Your posh little lady maybe didn’t tell you she likes this beverage, but you’ve heard of other furry companions trying it out.

Is your pet just an outcast that doesn’t like tea? You can never know if you don’t even try! But before you start any experiments, you should always ask the following: Is it safe for my feline?

A lot of cat parents usually trust their pets and their instincts. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing bad about it. But it’s similar to letting a child pick out the clothes they’re going to wear for school.

You encourage their spontaneity and curiosity, but it sometimes just isn’t the right choice. In the same way, felines can either be right or wrong in their choices.

Well, I know my cat had her share of embarrassing moments. She’d sneak into the kitchen and her curiosity would get the best of her. Moments later, I have a mess to clean up.

But when we’re talking about our furry babies, it’s not the mess that we’re worried about. Their health is a much bigger concern to us.

Therefore, don’t be mad if she decides to lap up some of your hot beverage. Instead, it would be better to ask yourself can cats drink green tea, and is it safe for their health. So, cheers to that!

Can cats drink green tea without any repercussions?

I’m not trying to scare you, but think about it. What’s more important: the fact that you were left without your cup of tea or your pet’s wellbeing?

I already know what you’re going to choose, so I’ll try to ease some of your worries. Cats can drink green tea but in moderation. (Don’t ignore these last two words.)

We’re fully aware that they’re royalty, but perhaps tea isn’t really the greatest choice for felines. I know drinking tea is like a trademark of nobility, but that’s far less important than their safety.

Thankfully, green tea isn’t poisonous to cats as some other beverages are. However, this doesn’t mean that it gets a green light all the time.

And after all, what are the chances of your pet liking this drink? Sure, it smells nice and has a calming effect. But is that enough to satisfy your queen bee?

Do cats even like tea?

It’s not really safe to give an answer to this question for the whole cat kingdom. You see, each cat has a mind of its own.

What I want to say is that your pet might be thrilled if you introduce this new ingredient to her diet. On the other hand, it’s possible she’ll just scrunch up her nose at it.

Either way, it’s best not to rush things. You know that green tea has many health advantages for humans, so I understand why you want to offer some to your pet.

Although you have good intentions, we can sometimes do more damage than good. I believe you’re already aware that cats shouldn’t really consume human foods and drinks.

But we must ask ourselves, with all of the health benefits, is green tea perhaps an exception? Should we treat this hot beverage with privilege?

So, can cats drink green tea in small amounts? If it turns out that she doesn’t like it, can you still mix in some of it with her wet food, right?

My mind is just spinning with all of these questions. So, let’s figure them out one by one! We’ll find out if cats can drink green tea, when, where, and how.

First things first, is green tea healthy?

Well, I think it goes without saying that green tea is among the healthiest beverages out there (at least for humans). We know tea is usually used to make you feel better but this specific one has many other benefits up its sleeve.

It can impact your physical as well as mental health. I’d say that this drink simply has some magic powers. People usually have a bag of green tea safe in the pantry for any kind of emergency.

Therefore, it sure is healthy. But can these health benefits be applied to our furry pets as well? I know you’re looking forward to a positive answer, so let’s make the best of it.

1. Lowers blood pressure

You wouldn’t think that a cat can possibly have high blood pressure because they never seem to worry, right? Jokes aside, felines can also suffer from this condition.

Thankfully, green tea has the ability to decrease blood pressure. This drink contains saponins which are naturally occurring compounds.

They help maintain your pet’s blood pressure and ease your worries. However, don’t share a cup with your feline without consulting your vet first. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

2. Prevents tooth decay

Cats don’t really like brushing their teeth. They think they can handle it on their own, but once again, they can’t be more wrong.

Unfortunately, plaque can find its way into our felines’ mouths and might create further problems. Therefore, we must protect our pets’ sharp razors.

Cats can drink small amounts of green tea in order to keep their teeth healthy. The chemicals that naturally exist in teas such as green tea may help with this problem. It’s like free dentist care!

3. It helps to relax

If your pet’s been under visible stress lately, a cup of green tea just might do the job. You know when you come home from work and you’re so tired you can’t function normally?

The next thing you can probably think of is making yourself a cup of hot beverage. Green tea has theanine, an amino acid that can also be found in some mushrooms.

This chemical compound makes your muscles relax quickly and it surely eases stress. If your pet needs to calm down a bit, talk to your vet about this option. If he gives you a green light, then go for it.

4. It’s great for losing weight

I know how much cat parents can be sensitive when talking about their pets, especially their overweight pets. There’s nothing wrong with showing them love, but is food the right way to express your feelings?

I know that a way to a cat’s heart is through her stomach but think about it. What’s more important – to have a satisfied or a healthy cat?

Well, I’m sure she’s satisfied even if she doesn’t get the last bite of your plate. Maybe she doesn’t appear to be, but trust me, she is.

Felines can oftentimes be greedy and gorge on things without even giving them a second thought. That’s why you need to step in and take matters into your own hands.

Especially if we’re talking about an elderly cat that already faces some issues with her joints. In their golden years, felines can develop joint inflammation known as arthritis.

All of that excess weight puts an additional strain on her poor joints. Green tea may help her lose some of that additional weight without her even noticing.

It might also aid in decreasing the inflammation in her old bones. This also leads us to our next health advantage of this amazing beverage.

5. Packed with antioxidants

Speaking of inflammations, there’s nothing better than an additional dose of antioxidants. These health benefits can be found in various foods, such as fruits, veggies, and meat.

Antioxidants help fight off free radicals in the body and have a number of health properties. For instance, one of them is anti-inflammatory.

Other properties include antifungal, as well as antibacterial. If you’re still trying to find out “can cats drink green tea”, this just might be the answer you’re looking for!

Antioxidants can help in preventing various diseases and fight off infections and bacteria. They boost your pet’s immune system and keep her safe.

6. It improves their physical health

The good news just keeps coming and we love them! Another health benefit of this amazing tea is that it can aid in keeping your pet’s bones and muscles healthy.

We all want to have a healthy and fit cat, right? We love when they’re a bit on the chubby side, but it’s best for them if they stay lean and agile.

Vitamins such as C and B2 (which can also be found in dragon fruit) are only some of the supplements that help make this happen. They’re important in the formation of collagen which helps build strong bones and teeth.

These are the reason why your cat’s been so active and full of life. If you can’t bring her down from a tree, then I guess it can also be a good sign.

7. It feeds the skin

Green tea has yet another trick up its sleeve. I know you’re probably blown off by now with all of these fantastic health advantages.

However, it doesn’t stop there. Green tea also feeds your pet’s skin and fur. It helps hydrate it and keep it soft and elastic.

As a result, your purrincess’s fur may become thicker and shinier. The vitamins and minerals present in this little bag of magic can help strengthen hair follicles.

I know you’re sick of brushing and de-shedding your pet. However, this doesn’t mean that she’ll stop shedding once she starts drinking tea.

8. It helps with their night vision

How can green tea help cats with their night vision? You see, your pet is a crepuscular animal. It implies that your furry companion is most active around dusk and dawn time.

Well, this isn’t hard to believe because all she does throughout the day is sleep. Even though she still doesn’t do much during the times she’s most active, she somehow manages to tire herself out.

We know that daylight is scarce during this time of the day. Therefore, your pet needs to equip herself with strong tools that will help her navigate her way through the darkness.

Not only can cats drink green tea, but they should really have a sip here and there. This would be because this beverage has B-carotene and vitamin A.

Both of these help in maintaining and strengthening her night vision. You wouldn’t want to leave your pet in the dark, would you?

9. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases

So far, green tea is a hero in our eyes. I know you’re thinking of all the ways you can incorporate it into your feline’s diet. This next reason might be just a push for you to try it out.

With all the numerous health benefits aside, green tea may help in decreasing the risk of heart diseases. This includes heart strokes as well.

These can come out of the blue, and we don’t want that to happen, ever. Green tea has the ability to improve blood cholesterol by reducing LDL blood cholesterol levels.

Bad cholesterol can cause blood clots and improve the risks of various heart diseases and strokes. Consult with your vet if you’re convinced enough to try this tea out.

Can cats drink green tea and face some consequences?

Unfortunately, yes. Even with all the numerous health advantages of this fantastic drink, it still contains something that’s not good for your pet. Hear me out.

1. Caffeine

Green tea contains caffeine, a chemical compound that can actually be toxic to felines. Even though this is bad news, things aren’t all black around here.

The thing with green tea is that your cat can take a sip of it here and there. However, this doesn’t mean that she can safely indulge in it whenever she pleases since if it’s consumed in high amounts, it could be lethal.

Caffeine might do some damage to your pet, but this isn’t very likely if she doesn’t have regular access to it. So, moderation is the key to her health.

High quantities of caffeine can also be found in foods such as chocolate and drinks such as coffee. Although green tea doesn’t have that much caffeine, it still poses a risk to your feline’s health. However, if you keep the intake of her green tea monitored, nothing bad should happen.

If unfortunately, your pet somehow manages to get caffeine poisoning, you might expect the following symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, changes in behavior, and many more.

Some of the symptoms that are more concerning are tremors, seizures, as well as heart palpitations. If you notice your pet is acting strange or has accelerated breathing, it’s time to take a trip to the vet.

2. Sugar is a no-no

We like this drink because it tastes and smells nice. But what I personally love the most about it is that it’s even better when you add a teaspoon of sugar. However, not the same can be said about cats.

Felines don’t actually require carbs in their diet. They might suffer if they consume it on a regular basis.

Remember how we talked about all those health benefits of green tea and I mentioned it helps the weight loss journey and prevents dental decay? Well, sugar just might ruin all of that green tea’s hard work.

To be more precise, sugar encourages the development of dental decay, as well as weight gain. This wouldn’t be a big problem if it didn’t affect your feline. Again, remember the antioxidants that help ease joint inflammations?

Well, the additional weight just might have an adverse effect on those sore bones. Furthermore, high amounts of sugar can aid in developing diabetes.

This isn’t something you’d want for your cat because it would definitely ruin the quality of her life. Therefore, try to keep your pet away from sweets as much as possible.

The good thing about this is that it probably won’t be much of a hassle since they don’t have a sweet tooth. It might be weird, but cats don’t have the taste buds that would allow them to pick up the sugar.

Bottom line

We didn’t only manage to find out if cats can drink green tea, but we also figured out what possible benefits they could gain from it.

Unfortunately, we also found out that there are some downsides to cats drinking green tea. However, if you stick to moderation as a key to a healthy cat, you just might succeed.

Don’t forget to talk to your veterinarian about this magnificent royalty beverage. There’s a chance your queen could greatly benefit from it!

Your cat certainly wants to! She’s been meowing and purring your ears off every time she’s seen you drinking anything REMOTELY similar to milk. She probably doesn’t even know the difference between regular (cow, obviously!) milk, almond milk, and other lactose and dairy-free kinds of milk.

What an adorable furry fool! But, you’re starting to think you won’t be able to keep up with this whole “strict pet parent” thing. You won’t be able to keep telling her “NO” whenever she gives you the look. She’ll try to convince you to let her have a lick.

“Argh, can cats drink almond milk?!” Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) don’t seem to have anything against feeding your cat almonds or letting them have a lick or two of almond milk.

Before the two of your head off to Trader Joe’s to get the largest gallon of almond milk they have, you might want to consider a thing or two. Almond milk might be RELATIVELY safe for your curious creature, but that’s not to say that this kind of milk’s rainbows and butterflies.

What’s the deal with almond milk?

“So, how do humans milk almonds?” Let’s be honest, every single person reading this article has (at one point) thought to themselves “How do we even make almond milk? Do we milk the almonds or?”

And, that’s completely fine because we’ve only recently stumbled upon this trend of lactose and dairy-free milk. So, almond milk became popular because it’s creamy, nutty, lactose-free, dairy-free, cholesterol-free, and saturated-fat-free milk. Who wouldn’t want to start their health kick with something like that?

Almond milk’s made of almonds (obviously), and the process seems very simple. You can make your own milk with a cup of almonds, some water, and a high-power blender. Soak the almonds overnight, cover them with water, and throw them in the blender until they’re nice and smooth.

Get rid of the pulp and you’re ready to have a glass of your DIY almond milk! Commercial almond milk, however, does contain a bunch of sweeteners, flavorings, additives, and preservatives to make up for the fact that you’re drinking milk straight out of an almond’s udder!

And don’t worry, you won’t be missing out on any nutrients because almond milk’s beaming with vitamins, minerals, and a little bit of plant protein. However, the age-old question remains, can cats drink almond milk without the repercussions?

Can cats drink almond milk?

Cats can drink almond milk, KIND OF! Sure, a lick or two isn’t going to send your feline friend to the emergency animal center. But, anything more than that might not be the best she’s ever had.

You see, cats are carnivores which means they thrive on meat, animal protein, and other animal nutrients. They don’t need to eat fruits, veggies, and whole grains to stay happy and healthy. They don’t even possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods humans eat on a regular.

What does that mean for this whole “Can cats drink almond milk?” thing? Since cats have VERY specific nutritional needs, their digestive systems are equipped with enzymes necessary to fit those needs.

Cats don’t really need milk once they grow out of drinking their mother’s milk. Therefore, their digestive systems don’t have what it takes to digest any other kind of milk. Yes, that’s right – cats are pretty much lactose intolerant and they shouldn’t drink milk AT ALL.

But, almond milk happens to be lactose-free which means she’s free to have an occasional lick or two. It shouldn’t be a regular part of her diet, but that’s not to say that almond milk doesn’t bring anything good to the table.

What’s good about almond milk?

Your curious creature can’t help but perk up her ears whenever she hears you open the fridge, or scrunch up her nose whenever she catches a whiff of milk. “She can’t drink milk because she’s lactose-intolerant!” a voice in your head reminds you why you shouldn’t capitulate.

“But, look at that adorable face… How can her own pet parent be the monster that refuses her wishes!?” Put that smile back on your face (and on your precious purrincess’s face) because almond milk’s a great alternative to regular milk.

Almond milk’s lactose-free, dairy-free, cholesterol-free, AND saturated-fat-free! It also seems to be barren of everything that makes regular milk bad for your four-legged friend.

What do we mean by that? One of the biggest problems with regular milk happens to be the fact that it can cause a bunch of digestive problems, weight gain, obesity, and diabetes. Almond milk doesn’t contain the things that cause these conditions, and naturally, seems like a better choice.

And (as if we needed any more convincing), almond milk’s beaming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. We’re talking about vitamin E, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. These can boost your cat’s immune system before you can even say “ahchoo.”

Apart from that, commercially available almond milk can contain other vitamins and minerals. These are usually added to enrich the content. But, it also comes with a couple of risks you should keep an eye out for.

What’s bad about almond milk?

Cats CAN drink almond milk, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they should. We wouldn’t say almond milk’s a natural part of a cat’s diet. Wild cats would be caught dead drinking almond milk straight from the almond’s udder (yes, we’re dragging this joke).

And, your not-so-wild cat wouldn’t want to drink almond milk had she been informed that almond milk doesn’t bring THAT many benefits to her table. Sure, almond milk’s beaming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants AND lacking in the lactose department.

But, almond milk’s also beaming with calories, sweeteners, additives, and preservatives. First things first, calories can cause weight gain and obesity. Neither are conditions you want your four-legged friend to have.

Trust me, getting rid of those calories can be IMPOSSIBLE when you have a cat that’s munching on everything she can get her paws on. You’re better off annoying her with an occasional “Nope, you can’t eat that!” than trying to get her hyped over another trending diet.

On the other hand, sweeteners like Xylitol can cause a bunch of health problems. Keep an eye out for digestive problems such as vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. But, more importantly, keep an eye out for symptoms of Xylitol poisoning which are hypoglycemia, weakness, tremors, seizures, and collapse.

Last but not least, preservatives aren’t any more gentle on your cat’s health than sweeteners and other additives. Some preservatives are poisonous to cats and can cause a bunch of problems. So, naturally, you’re better off avoiding them altogether than trying to figure out which are bad and which are not.

So, almond milk might be better than regular milk (to a certain extent). But, that’s not to say that your four-legged friend should scoff down an entire gallon at once.

Can kittens drink almond milk?

You might be surprised to learn that kittens can’t really drink almond milk or any other milk for that matter. You see, the only milk that’s safe for your little munchkin happens to be her mother’s milk. While kittens don’t have as many problems with milk as adult cats, they’re better off sipping on something else.

Other than their mother’s milk, kittens can also drink carefully crafted kitten milk formula. But, they can’t drink cow milk, goat milk, almond milk, or other types of lactose-free and dairy-free kinds of milk. These kinds of milk can cause stomachache, diarrhea, and vomiting.

So no, you shouldn’t let your kitten lick the almond milk you spilled on the counter. Kittens can’t drink almond milk, after all!

Can cats drink other kinds of milk?

Cats CAN have other kinds of milk, but that doesn’t mean that they should. Milk, regardless of the kind, doesn’t really bring that many benefits to the table. Your curious creature’s better off munching on cat food, cat kibble, and cat treats (with a random unhealthy/uncommon treat here and there).

But, there are SO MANY kinds of milk available on the market nowadays that it’s only natural you’re wondering whether any of them would satisfy your cat’s needs. So, we managed to dig up the dirt on these super popular and super delicious kinds of milk.

1. Cow milk

And the tea’s piping hot on this one – cats can’t drink cow milk! Cow milk seems to be one of the worst kinds of milk your curious creature can drink. Cats can’t digest lactose which seems to be why they experience a gnarly gastrointestinal upset whenever they drink cow milk.

Other than that, it’s packed with fat which can cause weight gain, obesity, AND diabetes. Cow milk simply doesn’t seem like something you want your precious pet sipping on when she’s in need of a pick-me-up. Give her a glass of water, or something!

2. Goat milk

Cats can KIND OF drink goat milk, but they shouldn’t when they think of the repercussions. Sure, goat products do seem to be easier to digest than cow ones. But, that doesn’t mean that goat milk doesn’t contain the lactose and the fat that make cow milk bad for your mischievous munchkin.

Make sure you consult with your vet and GO EASY on goat milk. Give her a drop or two every now and then, anything more than that might give her a stomachache.

3. Soy milk

Cats CAN drink soy milk! Soy milk seems to be pretty similar to almond milk because it’s free of most things that make regular milk detrimental to your cat’s health. That’s not to say that you should include soy milk in your cat’s regular diet. However, feel free to surprise her with a sip or two every now and then.

4. Oat milk

We have another winner because cats CAN drink oat milk! Oat milk seems to be a great alternative to regular milk (for the same reasons as other kinds of milk we’ve mentioned). Don’t get me wrong, milk shouldn’t be a regular part of a cat’s diet (unless we’re talking about a kitten). But, oat milk gets an A+ as a treat.

5. Coconut milk

We thought we would end with a bang, but this one might not be the bang you were hoping for. Cats CAN’T drink coconut milk because it’s packed with fats and oils. Coconut milk seems to be pretty tough on your cat’s sensitive stomach, and it’s best for the two of you to avoid this kind of milk entirely.

It’s no secret that they aren’t best friends with this clear liquid. I know hate is a strong word, but they can’t really hide their feelings. However, cat parents often worry about their pets staying hydrated.

People are even buying those expensive water fountains to entice their pets to drink more water. Perhaps you’re doing everything you can but it just isn’t enough.

Those little furry monsters can really be stubborn sometimes. You may think that your pet just isn’t a fan of tap water. It’s just too simple for your little spoiled princess!

Therefore, you might wonder can cats drink alkaline water, and does it perhaps have some health benefits that could improve your pet’s health.

I know you’re willing to try anything in order to get your feline to stay hydrated. Maybe this might help and if it’s packed with health advantages, it might be the real deal.

So, can cats drink alkaline water?

Our pets wouldn’t be so worried about staying hydrated in the wild. Wild cats get enough water by feeding on other animals. That way they always stay hydrated.

But what should you do when your domestic cat’s diet mainly consists of cat-appropriate food which is usually kibble?

Sure, you throw in some of the canned and wet food ever so often. But, is this enough to keep her hydrated? You already said goodbye to tap water because it’s no use so you’re looking for an alternative.

Thankfully, cats can drink alkaline water. However, you shouldn’t overdo this either. Although it has certain health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation.

What is alkaline water?

Alkaline water looks the same as normal, tap water. However, it’s different because it contains a higher pH level than plain water.

The pH scale goes from 0 to 14. Anything with a pH between 0 and 6.9 is acidic, while anything with a pH between 7.1 and 14 is basic.

Cats should ideally consume water that has a pH between 6.2 and 7.0 to lower their risk of urinary tract issues. Alkaline water usually has a pH from 7 to 9.

Therefore, filtered tap water is one of the greatest options for keeping your cat hydrated because distilled water is too acidic for cats and should be avoided.

Use a faucet attachment or pitcher to filter municipal water to get rid of any taste or odor that cats could find repulsive. However, it’s said that alkaline water can offer certain health benefits.

If so, I know you’ll go out of your way and try your best to make your feline lap up some of it. But just how advantageous could it be?

Health benefits of alkaline water

Most believe that alkaline water has a number of health benefits, but more research still needs to be conducted.

Sometimes all you need is a little bit of faith, right? Well, when it comes to our cats – I’ll be honest – no one wants to take any risks.

Therefore, small amounts of alkaline water for your cat here and there won’t be much of a trouble. Your pet would need to drink plenty of it for any damage to be done.

But are those small amounts enough to have a positive impact on your cat’s health? Is it worth it?

1. Can cats drink alkaline water for bone improvement?

It is often said that alkaline water can benefit the bones, as well as muscles. But what is the particular reason for this?

It’s no surprise that calcium plays a huge part in this. We already know that this mineral is crucial for bone development.

Well, alkaline water is high in calcium. Thanks to this health supplement, your feline maintains bone, muscle, as well as heart health.

Next to calcium, magnesium also helps regulate nerve function. Although it can be found in alkaline water in high amounts, calcium is also present in many other nutritious foods such as kiwi.

2. It can soothe acid reflux

Acid reflux can be relieved by drinking alkaline water with a pH of 8.8, as the higher pH level destroys pepsin, an enzyme that is responsible for breaking down meal proteins and is the main cause of acid reflux.

Acid reflux occurs when the stomach’s acidic contents splash back up the food pipe. Long-term acid reflux can damage the esophagus and lead to the condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

When they eat, their stomach is able to produce acidic waste, which might result in acid reflux in their chest. Alkaline water might lessen the likelihood of acid reflux because of its alkaline pH.

The past behaviors of your cat may indicate signs such as food regurgitation, signs of pain (such as meowing or wailing) when swallowing, a lack of appetite, and weight loss. Look out for these symptoms and take your pet to the vet if you notice anything wrong.

3. It reduces high blood pressure

Drinking alkaline water may help reduce high blood pressure (hypertension), high blood sugar, and high blood lipids (cholesterol).

High cholesterol levels are dangerous for felines as much as they’re dangerous for humans. It can be the cause of various cardiovascular diseases.

For instance, your pet is more at risk of getting heart strokes and developing heart conditions. Not to mention the blood clots that could easily form.

But, can cats drink alkaline water in order to get rid of the problem? Unfortunately, it isn’t so simple. It’s said that alkaline water reduces high blood pressure, but there’s not enough research to support that claim.

4. Of course, hydration!

Needless to say, alkaline water can definitely keep your cat hydrated. I’m not saying that tap water doesn’t do its job, but some researchers have found that alkaline water does better than plain tap water.

Still, I know it’s hard finding a way to bribe your pet into taking a sip of it. It’s going to be a long journey ahead of you, but you can never know if you don’t even try.

Remember that cats can drink alkaline water only in small amounts. Therefore, don’t exaggerate and offer it to your pet all the time because it could have an adverse effect on her health.

Can cats drink alkaline water and get sick?

Unfortunately, this is also a possibility. So far, we’ve established that alkaline water has certain benefits, but it also has a couple of downsides to it.

Due to its high pH level, alkaline water should be consumed only in moderation and not on a regular basis. This is because it could cause the following troubles for your pet.

1. Digestive issues

The digestive juices of your cat may be impacted if alkaline water is taken in large quantities. It may cause them to become less acidic, which may have an impact on how well your feline can digest food.

In the short run, this is probably going to upset your pet’s stomach. Diarrhea and stomach ache are some of the possible outcomes. Malnutrition, on the other hand, may develop over time. Your cat won’t obtain the nutrients she requires since she can’t properly digest food.

Furthermore, your cat’s stomach acid is probably going to become less acidic the moment they sip some alkaline water. As a result, it’s possible that the food they’re consuming at this time won’t digest correctly.

To sum it all up, when your cat’s eating, you should avoid providing it water with a high pH since alkaline water can counteract stomach acids that aid in digestion. Alkaline water should be okay to drink if you give it to your cat at least an hour after eating so she has enough time to digest the food.

2. Nursing issues

If you have a pet at home that’s currently trying to take care of her babies, it’s understandable that you want to help that mama out. But can cats drink alkaline water while nursing? Is it going to have a positive effect on both mommy and baby cat?

The truth is that you should completely avoid giving your feline alkaline while she’s nursing as it’s a bad idea. While breastfeeding, cats who drink alkaline water may absorb dangerous amounts of calcium.

Hypercalcemia, which is brought on by an excess of calcium, can result in symptoms including increased urination and thirst, vomiting, and appetite loss.

Increased amounts of calcium in the urine brought on by high blood calcium might result in the formation of kidney or bladder stones.

Kidney damage can develop from kidney stone problems because kidney stones can obstruct the ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder.

Bladder discomfort from bladder stones can lead to tiny, frequent urination, bloody urine, or the need to urinate in unexpected locations throughout the house.

3. Medication + alkaline water = NO

Although occasionally giving your cat very alkaline water is okay, you should avoid doing so if she’s on some kind of medication. Alkaline water will increase your cat’s metabolism, which will hasten the drug’s digestion.

You don’t want that to happen since it’s important for the medicine to enter the body at the rate that has been prescribed by a doctor. If not, it might not provide the desired results.

What pH water should cats consume?

Thankfully, we know the level of pH that cats are supposed to drink. Feline companions should only drink water that has a pH of 6.2 to 7.

This makes food easier to digest and is healthy for a cat’s digestive system and nearby organs. Tiredness, nausea, and/or constipation are among the symptoms that will arise from any departure from this range.

The best water for cats to drink is spring or tap water. These water sources are the purest and have the right pH for a cat’s digestive system.

Other sources of hydration

We know that it’s almost a mission impossible to get your cat to do something they don’t like. It’s especially true when it comes to drinking water.

You wanted to know “can cats drink alkaline water“, but did you ever wonder how you are going to make her focus even on regular tap water? They can sometimes be too stubborn and it’s just not worth it. And those water fountains can be a bit too much for your budget.

Therefore, you should try incorporating certain foods into her diet to keep her hydrated. Kibble won’t do much of a job, but fruits and veggies can.

For instance, blackberries provide an amazing source of hydration and heaps of other health benefits such as vitamins and minerals.

You can never go wrong with fruits and veggies. However, keep in mind that not every fruit is cat-friendly. For instance, even if sultanas could be a great form of hydration for humans, they actually might harm your cat big time.

Bottom line

While drinking alkaline water may have some advantages for pets, you shouldn’t give it to your cat in large quantities. In general, water with a pH that is too high can have an impact on how well your cat digests food and may even cause her stomach acid to become more acidic.

As I already mentioned, nothing bad could happen from just a sip or two. However, the perfect pH level for felines is around 6 to 7. Anything above that could potentially harm your feline.

I’m really confident that they wouldn’t object to dipping their paws in chocolate milk. But, I’m also very well aware of the fact that felines are picky eaters.

Still, I just don’t see how someone could deny this amazing, delicious treat. Sure, it’s not the healthiest drink out there. But, it just makes you wonder if you can share this heavenly beverage with your best friend.

I’m always sad when I can’t offer my pet something I’m having. What makes it even harder is if she’s really eager to try it out.

I know human foods are supposed to be off-limit for our furry companions. However, I sometimes seem to have a hard time staying faithful to my vet and their advice. I will oftentimes sneak some of what I’m having under the table for her to taste.

I’m fully aware that I probably shouldn’t do that. But most cat parents usually think “What’s going to happen if she just has a bite or a sip of something? How bad could it actually be?“

You’re right. Even though they’re small and fragile-looking, our furry companions are actually quite tough. These little creatures can handle a lot of things.

While a sip of some human beverage probably won’t hurt her, the risk still remains. I just want to emphasize the word probably, so you don’t entirely focus on the part that won’t hurt her.

We’re still about to find out if cats can drink chocolate milk. I find it to be my job to deliver the news to you in the best way possible and explain some things.

Can cats drink chocolate milk?

I know you’re probably hoping for a positive answer, but unfortunately, I can’t give you one. The world sure must seem a sad place when your pet isn’t able to enjoy the simple things with you.

I know for a fact how hard it can be to keep your cat away from your treats. My fluffy devil will even paw at the glass of water because she’s that curious.

I sometimes can’t distinguish whether she’s just being a spoiled brat or she’s genuinely interested in new foods. However, there’s always a certain level of concern present whenever they encounter new stuff.

If your feline has come across some chocolate milk while you looked away for two seconds, I understand your worry. Trust me, I’ve been there.

Unfortunately, your worries are justified. Now, I really don’t want to be the bearer of bad news, but I have to say it. Cats cannot drink chocolate milk as it’s not safe for them.

I know this probably wasn’t what you wanted to hear, but it’s the truth. Out of all of the possible human foods that you could share with your pet out there, chocolate milk just isn’t one of those.

It’s some pretty devastating news, especially if you’re reading this right after your pet drank some chocolate milk. If she had a large amount, I suggest you call your vet.

But if your furry companion only got a lick of it, don’t panic. She isn’t likely to feel any consequences of a light sip. Therefore, stick with me to find out more about this treat in detail.

Do cats even like chocolate milk?

I honestly can’t think of anyone not liking chocolate milk. I know that this probably sounds silly, but how can you not love something so sweet and delicious?

Well, if our cats could talk, I’m sure they’d tell us. The thing is that felines aren’t usually drawn to sweet things. Sure, your pet might’ve tried it out and liked it.

So? Do cats enjoy drinking chocolate milk? I’m afraid that it’s not the taste that got your pet all excited. It’s probably the high amount of fat and other nutrients this treat contains.

Here’s something to ease your mind: cats don’t like sweets. It sounds unbelievable, but it’s completely true. Felines don’t have the taste buds that pick up on that sugary flavor.

It sounds unfortunate, but it’s actually quite handy. Therefore, I wouldn’t necessarily say that cats like drinking chocolate milk but hey, to each their own.

What’s wrong with chocolate milk?

Well actually, there’s nothing wrong with chocolate milk. I believe that most people would agree with me.

It’s just so delicious and divine that you can’t possibly find any problem related to this beverage. On the other hand, there’s a clear problem in the cat world.

You don’t really have to be an expert or a veterinarian to understand how certain things function. But, we’re also no magicians to know what our cats’ next step is going to be.

Therefore, I want to give you a detailed description of this drink and list all of the reasons your pet can’t enjoy it. If you want to know why the answer to the question “Can cats drink chocolate milk?” is No, then keep on reading.

1. Chocolate

I want to think that you’re aware of the fact that felines shouldn’t consume chocolate. And when I say that they shouldn’t eat it, it goes for every single kind of chocolate out there.

Whether it be dark, milk, white, or any kind, it’s off-limits for cats. If you want your pet to live many years and stay by your side nice and healthy, you’ll stick to this advice.

If you didn’t already know – chocolate is extremely poisonous to felines. It’s dangerous because it could have a fatal outcome for your pet.

I know that this is terrifying to even hear, but it’s a major concern of every pet owner out there. If you feel like I’m exaggerating or overreacting, I get why you feel that way.

You’re probably thinking to yourself how could something so delicious and harmless-looking be a major threat to my cat’s health?

Well, we all know that looks are deceiving, but chocolate is definitely a master of that proverb. Unfortunately for our furry companions, chocolate is their nemesis.

It contains a couple of compounds that make this treat completely inedible to your pet. The two compounds that make it so toxic to cats are called theobromine and caffeine.

These two can build up in your pet’s digestive system because she’s unable to digest them.

This may cause a series of unwanted events and your pet may exhibit different symptoms of poisoning. Some of these include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, as well as tremors, seizures, and coma.

Now, I’m not saying your pet’s going to die after eating a little chunk of chocolate. However, you should always keep in mind that it’s not good for her; and that things could always get out of control.

2. What about milk?

I honestly feel like this is a worn-out story. Nevertheless, it’s still worth mentioning and educating people about. It’s one of the biggest frauds commercials could’ve committed.

Seriously, cats drinking milk is one of the greatest myths in the cat world. I’m not making this up because science backs me up, as well as mother nature.

You see, felines are lactose intolerant. So, next time when you ask yourself can cats drink chocolate milk, it will probably pop up out of the back of your mind.

You’re probably confused by this new information because you’ve always seen cats drinking milk in cartoons, movies, as well as commercials.

I’m sorry to be the one to burst your bubble, but it’s not true. Sure, felines will lap up milk if you give it to them but the real question is are they allowed?

To make things more clear – as they grow older and don’t need their mom’s milk anymore, cats lose the needed enzymes for breaking down lactose, a sugar found in milk.

That’s why dairy products may cause struggle for your pet’s digestive health. It might cause bloating, gasses, as well as vomiting, and diarrhea.

Just like any dairy product, no matter where it comes from – cows, goats – milk is bound to make your feline uncomfortable.

Some pets might deal with it better than others. It all depends, because just like humans, our pets are individuals and every one of them has distinct experiences.

Lactose intolerance is a problem for all cats. Unfortunately, there’s something else that might not be a trouble for all of them, but certainly is for some cats.

3. Dairy allergies

As if you haven’t been scared enough by now, cats can also have dairy allergies. You know how she’s been allergic to seafood lately, right?

Well, the same thing can happen with dairy products. I know that this is probably the last thing you want to hear right now. But hey, don’t blame the messenger! I’m here only to help you understand why your pet can’t enjoy some of the deliciousness this drink brings.

You wanted to know “Can cats drink chocolate milk?” and I’m only helping you out the best I can. Therefore, when I say that milk shouldn’t be a part of your pet’s diet, you better trust me.

The thing with allergies is that you can never know if your pet has one until she tries it out. If your cat has lapped up some milk and you’re worried she’s allergic to dairy, you might want to keep an eye on her.

Some of the symptoms of dairy allergies might include vomiting, diarrhea, as well as stomach pains. All of these symptoms mirror the ones of lactose intolerance. Well, that’s definitely true, but thankfully, there’s a slight difference.

If your pet’s allergic to something, she will most likely exhibit symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, as well as respiratory problems.

Nevertheless, it would be best if you keep your feline away from any dairy products. If she gets the runs, she definitely won’t be the only one in trouble!

Why can’t cats drink chocolate milk?

I’ve already mentioned the fact that chocolate is extremely dangerous to felines and explained it in detail. Also, I’ve touched upon milk as one of the greatest myths in the cat world, and the impact it has on felines.

Now it’s time to delve deeper into this topic. I’ll let you know all of the details of this drink and all the health disadvantages it has for your fur kid.

This will hopefully help you understand just how and why this tasty treat isn’t good for your kitten.

I want you to be fully aware of how this works and why the relationship between cats and chocolate milk isn’t a healthy one. Therefore, let’s dig even deeper into this delicious beverage.

1. High amounts of sugar

This is really unfortunate, but chocolate milk has high amounts of sugar that just aren’t healthy for pets. Felines can’t benefit from these carbs in any way.

Moreover, they can only be detrimental to your pet’s health. I know you’re probably thinking how she’s had sugar before and nothing bad happened ever again.

Well, you’re right but to some degree. The effects of sugar intake might not be visible in an instant or in a short period of time. Just because it’s not poisonous, it doesn’t mean it’s not dangerous.

People tend to forget about the long-term effects and what consequences it might leave on their furry companion. I don’t want to raise alarms but be prepared for some bad news.

Like I previously said, your feline won’t die because she licked a bit of sugar or ate something that has sugar in it. However, she might experience troubles later on.

If your pet consumes sugar on a regular basis, she might become obese. While this is usually something everyone cooes at, it’s not cute at all.

Additional weight puts a lot of stress on your feline’s joints. This could possibly set the grounds for developing arthritis later on.

Moreover, sugar can also lead to the development of diabetes, dental decay, and many other dangerous diseases. This can really ruin the quality of your pet’s life, so you must look after her.

2. Fats, calories, and carbs

All of these nutrients can be found in abundance in chocolate milk. You wanted to find out if cats can drink chocolate milk, so here you go.

I believe you understand by this point that things aren’t looking the best for your feline, but just to demonstrate to you more closely, we’re bringing in more details as well.

You see, we all need the fat that’s healthy for us and our bodies. We need the kind of fat that’s going to keep our bodies happy and fueled. Unfortunately, you won’t find that kind of fat in chocolate milk.

The fats found in this drink are unhealthy ones that can cause a lot of problems that are health-related. The issues might occur in weight gain, blood clotting, as well as heart strokes, and other heart diseases.

Calories and carbs are only adding to the weight and ruining your pet’s life. Therefore, make sure you stick with her usual diet and leave the sweets for yourself.

And then again, who would’ve thought your curious creature would be sitting next to you, blissfully unaware, purring and meowing as you try to figure out whether you can surprise her with breakfast in bed? Who would’ve thought this would be your life?

Yet here you are. You were completely taken aback earlier today when you caught her throwing curious glances at your glass of orange deliciousness. She’s never been the kind of cat to show interest in anything other than her regular cat food and cat treats, so she took you by surprise.

She’s been eating and drinking the same thing for years (Cat Chow Complete and a fresh bowl of water for the win!) But she seems to be drawn to the refreshing joy of biting into a juicy orange slice or the mouth-watering sensation of taking a sip of citrus juice (you’re to blame for that!)

So, can cats drink orange juice? Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), deem oranges VERY poisonous to cats. And, you might have guessed this yourself, orange juice doesn’t get a passing grade either.

While super delicious, nutritious, and healthy for humans, orange juice can make your cat regret her sudden love of all things citrus. And because we want you and your mischievous monster to be safe and sound at all times, here’s everything you need to know about what makes oranges A BIG NO-NO.

What’s the deal with oranges?

“What’s orange juice made of!?” asked pretty much nobody because this popular drink hasn’t circumvented anyone. Trust me, you can find freshly squeezed or commercially available orange juice wherever you go. Makes you wonder, what makes oranges so a-peel-ing?

As a matter of fact, oranges are one of the most popular fruits out there. They’re round, orange-colored (obviously!) citrus fruits grown on trees. They originally grew only in China, but they made their way everywhere else.

Oranges are a true superfood (as TikTokers LOVE to call everything that has vitamin C) – a powerhouse of nutritional benefits and a treasure house of health benefits. They’re filled to the brim with vitamin C, vitamin A, folate, thiamine, calcium, and potassium.

One orange a day can boost your immune system, maintain the proper production of collagen, protect your cells from damage, slow down the onset of eye-related diseases, and help fight cancer-causing free radicals within your body. We’re pretty sure that an orange a day keeps the doctor away.

And, don’t even get me started on the fact that your morning glass of orange juice probably contains more than one orange. So, while we’re on the whole proverb thing, the more the merrier!

But, we can’t say that your little feline friend can reap the same benefits from drinking a glass of orange juice. Actually, felines tend to do the exact opposite most of the time.

Can cats drink orange juice?

To cut a long story short, cats cannot drink orange juice. We know you’re probably pretty disappointed right now, but you need to trust the fact that this tasty treat wasn’t meant for your furry friend.

You see, cats are carnivores. They need meat (animal-derived nutrients) in their diets in order to survive and thrive. They don’t need fruits, veggies, and whole grains in their diets the same way you do.

Actually, they don’t even possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods we as humans eat regularly. For example, they can’t (or at least shouldn’t) drink milk because they can’t have lactose. They can’t eat sweet things because they can’t taste them AND they can’t have sugar.

So, what does that mean when we’re talking about letting your furry friend drink orange juice? First things first, you can’t let her and that’s what you need to tell her when she gives you the look: “No, Mrs. McFluffer, you can’t drink orange juice or you’ll end up at the emergency animal clinic!” – or something like that.

Trust me, there are so many things that could go wrong on the off-chance that your cat drinks whatever’s left of your orange juice.

We say “on the off-chance” because oranges are actually cat repellents, meaning cats generally HATE the smell and the taste of citrus. So, we’re pretty sure your cat wouldn’t even want to drink it.

That’s great news because these little fruits can cause a bunch of problems to your cat – from digestive problems and heartburn to weight problems because of the sugar, and even depression because of the citric acid.

Grab a pen and paper because you might want to take notes for the following section.

What happens if your cat drinks orange juice?

Where do we even start!? Cats can’t drink orange juice because they can’t eat oranges.

Orange juice typically contains a bunch of oranges (obviously!?) and a bunch of sugar. Not to mention that orange juice contains a fair amount of compounds (psoralens, acids, oils, etc.) that can and will make your cat’s life miserable.

So, before you and your precious purrincess explore your summer mocktail pawsibilities, you might want to throw a glance at some of these lesser-known (and very bad!) orange components.

1. Psoralens

Psoralens are one of those things that are POTENTIALLY bad for humans – we’re not fully aware of what they can do, but we’re aware that they can’t do any good. And, what’s even worse, psoralens are pretty much everywhere around us because they can be found within ALL citrus fruits (yup, lemons and limes too).

Here’s what we do know. Psoralens can cause your (and your cat’s) skin to become extremely sensitive to sunlight, resulting in irritation, rash, sunburn, and even malignant melanoma. Your little furry friend might not be likely to drink that much, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

2. Citric acid

Here’s where things get even worse for this tasty drink. Cats can’t drink orange juice because oranges contain citric acid. And, according to our friends over at the ASPCA, citric acid shouldn’t be anywhere near your feline friend’s stomach.

That’s right, citric acid is poisonous to cats. Some of the most common symptoms of citrus poisoning to keep an eye out for are drooling, weakness, depression, vomiting, and diarrhea. Make sure you also take note of skin rashes, irritations, and hives – you never know where her paws might have been.

3. Essential oils

Trust me, essential oils for cats are never a good idea. Cats don’t possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and process most drugs, medications, or essential oils. Consuming these things can result in an array of digestive and other health problems.

And, of course, oranges (orange peels, to be exact) contain essential oils. Orange essential oils can be used as cat repellents because cats ABSOLUTELY hate their smell – they scrunch up their noses, perhaps give them a little sniff, and run off.

That’s great because they’re not likely to munch on them, but you can never be too sure.

4. Sugar

“Sugar, no please…” aren’t those the words of that Maroon 5 song? No? Well, they certainly should be because your four-legged friend shouldn’t nibble on sugar whatsoever. And before you go “OMG, we can’t imagine our lives without sugar!” on me, sugar isn’t on ASPCA’s naughty list.

But, that’s not to say that sugar won’t send your (potentially chonky) cat to the emergency vet. Drinking orange juice (that contains AT LEAST twice as much sugar as an orange) can cause your cat problems with teeth, weight gain, obesity, and diabetes.

We’re feeling pretty alarmed; how about you!?

5. Allergies

And, of course, cats can’t drink orange juice because of the chance of experiencing an allergic reaction. That’s right, cats can be allergic to oranges and other ingredients you can find in orange juice (sweeteners, preservatives, the list goes on and on).

That’s why you should always consult with your vet before making any changes to your cat’s eating or drinking habits. You can never be completely sure whether your cat’s developed certain allergies and sensitivities over time. Give your vet a call, and voilà!

Every time she sees you sipping on your Starbucks Soy Milk Latte, she starts meowing and purring your ears off. She starts putting her paws on your cup (checking whether she can open the lid!?) and gently pushing your hands to make the cup jiggle and release the whisker-wiggling aroma.

She’s clearly trying her best to show you she’s obsessed with your order (and who wouldn’t be, it’s delicious!?) “Hmm, does she want a lick of my coffee or a taste of the soy milk? What am I going on about!? Cats don’t like coffee, she’s clearly after the milk!”

We’re really hoping your mischievous monster isn’t looking to open her own cat-friendly coffee shop (one major problem there – caffeine’s poisonous to cats!) But, given that she’s honestly trying to get you to add soy milk to your grocery list, you might want to take a step back.

Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) don’t recommend giving soy milk to your cat. Soy is not poisonous to cats, but this plant-based beverage does contain a couple of other things that raise questions.

Can cats drink soy milk without any adverse reactions? Can soy milk substitute other sources of hydration and nutrition for your cat? And, can your cat reap any of the benefits soy milk brings to the table? Take a look at what we’ve put together for you before you draw your own conclusions.

Cats are lactose intolerant!?

Oh boy, are you going to be knocked out of your seat if you’ve been living under a rock the past couple of decades! Chances are you’ve been fooled by everyone and everything around you telling you that cats absolutely love drinking milk.

You’ve grown up seeing Tom and Jerry fighting over a thing of milk. Or witnessing Garfield’s love of lasagna (cheese and milk galore) manifesting in his dreams. Or picking out parts of pretty much every single Disney show featuring adorable kittens lapping up a bowl of milk.

Fast forward to today. You’re about to learn that cats are actually lactose intolerant! “Wait, what!? How’s that even a thing!? Was my whole life a lie!?” While they’re adorable little kittens, cats drink their mother’s milk because that’s the only milk that possesses the nutrients they need.

As they grow up, becoming bigger and stronger, they start to lose the need for those nutrients. At the same time, they also start to lose the lactase enzyme that’s necessary to break down and process the lactose that’s found in their mother’s milk.

So, when they’re grown up and accustomed to a different diet (meat, meat, and more meat), they don’t need to drink milk. And, that pretty much includes every single type of milk (cow’s milk, goat’s milk) that contains lactose.

I hear you: “But, soy milk doesn’t contain lactose, not so? Not only that, most humans who can’t have lactose drink soy milk instead of regular milk. Does that mean cats can drink soy milk?”

Can cats drink soy milk?

We’re aware of what goes on behind closed doors of households ruled by four-legged friends. They lurk around every corner, waiting for you to let your guard down so that they can snatch whatever you’re munching on.

Our kittos don’t care whether that something can cause them harm or that they could end up at the emergency animal center. They simply want to see whether the faces you make while you eat have grounds to stand on. And, that’s exactly how they feel about your Starbucks Soy Milk Latte!

But, to everyone’s (especially your cat’s) demise, cats can’t drink soy milk. Soy milk might not be poisonous to cats. But that’s not to say that your cat should drink this plant-based beverage like it’s nothing. One or two licks won’t hurt her THAT much, but you might not want to take that chance.

“What seems to be the problem with soy milk? It’s lactose-free, it’s healthy for humans, and it’s simply the most delicious substitute for regular milk!” That’s true, but humans and cats are VERY different from each other (regardless of what we’d like to think).

Soy milk’s pretty great – when you turn a blind eye to the fact that it’s filled to the brim with carbohydrates and calories that can be detrimental to your cat’s health. Soy milk is typically made from soybeans that have been soaked in boiling water, processed, and strained afterward.

Commercially available soy milk contains a whole lot of sweeteners, additives, and preservatives that are supposed to make the milk taste better and last longer. But these also make the milk undrinkable for your feline friend.

Why cats shouldn’t drink soy milk

Maybe you need more convincing because “But, but, but… My cat’s been giving me the look and I’m not sure whether I can keep telling her that she can’t have soy milk!” That’s completely fine. But here’s a list of things that should be able to sway you and your cat in the right direction.

1. Digestive problems

Soy milk is high in sugar, which is harmful to your cat’s health! Your cat can have a little bit of sugar every now and then. But she shouldn’t make a habit out of it. Sugar is a carbohydrate, and her digestive system can’t process carbohydrates properly because of the lack of enzymes.

Nausea, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea are only some of the digestive problems your cat may face if she has a go at the rogue carton of soy milk sitting on your kitchen counter. Bad, bad kitty! (And poor, poor kitty afterward!)

2. Tooth decay

And, that same sugar can cause dental disease. Dental disease can lead to tooth decay when left untreated, and can even result in tooth loss. Your little carnivore needs her teeth to munch her kibble and other meaty treats, so you might want to schedule a quick dental check-up.

3. Weight gain and obesity

And, of course, that same sugar can cause your (already somewhat chonky) cat to gain weight. While you might think there’s nothing wrong with a little bit of chub, obesity brings about a whole host of issues such as diabetes, joint strain, and arthritis.

Let’s put things into perspective. Your four-legged friend’s better off munching and sipping on something she can actually benefit from. Clean and fresh water, carefully curated cat foods, and cat treats are the way to go.

Well, if I’m being honest, it was more of a “What should I do if my cat drinks apple juice?” since she’s already helped herself to some.

To certain people, this might sound like such a silly question. Those who aren’t the owners of these little hairy monsters oftentimes find our struggles to be funny.

I’m sure I’d be laughing too, but only if I were on the other side. When you’re watching things take place right before your own eyes, it’s a totally different story.

I don’t blame my cat, though. It’s in her nature to be curious about things, especially if they smell nice. Also, I can’t say for sure that I wouldn’t do the same if I was her!

When you think about it, apple juice is refreshing, sweet, and aromatic. Who could resist, really? But the real question here is: should cats resist the urge to dip their whiskers in apple juice?

We know it’s yummy and, for the most part, healthy for humans. But I’ve never heard of felines drinking apple juice before, so it was quite a shock.

I’ve had my furchild for a while now and you’d think that I’d be used to her antics by now. But she somehow always finds a way to make my heart jump into my throat.

Therefore, I set out to find out whether cats can drink apple juice. Honestly, I did this to steady my racing heart and stop myself from making a frantic vet call.

Can cats drink apple juice?

If I didn’t know better, I’d say you’re here out of pure curiosity. But I know how inquisitive cats can be, and although it’s endearing, it’s stressful sometimes.

They want to discover all the new things, smells, textures, and flavors. That’s totally fine and a part of who they are. And if you’re a cat owner, you better make peace with that.

You just can’t keep anything from them. And if you try, they’re probably going to outsmart you pretty quickly. But it’s worth a shot, only if you remember to hide things from your pet…

I forgot, so I’m going to pay the price. The price was actually pretty high – a nervous breakdown! Well, I don’t want to overreact or exaggerate, but I was pretty darn freaked out!

I’m fully aware that she isn’t supposed to eat human foods or drink our beverages. It was quite strange to me that she even showed interest in my glass of apple juice.

I know it’s tasty, but I also know she can be rather picky. That’s why I was amazed to find her fur all sticky. She tried to bathe herself before she got caught red-handed. Just when she thought she was going to sneak out and leave the empty glass a mystery, turns out she’s not as stealthy as she thinks she is.

Of course, I couldn’t stay mad at her for that long. One look from her was all it took for me to melt like ice cream on a hot day.

But I didn’t calm down until I eventually found out that cats can drink apple juice. Or let me rephrase – it’s not recommended, but it’s nothing to panic about.

Is there any use in apple juice?

Well, I’d be lying if I said that I’m not a fan of apple juice. I’ll argue that it has certain benefits for me just because I want to keep enjoying it.

However, things take a completely different turn when it comes to my furbaby. No matter how much I like something, I’m going to be totally honest about it.

If it concerns my cat’s health, then I’m definitely going to look further into it. Until I’m convinced it’s 100% safe for my kitto, I’m not taking any chances.

If need be, I’d totally give up my apple juice or applesauce in order for my feline to stay healthy. But let’s cut to the chase. Can cats drink apple juice and is it any good for them?

If you want the short answer, it would be yes, cats can safely drink a bit of apple juice. It’s not poisonous to them. But do they really need it in their diet? No. Then how could they benefit from it?

What about protein?

Apple juice contains traces of protein, which means that this nutrient surely isn’t abundant in this fruity drink. However, is it enough to treat your pet with some apple juice?

Definitely not. Even though cats need protein in order to stay fit and healthy, they just don’t need the type of protein from apple juice. But now you’re thinking protein is still protein, right? Let me explain.

Felines are obligate carnivores, which means they need to eat meat in order to survive and thrive. Animal protein is what keeps them going and it fuels their body.

This nutrient is important for various bodily functions and it gives your pet energy. It also keeps her coat slick and shiny, and her bones and claws in tip-top shape.

But here’s the catch. You can’t just see the word “protein” and assume that food is a good choice for your carnivorous cat. The type of protein that is of benefit to felines comes from animal-based products. Otherwise, it’s almost of no use.

How could this be? Well, the proteins found in plants have a different amino acid makeup to that of animal-derived proteins.

So, when asking yourself if your cat can drink apple juice, you first must consider all the pros and cons of it. While protein is generally a pro, in this case, it just doesn’t suffice.

Vitamins and minerals?

Even though protein content won’t win the race for apple juice, maybe its other nutrients will.

Apple juice is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, vitamin B6, magnesium, vitamin D, calcium, and many more.

We know apples are healthy, right? But just how much of that healthy stuff is retained in this sweet glass of juice? To be honest, not many health advantages of apple juice mirror those in the actual fruit.

However, there still is a considerable amount of good stuff that your pet might benefit from. These vitamins and minerals keep your pet’s immune system in check.

They also have an important role in maintaining strong bones, a healthy nervous system, muscle contractions, and others. But is this good enough to treat your pet with some apple juice?

Honestly, felines will get all the needed nutrients from their regular meat-based diet. There’s no need to try to supplement that.

So, just because cats can technically drink apple juice, it doesn’t mean that they should. Make sure she gets properly fed and you won’t have anything to worry about.

What are the downsides to cats drinking apple juice?

Surely, you were also expecting to hear some downsides. It’s really unfortunate that our pets can’t always enjoy the treats we do.

But it’s for the best. While apple juice might be good for us, it’s better if your pet avoids it. Thankfully, it’s not toxic or anything like that, but instead simply unnecessary.

1. High sugar content

Unfortunately, one of the downsides to cats drinking apple juice is the amount of sugar it contains. You know that sweet taste you have left in your mouth after it? Well, sorry to break it to you, but it’s not just apples.

It’s also lots and lots of sugar. We love it and don’t seem to have any problem with it. Our felines, on the other hand, do.

Now, it’s not uncommon to see our furry companions digging their paws into something sweet. However, do they really need all of the sugar? Actually, they don’t. Cats don’t require carbs, therefore they don’t need sugar.

The thing is that they don’t even have a sweet tooth. More precisely, cats don’t have the taste buds that would allow them to pick up sweetness. So their penchant for your sweet treats is more likely just their desire to have what you’re having.

Excess amounts of sugar will harm your pet long-term. Although it’s not poisonous, larger quantities can ruin her quality of life.

For instance, sugar consumption may lead to various diseases such as diabetes, as well as obesity. Not to mention tooth decay! Talk about one unhappy kitto!

Therefore, keep sugary treats out of her bowl. Besides, she’d much rather appreciate a meaty snack.

2. All the additives

This modern, urban life is completely different than that of a couple of decades ago. The demand for certain products has skyrocketed.

This means that factories use more and more methods to fulfill the market demand. Unfortunately, this has brought about the use of various artificial flavors and additives.

Can cats drink apple juice because of all of these preservatives? Well, I’d better say it out loud: NO. We’re accustomed to them, but our cats aren’t.

Sure, she can sample it without any major consequences. It’s not like you’ll need to rush to the vet the moment she takes one lick of apple juice. But it’s certainly no good for her in the long run.

And don’t think products labeled “low sugar” or “sugar-free” are any better either. One of the most famous and widely used artificial sweeteners is xylitol.

This chemical compound is added to many sweets and drinks to add flavor. Unfortunately, it’s extremely toxic to felines and could cause major damage.

3. High-calorie drink

Just like most beverages these days, apple juice is abundant in calories. And as we know, calories can either be beneficial or quite the opposite.

What’s really unfortunate is that apple juice is packed with calories that are quite unnecessary in your pet’s diet. You see, she does get calories daily. But have you ever thought about what happens when she has too many? Honestly, I believe you know the outcome.

You know when you drink too much apple juice or eat too many sweets, you add those few pounds? Why are holidays so bittersweet? Well, it’s because we know we’re going to eat delicious foods but will later regret it.

However, cats don’t seem to give too much thought to their weight. That’s why your pet would probably indulge in it without thinking about the consequences. But the truth is that it could be unhealthy for her.

Too many calories will eventually lead to weight gain. Although being chonky may look cute, it will inevitably some additional health issues for her in the future.

You’d say you’re a pretty big fan of fizzy drinks. But, your four-legged friend has been giving you the side-eye ever since you uttered the words “can of Coke.” She’s been purring and meowing, trying to melt your heart with her adorable shenanigans so that you would agree to let her have a taste.

You’d be the first to admit – Coke, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, or Mountain Dew aren’t necessarily the definition of a healthy beverage you should drink on a hot summer’s day. But, oh boy, does a can of Coke cool you off like nothing else when you’re overheating because your apartment doesn’t know how to go below 90 °F.

What’s even worse – your curious creature doesn’t seem to be fond of water.

She keeps pushing her drinking dish away, sniffing every crevice, and splashing the water everywhere. She keeps licking around the dish, tasting the water, and (you assume) thinking to herself “Wow, I’ve never tasted anything so bland!”

You’d love to spice things up with something up your ally (like a can of Coke, of course). But, can cats even drink soda? Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) don’t recommend sharing a can of soda with your cat.

You’re better off avoiding such risky business, but you’re probably looking for more than “nope, don’t do that.” Hence, here’s everything you need to know about your cat’s drinking habits before you start drawing conclusions.

What can cats drink?

Oh boy, this could be a rollercoaster of emotions for pet parents who’ve been living a lie for years! Trust me, your cat’s hydration chronicles might not be as simple as you thought they were. Especially on the off chance that you thought your cat can drink everything you can.

Let’s start from the beginning – cats are carnivores. That means that they need a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets to survive. They don’t really need a lot of the nutrients humans eat every day (fruits, veggies, whole grains).

They don’t even possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and process most foods humans eat on a regular. So, the carefully crafted cat foods and cat treats you’ve been feeding to her reflect exactly that – they’re filled to the brim with nutrients she needs to grow happy and healthy.

What does that mean when we’re talking about their drinking habits, though? Does that mean that the same rules apply when we’re considering what to let our furry friends drink? That’s exactly right – when considering how to get your cat’s hydration levels up, consider what she would be drinking in the wild.

Water, right? That’s pretty much the only thing your cat needs to drink. Provide her with fresh, clean water and she won’t have to deal with problems such as dehydration. More importantly, she won’t have to deal with added sugars, sweeteners, and preservatives that come with drinking soda.

If she doesn’t like the taste of water, she can always munch on wet foods more frequently than dry foods. “Meow Mix sounds great, but Fancy Feast’s where the fun starts! And with that can of Coke…” Argh, can cats drink soda?!

Can cats drink soda?

Cats can’t drink soda! We understand you’re probably devastated to learn you can’t share a can of your favorite soda with your cat on a hot summer day, but lighten up.

You can cool her off with a glass of water. You’ll want to do that once you learn the ramifications of letting your cat drink soda. And, oh boy, there are MANY!

How about we start this off by NOT ignoring the fact that soda isn’t (and shouldn’t be) recommended for human consumption? Soda, regardless of the type or the brand, typically contains a bunch of sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives that are everything but healthy.

Don’t even get me started on caffeine, citric acid, and phosphoric acid! Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine can cause confusion, weakness, headaches, irritability, heartburn, muscle aches, vomiting, and diarrhea (the list goes on and on).

Some of these symptoms can develop into something much more serious and severe when left untreated. So, imagine what caffeine would do to your precious purrincess.

Citric acid and phosphoric acid aren’t necessarily bad for humans (except for their teeth!). But, that’s not to say that they aren’t bad for cats. These two types of acid are typically added to sodas to make them taste better (or last longer). But, they also make them A LOT worse for cats.

Long story short – cats can’t drink soda. Worry not, there are numerous alternatives available on the market that you don’t really have to resort to saying “No” the moment that your cat meows at you. You can always keep an ace (aka Meow Mix) up your sleeve for when she starts acting like a bratty teenager.

“Argh, why can’t I just give her a sip of soda? What’s so bad about soda?!” Keep on reading, then!

What are the reasons why you shouldn’t let your cat drink soda?

1. Caffeine

“What!? My four-legged friend DOESN’T need caffeine to function throughout the day!?” That’s right, your cat might seem miserable when she wakes up because she’s not wagging her tail. Trust me, that’s only because she’s not a dog, not because she needs a pick-me-up.

Caffeine can actually be INCREDIBLY dangerous to cats, which seems to be the main reason why cats can’t drink soda. Most types of soda (Coke, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, Mountain Dew, Sprite, AND their diet versions) can give you that familiar caffeine kick. While you might enjoy that, your cat certainly doesn’t.

Caffeine can actually cause toxicity (or poisoning) when consumed excessively. Some of the most common symptoms are increased heart rate, hyperactivity, restlessness, raised blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias, tremors, and seizures.

Caffeine can also cause digestive problems such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Actually, these digestive side effects can help your cat get rid of the caffeine while she’s waiting to be treated by a professional. Contact your vet (obviously!) the moment that you notice any of the symptoms.

2. Sugar, sweeteners, and preservatives

We don’t have to even tell you why sugar, sweeteners, and preservatives are bad for your cat! These (very often) hidden ingredients can cause a bunch of digestive problems to your feline friend.

Felines don’t really possess the digestive enzymes necessary to break down and process sugar. You can only assume what happens when they decide to ignore your pleas and scoff down an entire can of Coke. Vomiting, diarrhea, and even constipation can (and will) become their reality for at least a couple of hours.

And, that’s pretty mild in comparison to what most artificial sweeteners and preservatives can do to your precious purrincess. Things like Xylitol can cause health problems when consumed over a longer period of time. Not to mention that some of the safe-for-humans preservatives are poisonous to cats.

Trust me, you’re much better off avoiding anything that contains these ingredients because they aren’t a natural part of your cat’s diet for a reason.

3. Different sorts of acids

We’re talking about citric acid and phosphoric acid for the most part. But, these ingredients depend on the type of soda and the brand. Either way, you should NEVER feed anything that contains any of these ingredients to your cat. Why? – you might be asking.

First things first, when you combine acids with sugar you get a pretty HORRIBLE concoction that can wear away at your cat’s teeth. And, obviously, your cat needs strong and healthy teeth to be able to eat the foods she’s supposed to eat – like meat. Teeth-related pain can cause loss of appetite, weight loss, and anorexia.

On the other hand, acids can also generally wreak havoc when we’re talking about your cat’s digestive system. Such acids are extremely tough on her tummy and can cause her stomach discomfort, vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. Actually – citric acid’s considered poisonous to cats.

Can cats drink other drinks?

“Okay, the answer to the question “Can cats drink soda” caught me by surprise. My four-legged friend and I couldn’t be more gutted – but, can cats drink other drinks then? Maybe we could share a mocktail or a cup of tea? Come on, give us something we can work with!”

We’ve already touched upon this topic at the very beginning of the article – water seems to be the best thing you can give your cat to drink. Water’s a natural part of a cat’s diet and doesn’t contain pretty much anything that could cause her harm.

Most other drinks contain at least SOMETHING questionable! Consult with your vet and check whether he agrees to let the two of you experiment a little bit. Here’s what we gathered about cats and the different drinks they can/can’t drink.

1. Coffee

Cats can’t drink coffee! Coffee contains caffeine (obviously!) which seems to be the main reason why coffee’s on your cat’s naughty list. Caffeine’s poisonous to cats and can cause a bunch of health problems starting with caffeine toxicity.

Some of the most common symptoms of caffeine toxicity are drooling, difficulty breathing, wheezing, excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some severe cases can even experience symptoms of abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures, and coma.

Contact your vet the moment that you notice any of these symptoms (or even the moment that you notice your curious creature licking leftover coffee). Other than that, make sure your morning cup of coffee stays out of your cat’s reach AT ALL TIMES.

2. Tea

Cats can’t drink tea! Actually, they can’t drink tea for the same reason they can’t drink coffee – caffeine. Most commercially available tea (Starbucks tea, too!) contains a certain amount of caffeine that can cause harm to your cat’s health.

Consult with your vet and check whether there’s a loophole the two of you can count on. For example, diluted herbal tea shouldn’t have the same effect on your cat as the regular, store-bought type.

Chamomile, valerian, peppermint, apples, peaches, and blueberries could be exactly what your cat’s looking for – the two of you could finally live up to your Bridgerton tea party dreams!

3. Milk

You might not be expecting this answer, but – cats can’t drink milk! Most cats are lactose intolerant, regardless of what the media made you think. While they’re kittens they can drink their mother’s milk. But, the moment they wean off of the milk they no longer need those types of nutrients.

Their digestive system starts losing the lactase enzyme that’s responsible for breaking down and processing lactose. As a result, most adult cats can’t have lactose or they start having horrible digestive problems. Some cats can have a little bit of milk, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

4. Juice

Cats can’t have juice! This seems like a series of don’ts and can’ts. But, your cat doesn’t really need anything other than water to get her hydration levels up. Juice might be a great choice for you, but your cat could experience a bunch of digestive problems – or worse.

Not only are juices bad for cats because they contain sugar. But, they can be dangerous depending on the type of fruit they’re made out of. Oranges, lemons, limes, and cherries can send your cat to the emergency animal center because they’re poisonous to cats! Yikes!

5. Alcohol

You might be looking to share your hangover stories with your favorite four-legged friend, but… Cats can’t drink alcohol! What might seem like a lick of wine to you could potentially send your cat to your vet’s office. You’re better off keeping those hidden liquor bottles to yourself, after all.

There’s nothing else to say – alcohol’s poisonous to cats and shouldn’t be given to them under any circumstances. As little as a single sip could lead to vomiting, wobbles, hyperactivity, decreased reflexes, depression, and hypothermia. And higher doses could actually have fatal results.

You never thought you’d have to wait for your cat to finish playing IN THE SINK before you can brush your teeth in the morning. You’re pretty sure she’s out of this world because you’ve never heard of anything like that before you adopted her (or she adopted you, might have been a mutual thing).

Our curious creatures need water as much as we do, and we drink tap water every day without batting an eye. Or least those of us who aren’t Kylie Jenner and can’t afford a fridge filled with Perrier, Evian, and Fiji. Or those of us who have better things to do than to spend our money on overpriced bottled water.

Anyway, your precious purrincess doesn’t mind the tap whatsoever. You’re worried she would spend the entire day soaking her little paws, wetting her nifty nose, and hydrating her little heart out.

You’re pretty sure she’s convinced everyone in the house that the sink’s her gain drinking bowl. But, can she drink tap water?

Cats can drink tap water as long as humans can drink the same tap water, too. Certain types of tap water (or certain sources) aren’t even safe for human consumption and they wouldn’t be safe for feline consumption. We’re bringing you everything you need to know as a cat parent.

Why does drinking water matter to your cat?

Cats need water as much as we do – drinking enough water on a day-to-day basis prevents diseases, keeps their energy levels up, regulates their body temperature levels, helps digest food and filter out waste, and speeds up their recovery.

But, cats are notoriously bad water drinkers. They can actually TASTE the water – regardless of what your middle school teacher told you about water not having a taste. They have the necessary taste receptors that help them detect and taste the water that they’re drinking, on the off chance that they’re drinking it at all.

You see, cats prefer munching on cat foods and cat treats. You might notice that your little munchkin gets really, really excited whenever you feed her wet foods. Much more than when serving foods on the drier side. And, you might notice she drinks even less water on days when she’s throwing a wet food feast.

That’s because most cats regulate and maintain their hydration levels through wet foods, wet treats, and other sources of water that need chewing. Most cats hate drinking out of their drinking bowls because they simply prefer moving water (which has something to do with their ancestors).

That’s a problem because cats need one ounce of water for each pound of body weight (as recommended by our friends over at the ASPCA – American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals). That’s why cats can easily become dehydrated, which is a problem on its own.

Some of the most common symptoms of dehydration are weakness, depression, sunken eyes, loss of appetite, and dry mouth. Contact your vet the moment that you notice any of these symptoms. Give her some fresh, clean water to drink, and don’t panic.

She should be back to her normal, energetic self before you can even utter “Drink!”

Can cats drink tap water?

Now that we brushed up on our knowledge about hydration, we can move on to what you came here for – can cats drink tap water? But, like with everything else related to your mischievous monster, there can’t be a black or white answer.

Cats can drink tap water, but there are a couple of things to keep an eye out for. The general rule of the thumb is that you can give your cat a little bit of tap water as long as you can drink a little, too. The type of tap water that isn’t safe for you (aka, a human), isn’t going to be safe for your cat.

“But, why do we have to be so meticulous about water? When they’re in the wilderness, cats don’t look for filtered or bottled water, they take whatever they can get!”

That’s true, but your precious purrincess isn’t in the wilderness, is she? She’s in the living room, lounging on your sofa, and waiting for her bottle of Perrier, isn’t she?

And even if she was in the wilderness, she wouldn’t have a hard time finding a source of water that’s good enough for her standards. She’s a wild animal (regardless of how innocent she looks while she’s purring and sleeping next to your leg), and she possesses instincts that tell her which type of water’s safe.

That’s the very reason why cats prefer moving water – they can sense the chemicals and contaminants, and they choose to look for the source of water they deem the cleanest and the freshest. The water that doesn’t move seems more likely to contain bacteria, parasites, and other pesky passengers.

What to keep an eye out for when letting your cat drink tap water?

Cats can drink tap water. But, that’s not to say that you can let her drink her little heart out while you’re minding your business. You need to make sure the tap water you’re letting your cat drink doesn’t contain chemicals and contaminants that can cause harm to her health.

Your cat’s digestive system seems pretty simple, but it’s much different from yours. She doesn’t possess the enzymes necessary to break down and process A LOT OF the things that you eat and drink on a regular.

While the tap water that you drink shouldn’t be unsafe for your cat, you’re better off consulting with a professional. But before you head off to a different page to look for professionals, take a look at some of the most common chemicals and contaminants to keep an eye out for.

1. Flouride

“Cats can drink tap water, but they can’t have fluoride? What?” That’s the thing with cats – you can never be too cautious when you’re considering their safety. Fluoride that’s typically found within tap water can’t cause harm to your cat unless she consumes A LOT of water at once.

Fluoride’s a mineral that’s added to tap water to prevent tooth decay – which sounds great for your feline friend (she could use more of those tooth brushing activities). And worry not, because fluoride shouldn’t be detrimental to your or your feline’s health.

We say shouldn’t because fluoride CAN be problematic when consumed excessively. But, your cat isn’t likely to drink the amount of water necessary for the fluoride to cause harm. She’s more likely to experience fluoride poisoning from other sources – toothpaste, mouthwash, and even certain foods.

Consult with your vet and keep an eye out for the most common symptoms of fluoride poisoning. Drooling, watery eyes, runny nose, weakness, depression, stiffness, restlessness, loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, and even convulsions are the ones to take notice of.

2. Chlorine

“Wait, cats can drink tap water but they can’t have chlorine? Can they even swim in the pool?!” Hold your horses, your little munchkin shouldn’t experience anything out of the ordinary from a little bit of chlorine water. But… There’s always a but somewhere in there.

Chlorine’s a chemical that’s typically added to water to kill parasites and bacteria. That sounds great for your don’t-let-the-bugs-bite-me cat. But, that also makes you wonder whether this chemical can harm your cat’s digestive system.

Chlorine can actually cause a tummy ache or even send her running to her litterbox. But, only when we’re talking about higher levels of chlorine. Tap water doesn’t typically contain the amount of chlorine necessary to break her out into hives and rashes. That’s something to keep you on your toes, though.

But, we can’t forget about the fact that cats don’t even like chlorine! This chemical can make your cat retch and gag the moment that she catches a whiff. It can happen while she’s running around the pool or cooling off in the sink. Consult with your vet before you make her go through such an ordeal.

3. Other minerals (calcium, magnesium, and iron)

Tap water can contain A BUNCH of things – you can never know what you’re getting yourself and your feline friend into. Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron are (to a great degree) found within hard tap water (more on that a bit later in the article).

Calcium, magnesium, and iron are essential minerals that can bring a bunch of benefits to your cat’s table. Tap water that contains these minerals shouldn’t cause harm to your cat – as long as she doesn’t drink an entire pint. Excessive amounts of either of these minerals can cause health problems.

Calcium and magnesium can cause urinary diseases (for instance, the formation of crystals in your cat’s bladder), and iron can cause digestive problems, loss of appetite, and low blood pressure. Remember – there’s nothing wrong with minerals as long as she doesn’t overconsume them.

4. Lead

“Cats can drink tap water, but you’re telling me that there could be lead somewhere in there?” Now we’re marching into the territory of things that could POSSIBLY go wrong when you’re letting your cat drink tap water.

While fluoride, chlorine, and other minerals can be pretty much everywhere, lead’s not that popular.

So, how exactly does lead end up in your tap water? Some homes have lead pipes that connect to the main source of water. These pipes can corrode over time (especially when they’re not taken care of) and cause lead particles to end up in your tap water.

Lead can actually cause harm to humans, cats, and dogs when they’re exposed to levels that are high enough. Lead particles from your corroded pipes shouldn’t cause that much harm. But, they can accumulate over time and lead to health problems.

So, you might want to pay closer attention to your little munchkin while she’s munchin’ on that tap water.

5. Ammonia

“Wait, what?! There’s ammonia in tap water that my cat can supposedly drink?!” Ammonia’s pretty much everywhere you look – it’s particularly prevalent in areas that use fertilizers, and chemicals, and deal with animal waste. And, low levels of ammonia can find their way into your tap water.

Such low levels don’t seem to be a problem, at least not according to World Health Organization (WHO). Your tap water would need to be contaminated with higher levels of ammonia to cause any lasting damage. The same thing goes for your four-legged friend.

Don’t even get me started on the fact that cats HATE the scent of ammonia, and they can sense that from miles away. Don’t worry, your furry friend isn’t that likely to drink the water that’s been contaminated with higher levels of this chemical.

6. The difference between hard and soft water

Here’s the thing – most of the minerals we’ve mentioned reside within hard water. “What the heck is hard water?” Bear with me because water CAN actually be hard. Soft, slightly hard, moderately hard, hard, very hard, and extremely hard, to be particular.

The easiest definite of what we’re talking about would be this – the hardness of the water indicates the levels of minerals that water possesses. Extremely hard water possesses the highest amount of minerals, while soft water possesses the least amount.

A water softener actually removes the hard minerals from your tap water and replaces them with sodium ions. This makes the water more or less salty depending on the hardness. And, if your tap isn’t suitable for your cat (for whatever reason) you can consider trying out a different alternative such as water softeners.

Why does your cat like drinking tap water?

What have we learned so far? Cats can drink tap water. But, tap water may or may not contain chemicals and compounds that can harm your cat’s health. When you’re safe to drink your tap water, you can also share some with your cat that’s obsessed with drinking straight from the faucet.

Why does your cat like drinking tap water? There could actually be a couple of reasons for that – the first one being that she’s seen you drink tap water on more than one occasion. She’s curious to see what the hype’s about and she’s happy to drink whatever you’re drinking.

On the other hand, tap water can contain certain compounds that can change the flavor. She might be drawn to that type of water because she prefers the taste. She might be getting bored with the one you pour into her drinking bowl every single day.

And, let’s not forget about the fact that cats prefer moving water. There’s this thing where their ancestors used their senses to figure out which water was contaminated. The moving water was typically the one that was the cleanest and the freshest. What can we say – your cat REALLY loves her tap water!

How to stop your cat from drinking tap water?

Okay, the answer to the question “Can cats drink tap water” is Yes, but your tap water might be contaminated. You don’t want your little munchkin sipping on something that could send her to the emergency animal center.

So, how do you stop her from drinking tap water? She doesn’t even want to give you the time of the day!

Make sure she always has access to clean, fresh water. Cats (like humans) don’t like drinking out of something that’s been sitting in the sun for hours. And, trust me, they don’t like drinking something that’s been contaminated with dust particles, bacteria, and parasites.

Consider purchasing a water fountain for pets. That’s a great way for you to prove her with moving water without having to figure out a way to move closer to a stream or a river. Water fountains are also great at solving the problem we mentioned beforehand. They always provide your cat with clean, fresh water.

Get a water filter. What better way to stop your cat from drinking contaminated tap water than to purchase something that can clean it for you? Make sure you consult with a professional (and even conduct your own research) before you make any purchases, though.

Can cats drink bottled water?

Cats can drink bottled water! But, this one’s got a but attached because bottled water can contain compounds that are poisonous to cats. We’re mainly talking about the particles of plastic that can get inside your cat’s digestive system because of a poor-quality bottle.

These particles can actually cause glandular disruption and thyroid problems. They can also accumulate within your cat’s digestive system over time and cause serious health problems.

You might be thinking that you’re giving your cat the royal treatment with Perrier, Evian, and Fiji (not that their bottles contain particles of plastic). But, she’s better off sticking with filtered tap water.

Can cats drink electrolyte water?

Cats can drink electrolyte water – but not without a green light from your vet. Your cat doesn’t really need to drink electrolyte water unless she’s already dehydrated.

Cats can be really fussy about drinking water which means they’re pretty susceptible to becoming dehydrated. Your cat doesn’t need to drink electrolyte water while she’s going about her day, minding her own business – and even when she does, she shouldn’t experience adverse reactions.

But, the moment that she starts showing symptoms of dehydration she might need a quick pick-me-up in form of electrolyte water. Contact your vet and make sure you’re using the right type of electrolyte water. Your cat should be as good as new!

Can cats drink alkaline water?

Cats can drink alkaline water – but again, only when your vet gives you the thumbs up. Alkaline water can be bad for your cat under certain circumstances, so you’re better off following the doctor’s orders.

Avoid giving your cat alkaline water while she’s eating because this type of water can neutralize the acids in her belly that help the process of digestion. Other than that, avoid giving alkaline water to your cat when she’s nursing or when she’s using medication.

Can cats drink sparkling water?

Cats can drink sparkling water – kind of! Sparkling water doesn’t contain anything that could cause harm to your cat. But, that’s not to say that sparkling water’s the perfect source of hydration for your little munchkin.

Drinking sparkling water can cause bloating, nausea, and a bunch of digestive problems for cats with sensitive stomachs. Cats aren’t that great at managing their portions. Or stopping themselves when they feel they’re getting full. Or even choosing the right type of water that won’t send them to the vet’s office.

Your cat can take a little bit of sparkling water. But, keep a close eye on her so she doesn’t scoff down the entire glass.

Can cats drink ice water?

Cats can drink ice water – and there are no buts here! Your feisty feline’s more likely to drink water with a couple of ice cubes. She probably doesn’t like the taste of room-temperature water (she sure likes her water clean, fresh, and moving). And, she’s more than likely to enjoy playing with ice cubes.

This type of water can even encourage her to drink more. She can keep her hydration levels higher than ever and keep herself happy and healthy. And, who doesn’t like playing with their food (or drink, in this case)?!

Can cats drink flavored water?

Cats can’t drink flavored water – and we’re ending on a negative note! Flavored water’s beaming with sugar, sweeteners, and preservatives that can cause harm to your cat. Not to mention the fact that flavored water can be flavored with fruits that aren’t safe for felines (cherries, maybe?).

But, you can always bring back that smile on your cat’s face with homemade flavored water. Blueberries, strawberries, peaches, and even bananas can make for a mouth-watering mocktail for you and your feline friend. What’s stopping you?!

And just like that, you wake up out of your dream with your furry friend demanding a lick of your not-so-tropical treat. “No, but seriously, can cats have coconut milk?” You can’t help but giggle at the fact you’ve been awakened from your tropical dream because she’s gotten hangry in the meantime.

Now you’re faced with a pretty serious dilemma. You can’t give her a lick without consulting with your vet. Have you forgotten about the time when she scoffed down the entire mug of warm milk you’ve been meaning to have with your Oreos?

“Argh, that diarrhea was NASTY, and we’re not doing that again!” Sure, nobody’s milking coconuts. But, you’re not taking your chances simply because coconut milk isn’t REAL milk. You’re not taking your chances simply because your mischievous monster’s threatening you with scratches and bites.

Time to get down to business – can your cat suffer through another diarrhea episode on the off chance that you give her a little bit of coconut milk? Our friends over at the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) seem to think that way.

Coconuts aren’t the worst things your cat can munch on, but they don’t recommend letting her drink coconut milk. “Why?! How?!” Bear with me and read everything you need to know to keep your four-legged friend safe (and away from this tasty, but oh-so-risky treat).

What’s the deal with cats and coconuts?

Coconut, the queen (or the king) of tropical desserts and drinks, happens to be a fruit, a seed, and a nut. Coconuts grow on tropical trees (duh!). And when you open them, you get to the coconut water and coconut meat. How many times can we say coconut before you click out of the article?!

So, where the heck does coconut milk come from? Humans don’t milk coconuts (to everyone’s demise). But, they do make coconut milk out of matured coconut flesh and some water. They use the same technique to make other types of milk that don’t come from an animal (they only milk the moos and the maas of the world).

Cats and coconuts don’t have much in common, but that’s not to say that they can’t enjoy each other’s company. Coconuts aren’t poisonous to our furry friends (can we get a “yaaay!”) and munching on some coconut flesh here and there won’t send your furry baby to the emergency animal center.

But, coconuts aren’t necessarily a natural part of your cat’s diet. Actually, cats are carnivores. They require a bunch of meat, animal protein, and animal nutrients in their diets to survive and thrive. They don’t need fruits, veggies, and nuts the same way you do.

And, they don’t even possess the enzymes necessary for their digestive systems to break down and process most foods you eat regularly. You don’t see wild cats chasing after coconuts when they’re looking for an afternoon snack, do you?

What makes you think your not-so-wild cat would rather nibble on coconut flesh than on a paw-licking, mouth-watering T-bone steak? But, she might be set on her intentions to devour everything your lips have ever touched, even when we’re talking about a mere coconut morsel. So, can cats eat coconut milk?

Can cats have coconut milk?

“Argh, I remember what happened last time she sipped some milk! She’s not doing that EVER. AGAIN. At least not under my watch!”

Here’s the thing – it’s pretty weird that cats can’t drink regular moo milk. We’ve seen both Tom AND Jerry drinking milk straight out of the bow and we’re pretty sure they weren’t drinking almond milk or oat milk. We’ve been fooled into thinking cats can drink milk?

Actually, that’s not far from the truth because most cats are lactose intolerant. When they’re kittens, they feed off of their mother’s milk. When they’re grown up, they no longer need the milk. Therefore, their digestive systems lose the enzymes necessary to break down the lactose that’s typically found in milk.

On the other hand, coconut milk doesn’t contain lactose which would mean it’s pretty safe for feline consumption. Your feline could have a lick or two when she’s being fussy about her regular cat food. But… There’s always a but somewhere in there.

Coconut milk contains coconut (which is pretty safe) and sugar (which isn’t). Feeding coconut milk to your feline shouldn’t become a regular thing and here’s everything you need to know to make up your mind (before you order a batch of coconuts from Florida).

1. Coconut

Humans like you and me adore putting coconut into everything – drinks, desserts, and sweet and savory meals (coconut curry screams “YUM!”). And, what’s even more important, we love putting coconut into everything because it’s packed with nutrients that can benefit our health.

Coconuts are beaming with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, and healthy fats. We’re talking about vitamin B, manganese, copper, and iron. These can boost our immune system, maintain the health of our nervous system, and ensure the proper function of our digestive system.

Coconuts have every system of ours covered, AND they’re pretty stinkin’ cute (pun absolutely intended) when added to body butter and hydrating masks. But, (and you could probably sense this but coming) coconuts don’t do much for our furry friends.

Actually, our friends over at the ASPCA don’t recommend feeding coconut to your four-legged friend for two reasons. Firstly, coconuts aren’t a natural part of your cat’s diet which means they don’t bring that much to the table in terms of nutritional and health benefits.

Secondly, coconuts can cause digestive problems to your cat when consumed excessively or over a longer period of time. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea don’t make not being able to say “No” to your cat that appealing, do they? Coconuts are out ruled and outnumbered, but what about sugar?

2. Sugar

You might have guessed this one yourself, but sugar isn’t the best thing your feline friend can munch on. Don’t get me wrong, sugar isn’t something that’s going to send her running to her litterbox in the middle of the night. But, nibbling on sugar EVERY. SINGLE. DAY could.

Cats can’t even taste sweet things so they aren’t necessarily missing out on anything. Sugar isn’t a natural part of their diet which means their digestive systems aren’t equipped to deal with it. Sugar can be pretty tough on your cat’s stomach and it’s best avoided at all times.

Here comes the catch – coconut milk can but doesn’t have to contain sugar. Commercially available coconut milk contains a bunch of ingredients that make up for the fact that you (or your cat) aren’t drinking real milk. Sugar’s on top of the list of these ingredients with 3,3 grams per serving size.

Homemade coconut milk doesn’t have to contain anything other than coconut flesh and some water. Now, that’s the type of milk your furry friend can get behind (although not every day and not too much). But, when you’re looking to spice things up a bit you can definitely make some homemade coconut milk.

3. Preservatives

And don’t even get me started on preservatives! Cats can have coconut milk, but they absolutely can’t have the preservatives that come with most commercially available coconut milk. Sure, sure, we get it – they put the preservatives in there to make the milk last longer.

But, these preservatives can cause a bunch of digestive problems to your four-legged friend. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are only some of the things you can expect when she decides to go ham on your overpriced carton of milk you JUST got from Trader Joe’s.

Can things get any worse? They sure can, having in mind that SOME preservatives can even be poisonous to cats. Trust me, your cat can have a little bit of hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), but she can’t have any sodium benzoate (E211).

Nope, none of these are taken out of the Harry Potter movies. And nope, none of them belong in Mrs. McFluffer’s bowl. Coconut milk might not seem like something that could cause health problems to your fluffy munching. But, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

What’s to expect when your cat has coconut milk?

You can’t wrap your head around this “can cats have coconut milk” debate and you’re wondering what to expect when your cat has a sip of coconut milk? Worry not; you’re not the only pet parent with these pressing questions. Cats seem to LOVE sipping on milk regardless of your pleas.

You don’t have much to worry about because a little bit of coconut milk shouldn’t send your cat to the emergency animal center. Coconut milk doesn’t contain ingredients that are deemed “poisonous” or “toxic” for the most part.

But, but, but… Your curious creature doesn’t really know when to stop, does she? She’s probably gone overboard on something she shouldn’t have, on more than one occasion. And she’s probably gotten into trouble because she’s eaten too much of something she shouldn’t have.

So, here’s what to expect when your four-legged friend decides to ignore that little voice inside her head that’s telling her “Mrs. McFluffer, please, you’re gonna throw up!”

1. Digestive problems

“Too much of anything can make you sick…”. Boy does that sound like the biggest told-you-so moment when we’re talking about cats and coconut milk. Way too many pet parents think they can feed coconut milk to their cats and kittens because it’s “better than regular milk.”

True, coconut milk doesn’t contain lactose. (Which is typically responsible for sending your feline friend to her litterbox in the middle of the night.) But, coconut milk can’t be the way to prevent this situation from happening because it’s just as likely to cause digestive problems.

Cats don’t have the enzymes necessary to break down and process coconut milk because this tasty treat wasn’t supposed to be a part of their diet. So, their digestive systems have a pretty tough time whenever they take one too many sips.

Stomachache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even constipation are only some of the repercussions she might be at risk of experiencing. So, hide your coconut products out of the reach of her paws and hope she doesn’t turn on her wild cat instinct to try to find them.

2. Allergies

“Wait, what?! Cats can have coconut milk, but they can be allergic to it?” Listen, cats can have an allergic reaction to pretty much anything they can get their paws on. Cats are pretty similar to humans when it comes to allergies – some are VERY susceptible, and some aren’t.

That’s why it’s super important that you consult with your vet EVERY TIME you’re thinking of introducing something new to her diet. You can never go wrong with giving your vet a quick call and saying something along the lines of “Almonds, yes or no?” or “Coconut milk, kick it or drink it?”

That being said, you should check whether your cat’s allergic to coconut before letting her have a feast. Some of the most common symptoms to keep an eye out for are sneezing, wheezing, drooling, rashes and irritations of the skin, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Contact your vet the moment that you notice any of these symptoms. And don’t worry, she should be fine as soon as she gets coconut and coconut milk out of her system.

Can cats eat coconut yogurt?

Cats can have coconut milk, but that doesn’t mean they should. Cats can eat coconut yogurt, but that doesn’t mean they should. You’re starting to see a pattern, aren’t you?

Coconut yogurt seems pretty straightforward. You only need to ferment a little bit of coconut milk, add some water, some live cultures, and voilà. Coconut flesh doesn’t pose THAT much danger to your cat, so she should be able to get away with a lick or two.

But, that’s not to say that you should feed coconut yogurt to your cat. This tasty treat might be beaming with vitamins, minerals, and protein. But, it’s off-limits to your cat IN THE LONG RUN. Coconut yogurt doesn’t bring anything to your cat’s table (other than diarrhea and vomiting, of course).

Can cats drink coconut water?

“Hmm, coconut milk’s a MAYBE, coconut yogurt’s a KIND OF, but what about coconut water? Come on, cats can surely drink a little bit of coconut water?!” How do we say this without making your four-legged friend furious? Coconut water’s great, but cats can’t drink too much.

Coconut water contains A LOT of potassium. There’s nothing wrong with potassium and trust me, this isn’t the only time your cat’s eaten something that contains high levels of potassium. But, potassium means you have to be really mindful of the amount of coconut water you let your cat drink.

Consuming TOO MUCH potassium can cause something called hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia’s just a fancy way of saying your cat’s got a lot of potassium in her system. And it’s about to cause her harm.

Some of the most common symptoms of hyperkalemia are weakness, difficulty moving around and keeping her head up, and pretty severe arrhythmias. When left untreated, hyperkalemia can lead to a dangerous disorder called feline hypokalemic polymyopathy.

So, keep your feline away from that coconut water cocktail!

Can cats have coconut oil?

Ding, ding ding – cats can have coconut oil! They can have a nibble or two every now and then to boost their immune system, battle bone problems such as arthritis and osteoporosis, improve their overall oral health (bye, bye bad breath), and get some help for those pesky passengers (hairball relief coming through).

They can pretty much submerge themselves in coconut oil. It can help with skin rashes, skin irritations, and skin allergies. And don’t even get me started on maintaining the health of her skin and hair! Coconut milk might not be the best choice for your precious purrincess, but coconut oil takes the cake!