Are cats lactose intolerant?

Most adult cats are. Kittens make the enzyme to digest their mother’s milk, but production drops after weaning, so by adulthood many cats can’t break down the lactose in cow’s milk. The result of a saucer of milk is often gas, loose stool or an upset stomach a few hours later. A few cats tolerate small amounts fine, but milk isn’t a necessary or healthy treat. If you want to offer something special, plain water or a lick of her own wet food is safer. Cat-specific lactose-free milks exist if you want the ritual.