Can Cats Drink Almond Milk?

Nowadays, people are making healthier food choices; there has been a shift from cow’s milk to almond or soy milk. Plus, there is a good chance that you haven’t almond milk in your house if you are vegan or dairy-free. So, as almond milk is gaining momentum around the world, it is very natural to wonder – “can cats drink almond milk?”

Can Cats Drink Almond Milk?

Yes, cats can drink almond milk, but in moderate quantities. All feline owners know that cats loving milk is a myth. The lactase enzymes that are needed to digest milk are lacking in your cat’s digestive system. So, they are unable to digest milk and are lactose intolerant.

Almond milk is popular among cats as it has no lactose in it. The milk is created from processed almonds. If your cat has a sensitive stomach, almond milk can cause complications. So, if you want to feed her almond milk, give her a few spoonfuls at first. 

Some brands producing almond milk add artificial sweeteners, preservatives, flavors, and other additives to it. These can cause stomach irritation in your cat. Therefore, it is advised that you feed your fluffball unsweetened almond milk without any flavors. 

The main concern about almond milk is that it contains a lot of calories. A study shows over 50% of companion cats have obesity. Almond milk supplies unnecessary calories in your cat, which can lead to obesity. The sweeteners in it can also cause tooth decay. 

Adult cats should not be given almond milk at all.

Can I Feed My Cat Almonds?

No, you should not feed your cats almonds. The healthy fats and proteins in almonds that benefit humans are harmful to them. Studies show it can cause obesity and pancreatitis in cats. 

Almonds are quite hard and dense, which means they can choke your cat. Plus, they provide next to no nutrition to your cat. 

Even if your cat manages to swallow an almond without choking, chances are it will obstruct bowel movement in them. This complication sometimes requires surgery, which is very risky. In addition, numerous researches show it can induce vomiting and diarrhea in a feline with a sensitive stomach.

What About Almond Butter?

Yes, your cat can eat almond butter, but in moderation.

Almond butter contains high protein and fat content. Some companies also add sugar to make it more flavourful. However, feeding your cat large quantities of it can cause diabetes and obesity. 

A small amount of almond butter has more fat, protein, and sugar than an almond. The smooth taste makes overfeeding your cat easy. However, it can result in an upset stomach or even diarrhea. 

Is Almond Milk Nutritious for Cats?

Almond milk has fewer calories than other milk in the market. So, almond milk for your cat is a healthier choice. In addition, it contains vitamin D, which strengthens a cat’s bones and muscles. 

Almond milk has a high content of vitamin E and healthy fats. Healthy fats are seen to reduce incidences of heart disease not only in humans but in cats too. 

Almond milk contains magnesium, zinc, thiamine, carbs, iron, protein, fat, and riboflavin. But a cat cannot absorb these minerals because of phytic acid in the milk. 

Summary

To sum it up, can cats drink almond milk? – yes, they can. But it should only be given as an occasional treat. Almond milk should not become a staple in your cat’s diet. You needn’t reply on almond milk for nutrition; your fluffball gets the necessary nutrients from meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can My Cat Drink Soy Milk?

Yes, your cat can drink soy milk. The amino acids in it help in increasing muscle mass and reducing muscle wastage.

Overconsumption of soy milk can be hazardous for your feline. It can cause damage to the liver and thyroid glands.

What Kind of Milk Is Safe for My Cat to Drink?

You should avoid feeding your cat whole cow’s milk or cream as they have a high concentration of fat and sugar. If your cat can drink cow’s milk, you should feed her in very small quantities. Organic skim milk, lactose-free cow milk, or milk with 1% fat content are much safer options. 

What Are Some Alternatives to Almond Milk?

Some alternatives to almond milk are – soy milk, coconut milk, and rice milk. Coconut milk helps in weight loss and promotes heart health. But it has a high content of fat and almost no proteins and carbohydrates.

Rice milk is the least likely to cause any allergic reaction in your cat. But it has a lot of sugar which can lead to sugar imbalance in her.

Another alternative is soy milk, which contains amino acids. They help in building muscle mass and reduce muscle wastage.