* Lactose Intolerance: Most adult cats are lactose intolerant. They lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose, the sugar in milk. This can lead to digestive issues like diarrhea, gas, and vomiting.
* Nutritional Imbalance: Cow's milk is not nutritionally balanced for cats. It's low in taurine, an essential amino acid that cats need for heart and eye health, and high in fat, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
Alternatives:
* Cat milk: Specifically formulated cat milk is available at pet stores and is much safer than cow's milk.
* Water: Water is the best and most important beverage for cats.
* Cat food: Cats get most of their hydration from their food.
Important note: Kittens can tolerate milk better than adult cats, but it's still best to consult a veterinarian about the right diet for your kitten.