wellness, stick to protein-packed wet or dry cat food, ensuring their dietary needs are met.
4. The Lactose Myth
Many people mistakenly believe that cats can drink milk, but most adult cats lose the enzyme needed to digest lactose after kittenhood, leading to gastrointestinal issues. They are lactose intolerant, which can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, or gas if given dairy. However, cat almond milk is a popular milk replacement that doesn’t contain lactose, making it a safer alternative for sensitive cats, though it should still be used sparingly.
Hidden Dangers
Cats are not human, and some foods that are seemingly safe for us, like almond milk, can pose risks for them. While almond milk gains popularity as a milk replacement, it can lead to gastrointestinal issues if fed frequently or in excess. Here are the key risks to watch for.
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Almond milk that is sweetened or flavored, as it could include sugars or artificial sweeteners that can be cat-toxic.
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A lot of brands include thickeners or preservatives that mess with digestion or cause allergic reactions.
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Even unsweetened almond milk is relatively fat and calorie-rich compared to what cats require.
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Almond milk has stachyose and raffinose, complex carbs cats can’t digest, which cause upset stomachs.
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Other nut milks, like macadamia, are flat out poisonous and induce tremors or lethargy.
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Even kittens, senior cats, and healthy adults can get gas, cramps, or vomiting from almond milk.
Sweeteners
Certain almond milk brands have added sugars or sweeteners to enhance flavor, but these can pose risks for cats. While human consumption of flavored almond milks like vanilla or chocolate might be appealing, these products often contain dangerous additives such as xylitol that can lead to severe reactions in pets. To ensure your furry friend’s health, it’s best to avoid sharing any almond milk, even plain unsweetened varieties, as they can contribute to digestive issues and potential health risks.
Thickeners
Almond milk is often loaded with thickeners, such as carrageenan or guar gum, which can upset a cat’s stomach and lead to gastrointestinal issues. This is particularly true for kittens and senior cats, but adult cats can also experience discomfort. To support a healthy diet, ALWAYS check labels for additional ingredients and avoid almond milk with thickeners, gums, or fillers to reduce the risk of digestive problems.
Preservatives
Commercial almond milk contains preservatives. Potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and other preservatives keep the food from spoiling but can cause allergic reactions or upset stomachs in cats.
Some of the higher quality almond milk brands forego these chemicals, but not all of them. Opting for no preservatives is safer, but no almond milk is really safe for pets.
High Calories
|
Beverage |
Calories per cup |
Cat Food (wet, 85g) |
|---|---|---|
|
Almond milk |
30–60 |
70–90 |
|
Soya milk |
80–100 |
70–90 |
|
Rice milk |
120–130 |
70–90 |
Cats have tiny caloric requirements, and excess almond milk can contribute to weight gain and the risk of obesity. As a popular milk replacement, make servings infrequent and small, as just a couple of sips can exceed their daily limit.
Nutritional Void
Almond milk is the trendy drink of choice for humans seeking a plant-based beverage, but it’s an awful option for cats. Cats require a diet high in meat protein and specific nutrients such as taurine to remain healthy. Using milk replacements like almond milk can create a big void in a cat’s diet, leading to potential health benefits being missed, particularly in kittens and senior cats.
Protein Deficiency
Cats require protein in excess of 50% of their diet. Almond milk, low in protein, is frequently high in calories and carbs. Look at the differences:
|
Food |
Protein (g/100 ml) |
Calories (kcal/100 ml) |
|---|---|---|
|
Almond milk |
0.5 |
17 |
|
Chicken breast |
31 |
165 |
|
Commercial cat food |
7–12 |
70–90 |
Almond milk does not provide sufficient protein to sustain a cat’s muscle health, energy, or immune system. If a cat’s not getting enough protein, they can lose muscle, have frail bones and a dull coat. Kittens and senior cats are impacted most severely since their bodies need more protein to support growth and recovery.
Almond milk and other plant-based goodies are a major protein sinkhole. Cat ‘moms’ and ‘dads’ should zero in on protein, like quality cat food, to avoid health problems and maintain active pets.
Taurine Absence
Taurine is a vital amino acid for cats. Their bodies can’t manufacture it, so it must come from the diet. Almond milk, as a plant-based product, contains no taurine.
Cats without taurine risk going blind, heart disease and reproductive issues. These problems frequently fly under the radar until they manifest severely.
To prevent these health issues, opt for cat food with taurine added. Animal products and good commercial cat foods are the best way to cover this appetite.
Unnecessary Fats
Almond milk contains fats cats don’t require. Although cats require a bit of fat for energy, the varieties in almond milk are less than optimal. Too much of the wrong fat makes you fat fast.
Almost 60% of cats in the U.S. Are overweight or obese, frequently from nutritionally void diets and excessive treats. Almond milk is just going to provide some empty calories.
That means a good cat diet is lean proteins and only the healthy fats in small amounts.
A Vet’s Perspective
As a veterinarian, I often get asked about plant milk options like cat almond milk and if they are safe for cats. The majority of vets state that almond milk is unnecessary in a feline diet, as cats derive all their nutritional needs from balanced cat food. While almond milk doesn’t contain lactose, it doesn’t mean it’s risk-free or appropriate for cats. Vets concur that new food should be introduced cautiously, particularly considering the cat’s health, age, and specific dietary requirements.
Why Risk It?
Almond milk and cats don’t mix well. Vets remind us that cats are notorious for gastrointestinal upset from foods outside of their usual meals. While almond milk gains popularity as a milk replacement, it is not calorie-free—there’s about 100 calories in a cup. For an average 4.5 kg (10 lb) cat that requires around 200 calories per day, this is a significant chunk. It can add up quickly, and vets have witnessed too many cats become chunky from additional snacks. Approximately 60% of cats in the U.S. are overweight or obese, and just a couple of sips could tip a cat into weight issues or stomach upset. It’s best to save almond milk for fresh water or cat treats designed for the purpose.
Not all “milk” is created equal. Lactose-free milk is significantly safer than dairy milk for cats, but almond milk is not a suitable option. Soy milk is another alternative; however, it is unsafe for kitties with food allergies as soy ranks as a leading pet allergen. If a cat licks a drop of almond milk, vets typically don’t fret, but there’s no need to introduce it to a cat’s diet as a milk product.
The Anecdotal Trap
There are stories online that say almond milk is good for cats but a vet would caution against such tales. Just because one cat doesn’t get sick doesn’t mean all cats are going to be okay. Your experience is not evidence. Cats are different, so what heals one kills another.
Science, not stories, should be your guide for cat health decisions. Vets encourage everyone to utilize credible resources, not simply what they read online or hear from a friend.
Unstudied Territory
Very little studies on almond milk for cats. No large studies demonstrate it is safe or unsafe. Without evidence, any novel food could pose unforeseen hazards.
Vets caution. If a cat samples almond milk, monitor for vomiting, diarrhea or appetite changes for the next 24-48 hours.
Safer Sips
Cats might be interested in what’s in your glass, but not all beverages are safe. OK, so a little almond milk is less damaging than cow’s milk, but it still doesn’t rock. Almond milk is low in essential nutrients cats require and can contain sweeteners or additives unsuitable for feline consumption. Certain plant milks, like oat milk, remain questionable for felines, and soy milk should be skipped entirely because of its calorie content and allergen potential. For kittens, however, any bad milk can spell real trouble, which is why it’s best to stick with tried-and-true-safe. If a cat laps up a little of the wrong milk, observe them for 2 days. Safer sips sidestep tummy trouble or nutritional voids.
Safer drinks for cats than almond milk:
- Fresh, clean water
- Plain bone broth (without salt, onion, or garlic)
- Cat-specific milk (lactose-free, fortified)
- Occasionally, plain yoghurt (unsweetened, in moderation)
Water
Fresh water remains the most essential drink for cats. It keeps their bodies working well and wards off dehydration, which can lead to otherwise serious health complications. Cats require fresh water constantly, not just when they eat.
Water fuels each and every system within a cat’s body. It aids in digestion and kidney health, regulates your body temperature, and transports nutrients to the right places. Without adequate water, cats can become lethargic or develop urinary problems. Water is the BEST and SAFEST sip for every cat, regardless of age.
Bone Broth
Bone broth is a delicious, savory way to help your cats stay hydrated – especially the cats that just don’t drink enough water. It’s slow made, bone broth rich. Bone broth is easy on the stomach and can be helpful for finicky and convalescing kitties.
Bone broth is easy to make at home. Use salt-, onion-, and garlic-free bones, as these are not safe for cats. Homemade broth allows you to select the ingredients, so you know it’s devoid of any artificial flavors or excess sodium.
Cat-Specific Milk
Cat milk made just for cats. These products exclude lactose, which cats cannot digest well, and typically supplement with nutrients such as taurine or vitamins.
They’re easier on digestion and less likely to upset the stomach than cow’s or almond milk. Kittens and cats can have them as a snack, not a routine. Choose brands that disclose all ingredients and skip sweeteners.
Cat milks are better than almond or soy milk. They’re made for cats and that makes all the difference.
Plant-Based Pitfalls
Even plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond milk, perceived to be ‘gentler’, can pose a host of gastrointestinal issues for cats. Most milk replacements are missing the nutrients and protein cats require to thrive. Certain options, like soya milk, even run the risk of inducing stomach issues or allergic reactions.
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Most plant-based ‘milks’, such as almond or rice milk, contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives which are unsafe for cats.
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They are loaded with sugar and soda-type carb contents that can cause tooth loss, dental disease, or weight gain in cats.
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Cats just don’t digest complex carbs like stachyose and raffinose, which are found in these milks.
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Most plant milks fall way short of the feline’s high protein demands, requiring more than half of their diet to be protein.
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Kittens and senior cats are even more susceptible to stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhea from these substitute milks.
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Even healthy adults may get flatulence or digestive upset from plant milks.
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Certain plant milks can have up to 60 calories per cup, nudging cats toward obesity if fed too frequently.
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There’s research that cats can manage on plant-based diets, but their health needs to be monitored keenly for any indication of potential issues.
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Animal-based foods continue to be the superior means of satisfying a cat’s distinctive nutrition requirements.
Soy Milk
While some kitties experience gastrointestinal issues from soy milk, such as gas or diarrhea, it’s important to note that soy is a common allergen that can lead to itching or skin problems in some cats. Unlike regular milk, popular milk replacements like almond milk do not provide the protein or nutrients necessary for a healthy diet, making it wise to avoid soy milk as a cat milk substitute.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is very fatty, which can stress a cat’s digestive tract and cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. Cats sometimes experience an upset stomach or even throw up after consuming coconut milk. This milk replacement lacks vital nutrients for a cat’s health, making it unsuitable as a regular milk substitute. If provided, it should be in small quantities—never as a daily indulgence.
Oat Milk
Oat milk is a no-no for the cats as it is loaded with carbs, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues since cats can’t break down carbs effectively. This adds stress to their system and causes blood sugar spikes. Instead, prioritize milk replacements that provide cats the protein and animal fats they require for a balanced and complete diet.
Conclusion
Cats are always up for a new taste, but almond milk doesn’t provide them the nutrition they require. It has no true nutritional value for cats and may disturb their stomach. Most cats lack the enzymes to digest plant-based beverages. Vets commonly advise against feeding your cats almond milk or other nut-based drinks. Safer choices — like fresh water or vet-approved treats — are best. Cat milk, not people milk, keeps it simple and safe. A lot of pet stores sell little packs for convenience! In keeping your cat happy and healthy – use what sustains their body best! For any change to a cat’s diet, consult a veterinarian prior to and watch for signs of distress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cats safely drink almond milk?
No, cats cannot drink almond milk, a popular milk replacement, as it can irritate their gastrointestinal tract and provides no nutritional benefits for them.
Is almond milk toxic to cats?
Almond milk isn’t poisonous, but certain brands include additives or sweeteners that can cause harm to cats.
What are the risks of giving cats almond milk?
Almond milk, a popular milk replacement, may cause gastrointestinal issues in your cat.
Does almond milk provide any nutrition for cats?
No, almond milk doesn’t provide the essential nutrients that cats need; they require animal proteins, not milk replacements!
Are there safer milk alternatives for cats?
Water is best for cats, but there’s specially made lactose-free cat milk, a popular milk replacement, for occasional indulgence.
Can kittens have almond milk?
Kittens should never drink almond milk or any milk replacements; they require their momma’s milk or a vet-approved kitten formula.
Why do some cats seem to like almond milk?
While some cats enjoy experimenting with new flavors, just because they like the taste doesn’t mean that cat almond milk is a safe or healthy milk replacement for them.