Kittens should not drink cow's milk. Young kittens have delicate digestive systems, and feeding them cow's milk can easily lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and loose stools. If you want to give a kitten milk, it's recommended to purchase kitten-specific goat milk powder instead.
It is not advisable for kittens to consume cow's milk. Because a kitten's gastrointestinal tract is relatively fragile and more suited for liquid foods, the lactose and casein present in cow's milk are difficult for kittens to digest. This can very easily cause diarrhea. Furthermore, after consuming cow's milk, kittens are prone to diarrhea and may exhibit other symptoms such as vomiting, dehydration, and hypoglycemia. Cow's milk is simply not a good choice for their delicate systems.
What Kind of Milk Can Kittens Drink?
1. Goat Milk Powder
Goat milk powder is the closest alternative to a mother cat's milk, and it is rich in nutrients. It is suitable for both young and older cats. Therefore, owners should provide kittens with special kitten milk powder like 'Meow Thought' goat milk powder to help them supplement their nutritional needs and maintain their daily physiological functions. Avoid feeding kittens regular cow's milk or human milk powder, as this can cause gastrointestinal upset.
2. Lactose-Free Milk
Lactose-free milk converts the difficult-to-absorb lactose into absorbable galactose and glucose, which solves lactose intolerance issues. For kittens, lactose-free milk contains no indigestible lactose, making it a suitable alternative. It provides some hydration and nutrients without the risk of digestive upset that comes with regular cow's milk, however, it's still better to stick to kitten-specific formula or goat milk powder for optimal health and growth. Choosing the right type of milk is critical to a kitten's overall health and wellbeing. Remember, a well-fed kitten is a happy kitten!