Can Dogs and Cats Drink Milk? Australian Guide
Watch and monitor
What it means for dogs and cats
πΆ Dogs
Caution β small amounts
Do not use cowβs milk as a routine drink for dogs. RSPCA Australia warns it can cause gastrointestinal upset; provide fresh water instead.
π± Cats
Caution β small amounts
Many cats do not tolerate lactose well, and milk can cause gastrointestinal problems. It is not needed as a treat; provide water and stop dairy if your cat becomes unwell.
Where Australian pets run into it
Milk is sometimes offered as a treat, especially to kittens or visiting pets. In Australia, fresh water and a suitable complete diet are the safer everyday choices.
What to do
Stop offering milk. Contact your local vet if vomiting, diarrhoea or other signs occur, or if your pet has a health condition.
Common questions
Can dogs drink milk as a treat?
Milk can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs, so use fresh water instead.
Why did my cat get diarrhoea after milk?
Many cats are lactose-intolerant; stop milk and call your vet if digestive signs appear.
Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets β ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- What should I feed my dog? β RSPCA Australia Knowledgebase
- Feeding Your Cat β Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
Content checked against these sources on 2026-10-10.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your local vet.