As more pet parents embrace veganism, almond milk becomes a staple in many homes.
And as you embrace this new diet, it is only natural to ask yourself, can you give cats almond milk?
We are about to find out.
Cats can have almond milk but in small amounts. Unlike other dairy products, almond milk does not contain lactose which most cats are allergic to. Though almond milk is purely from almonds, it still may contain some ingredients that can upset a cat’s tummy.
Not all cats can digest dairy products.
Rather than watch our precious felines suffer through lactose intolerance, we try and find alternatives that can replace cow milk.
Almond milk is one of those safe options for cats but there is a caveat to how you feed it to your feline.
What is almond?
It may look like a nut, but almond is a fruit known as a drupe.
It is native to the middle east and is eaten raw or processed into almond milk.
Almonds are similar to peaches, only that the fleshy part of the fruit is discarded and only the seed part (the almond) is consumed.
What are the health benefits of Almonds?
Almonds are rich in vitamins and minerals that both humans and pets can benefit from.
Almonds contain no saturated fats but are a rich source of Omega 3 fatty acids.
This fruit contains no calories either and is rich in minerals like manganese, zinc, potassium, and selenium.
Almonds contain plenty of vitamin E and are a great source of natural fiber when eaten raw.
Benefits of Almond milk for cats
Natural almond milk has saturated fats which makes it great for maintaining your cat’s healthy weight.
Also, almond milk is lactose-free and is perfect for cats that have a hard time digesting the sugar and lactase
This vegan milk alternative packs vitamin E which nourishes a cat’s coat and skin.
Vitamin E also soothes inflammation caused by skin conditions like eczema.
The potassium in almond milk improves cellular function while magnesium reduces constipation and urinary diseases in cats.
Zinc helps in reproduction and also boosts the immune system of cats.
Manganese helps in cell energy production and improves bone quality in cats and dogs.
So your cat has everything to gain when taking a few slurps of almond milk.
But then, why do vets advise against giving your feline friend too much almond milk?
Is Almond Milk Safe for Cats?
Despite the myth that cats love milk, they actually cannot digest milk as humans do.
Normal cow milk contains lactose sugars and not all cats have the enzyme lactase to digest these sugars.
If your cat has few of these enzymes, it will be lactose intolerant.
Fortunately, almond milk does not contain lactose sugars.
This means that almond milk for cats is safe right?
Yes, but there is a disclaimer.
Not all cats can process almond milk because they have a sensitive stomach.
Also, not every brand of almond milk on the market is safe for your cat.
Flavored almond milk may contain artificial sweeteners, flavorings, and preservatives that can cause tummy issues in your cat.
Natural almond milk is best if you are going to share the drink with your cat.
Will almond milk for cats harm my feline?
Almond milk will only cause health problems if given in large amounts to a cat.
Some of the side effects of almond milk for cats include;
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
At most, your feline will get an aching tummy and mild diarrhea when they take too much almond milk.
Also, if your cat is allergic to almond milk as a new diet, then the above side effects may occur.
Which almond milk is safe for cats?
Most health stores sell Sweet almond milk which is filled with artificial sweeteners.
If you cannot get natural almond milk, you can always make almond milk right at home.
You just need the following ingredients.
- 1 cup of natural almonds
- 4 cups of clean water
- A blender
- A strainer
- Storage bottle
Soak the almonds overnight so they soak up water and puff up.
In the morning, drain the almonds and toss them inside a blender.
Add the 4 cups of water and then blend for a minute or until all almonds are blended out.
You could always add a natural sweetener like a teaspoon of honey or a piece of dates.
Now pour the mixture through the strainer into a collecting jar.
The strainer separates the milk from the pulp.
Pour the milk into the storage container and keep it refrigerated.
This milk should last 3 to 5 days and it is a healthy alternative to cow milk for cats.
Video: Is Almond Milk Safe for Cats?
Final thoughts
Almond milk is not toxic to cats.
If taken in moderation, your cat may not develop a stomach ache.
But if you notice your cat has a negative reaction to almond milk, like vomiting or diarrhea, they are finding it hard to digest it as it is new to them.
See Also
Frequently Asked Questions
Almond milk is a safe alternative for cats that are lactose intolerant. Monitor your cat’s behavior when you introduce almond milk to them. If they have a negative reaction to it, they are intolerant of it as well.
Almond milk is safe for cats especially kittens that have been weaned off their mother’s milk. Homemade almond milk for cats is the best because it does not contain any harmful additives.
Almond milk is not toxic to cats or humans in its natural form. Avoid any almond milk that contains artificial sugars, coloring, or preservatives. These extra ingredients can harm your cat.
Almonds are safe for cats if they are natural with no artificial additives. If you are buying almond snacks, go for the unsweetened options that do not have artificial coloring or preservatives. Alternatively, you can make almond milk at home.
