What is lactose intolerance in cats?
Lactose intolerance in cats refers to the inability of cats to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, due to a lack of the enzyme lactase (source: https://www.four-paws.org/our-stories/publications-guides/milk-is-not-good-for-cats). Lactase breaks down lactose into simpler sugars that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Most cats begin losing the ability to produce lactase after they are weaned off their mother’s milk as kittens.
When cats with lactose intolerance consume dairy products, the undigested lactose travels to the large intestine where gut bacteria ferment it, producing gas and causing digestive upset. Common symptoms of lactose intolerance in cats include diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, flatulence, and abdominal pain (source: https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/lactose-intolerance). The severity of symptoms depends on the individual and amount of dairy consumed.
While lactose intolerance is very common in cats, it’s not an allergy or autoimmune condition. Simply put, their bodies lack the ability to properly digest dairy due to loss of lactase as adults. However, some cats may have an underlying milk protein allergy requiring different treatment.
Diagnosing lactose intolerance
Veterinarians can diagnose lactose intolerance in cats through various tests. The most common diagnostic tests include:
- Blood tests – These check for elevated glucose levels after consuming lactose, which can indicate improper digestion and absorption.
- Breath hydrogen tests – Cats breathe into a bag after consuming lactose. Increased hydrogen in the breath signifies poor digestion.
- Stool sample analysis – Undigested lactose in a cat’s stool may point to lactose intolerance.
- Elimination diet trial – Removing dairy products from the cat’s diet for 2-3 weeks, then reintroducing them and looking for symptoms.
- Lactose tolerance test – Measuring blood glucose before and after ingesting lactose to see if it rises normally.
Veterinarians may also check for clinical signs like diarrhea, vomiting, gas, and abdominal discomfort after lactose consumption. Diagnosing lactose intolerance allows vets to recommend proper dietary changes and treatments.
Dietary changes
The most important dietary change for cats with lactose intolerance is to switch them to a low-lactose or lactose-free cat food. Lactose is found in all dairy products, so it’s important to avoid feeding your cat any food containing milk, cheese, yogurt, whey, or other dairy ingredients.
There are many good commercial cat food brands that produce lactose-free or low-lactose cat food. Some examples include:
– Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Venison & Green Pea Formula Dry Cat Food (https://iheartcats.com/best-limited-ingredient-cat-foods/)
– Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Real Rabbit Recipe Wet Canned Cat Food (https://iheartcats.com/best-limited-ingredient-cat-foods/)
When reading pet food labels, look for cat foods that contain no dairy, milk, whey or cheese products. The primary protein source should be an animal-based protein like chicken, fish, venison or rabbit. Avoid cat foods containing soy or other plant-based proteins which are more likely to contain lactose.
In addition to commercial cat foods, you can feed your lactose intolerant cat low-lactose homemade food such as cooked meat, fish, eggs or chicken. Avoid dairy products and only use lactose-free cat milk replacements if needed.
Lactase Supplements
One of the most common treatments for lactose intolerance in cats is giving lactase enzyme supplements. Lactase is the enzyme that breaks down lactose into simpler sugars that are easier to digest. Cats with lactose intolerance lack sufficient lactase enzymes to properly digest dairy products.
Lactase supplements provide the missing enzymes that a lactose intolerant cat needs to digest dairy. The lactase enzymes break down the lactose before it reaches the large intestine and causes digestive upset. This allows cats to enjoy dairy treats without experiencing diarrhea, gas, or bloating.
There are several lactase enzyme supplements made specifically for cats. According to PetAg Prozyme Powder, their lactase supplement is formulated to “provide the precise ratio of enzymes cats need to properly digest dairy.” The powder can simply be sprinkled on wet food.
Another option is Cat-Sip Real Milk Treat, a lactose-free milk supplement that contains added lactase enzymes. This allows cats to enjoy the taste of milk without intestinal upset. Lactase breaks down 99% of the lactose.
When giving lactase enzyme supplements, it’s important to follow dosage guidelines on the product. Too much can lead to gastrointestinal upset. Most cats do well with lactase supplements, but kittens, older cats, or cats with health conditions should only use them under veterinary supervision.
Probiotics
Giving cats probiotic supplements can help restore intestinal balance and promote healthy digestion in cats with lactose intolerance.[1] Probiotics contain beneficial live bacteria that help break down lactose and reduce gastrointestinal upset. Look for high-quality, cat-specific probiotic supplements that contain a variety of strains and a high CFU (colony forming units) count.[2]
Probiotic supplements designed for cats may come in powder, paste, or capsule form. Follow label instructions for proper dosing based on your cat’s weight. Probiotics can be given daily with food. Most cats tolerate probiotics well, but start with a lower dose and monitor your cat for any side effects.[3] With daily supplementation, many cats with lactose intolerance see improvement in digestive issues within a few weeks.
In addition to probiotic supplements, feeding your cat probiotic-rich foods like plain yogurt with live and active cultures may provide some benefits. Always consult your veterinarian before starting any new supplements.
Avoiding dairy
Since most cats are lactose intolerant, it’s important to avoid giving them cow’s milk and dairy products made from it. Milk contains lactose, a type of sugar that cats have difficulty digesting. Consuming milk and dairy can lead to digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain.
Do not give your cat cow’s milk or products like cheese, ice cream, or yogurt. Even small amounts can cause issues. Stick to cat foods and treats that are specifically formulated for feline dietary needs.
Check ingredient lists carefully and avoid any products containing milk, milk powder, whey, lactose, casein or cheese. Opt for lactose-free and dairy-free cat foods. Canned/wet foods labeled for kittens are also lactose-reduced.
If your cat has gotten into some dairy accidentally, monitor them closely for signs of lactose intolerance like loose stools, vomiting or lack of appetite. Withhold all dairy and call your vet if symptoms persist more than 24 hours.
While dairy is not recommended for cats, you can provide safe treats like catnip, crunchy veggie bits or meat-based broth cubes. There are also lactose-free cat milk products made from non-dairy ingredients.
Overall, avoiding all cow dairy is the safest approach for lactose intolerant cats. Check labels carefully and do not add any milk, cheese or yogurt to your cat’s diet.
Ensuring adequate hydration
Providing plenty of fresh water is the best way to ensure adequate hydration for lactose intolerant cats. Cats with lactose intolerance may refuse milk, so it’s important not to rely on milk as their sole source of hydration. Instead, provide multiple bowls of clean, cool water around the house. Change the water at least twice a day. Some tips include:
Place water bowls away from food bowls, as cats often won’t drink water near their food. Experiment with different types of water bowls, as some cats prefer wide, shallow bowls while others like narrower, deeper bowls. Consider getting a cat water fountain, as the flowing water encourages some cats to drink more. Also try offering bottled water or filtered water, since some cats dislike the taste of tap water. Cat Not Drinking: How to Prevent Dehydration.
Monitor your cat’s water intake and contact your vet if you notice a decrease. Keep an eye out for signs of dehydration like lethargy, dry or tacky gums, sunken eyes, and loss of skin elasticity. Providing fresh, clean water at all times is the best way to keep a lactose intolerant cat hydrated.
Medications
There are some medications that can help manage the symptoms of lactose intolerance in cats. Veterinarians may prescribe anti-diarrheal medication like
metronidazole to help control diarrhea and digestive upset. Anti-nausea medication like
ondansetron may also be prescribed to control vomiting. Probiotics or digestive enzymes may also help reduce gas, cramping, and diarrhea by improving digestion of lactose. In severe cases, intravenous fluid therapy may be necessary to prevent dehydration from chronic vomiting and diarrhea. While medications can provide relief for acute symptoms, removing dairy products from the diet is essential for long-term management.
Home remedies
There are some natural home remedies that may help relieve symptoms of lactose intolerance in cats. Two remedies to try are slippery elm and peppermint. Slippery elm is an herb that can help soothe digestive issues by coating the digestive tract (https://be.chewy.com/are-cats-lactose-intolerant/). Adding 1/4 teaspoon of slippery elm powder to your cat’s food may help reduce digestive upset from lactose intolerance. Peppermint is another herb that can aid digestion and reduce gas production (https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/milk-allergy). Try adding a small amount of peppermint leaf to your cat’s food or brewing peppermint tea and mixing some into their water. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any new supplements or herbs to ensure proper dosing for your cat. With natural remedies and dietary changes, many cats with lactose intolerance can find relief from symptoms.
When to see a vet
Lactose intolerance can cause serious health issues in cats if left untreated. Signs that require immediate veterinary attention include:
- Severe vomiting and diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours (https://www.four-paws.org/our-stories/publications-guides/milk-is-not-good-for-cats)
- Dehydration indicated by lethargy, sunken eyes, dry gums, weakness, and lack of appetite (https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/lactose-intolerance)
- Bloody stool or black, tarry stool (https://www.vets-now.com/pet-care-advice/can-cats-eat-cheese/)
- Difficulty breathing or increased respiratory rate (https://www.four-paws.org/our-stories/publications-guides/milk-is-not-good-for-cats)
- Fever over 103°F (39.4°C) (https://wagwalking.com/cat/condition/lactose-intolerance)
If your cat shows any of these emergency warning signs, take them to the veterinarian right away. Severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or other complications can be life-threatening without prompt treatment. Your vet will provide intravenous fluids, electrolytes, anti-nausea medication, and other supportive care.