Can Cats Drink Oat Milk? A Complete, Vet-Informed Guide for Cat Owners 2026

Can Cats Drink Oat Milk?

Oat milk has exploded in popularity — it’s creamy, plant-based, and a favorite alternative to dairy for humans. Naturally, many cat owners wonder: Can cats drink oat milk safely?

The short answer is:
Yes, cats can drink a small amount of oat milk occasionally, but it isn’t recommended as a regular part of their diet.
It’s not toxic, but it also isn’t nutritionally useful for cats, who are obligate carnivores and need animal-based nutrients to thrive.

This guide breaks down everything: safety, benefits, risks, how much is okay, and whether oat milk is better or worse than cow’s milk, soy milk, almond milk, and coconut milk.

Is Oat Milk Safe for Cats?

Oat milk is not harmful or toxic to cats in small amounts. Unlike cow’s milk, oat milk contains no lactose, which means most cats will digest it better.

However, oat milk still contains:

• Carbohydrates
• Natural sugars
• Oils
• Additives (in many commercial brands)

Cats don’t need any of these.

Safe only in moderation

A teaspoon or two of unsweetened oat milk is unlikely to cause issues.
A cup? That can lead to stomach upset.

Do Cats Even Like Oat Milk?

Some cats LOVE oat milk because:

• It’s creamy
• It smells similar to dairy
• It has a mild taste

Others ignore it completely.

Cats cannot taste sweetness, so the attraction is usually due to the texture and smell — not the flavor itself.

Is Oat Milk Healthy for Cats?

Oat milk is marketed as healthy for humans, but cats do not benefit from it nutritionally.

What oat milk contains (for humans):

• Vitamins (B, D)
• Healthy fats
• Calcium (fortified versions)
• Beta-glucans (from oats)

What cats actually need:

• Protein
• Taurine
• Animal fats
• Amino acids
• Moisture from meat sources

These nutrients do not exist in meaningful amounts in oat milk.

So, while it isn’t harmful, it also doesn’t offer any nutritional advantages.

Potential Benefits of Oat Milk for Cats

Even though oat milk isn’t “healthy” for cats, it does come with a few minor benefits when used sparingly.

1. Easier on the stomach than cow’s milk

Cats are lactose-intolerant.
Oat milk contains no lactose, so it won’t cause the classic symptoms:

• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Cramping
• Vomiting

2. Hydration boost

Oat milk is mostly water.
If your cat refuses water, adding a teaspoon of oat milk occasionally can encourage extra fluid intake.

3. A special treat

Some owners use a splash of oat milk as:

• A bonding treat
• A way to make kibble more appealing
• A topper for picky cats

As long as it’s occasional, this is fine.

Risks of Giving Oat Milk to Cats

Even though oat milk is not toxic, it does come with risks — especially in large amounts or when using the wrong type.

1. High in carbs and calories

Cats are designed to process protein, not carbohydrates.
Oat milk, however, is mostly carbs.

Over time, too much oat milk may contribute to:

• Weight gain
• Obesity
• Diabetes (in predisposed cats)

2. Many brands contain additives

Store-bought oat milk often includes:

• Oils
• Salt
• Gums
• Preservatives
• Sweeteners
• Flavorings (vanilla, chocolate = dangerous)

These can irritate a cat’s digestive system.

3. Possible stomach upset

Too much oat milk can cause:

• Diarrhea
• Loose stool
• Gas
• Vomiting

4. Not suitable for kittens

Kittens need:

• Mother’s milk
• Kitten formula
• High-protein diet

Oat milk can interfere with proper nutrition.

5. Not suitable for cats with sensitive digestion

If your cat has IBD, pancreatitis, or chronic stomach issues, avoid oat milk entirely.

How Much Oat Milk Can Cats Drink?

Use this as a safe guideline:

Tiny Taste Portion (Safe for Most Cats)

• 1–2 teaspoons
• Once or twice a week, maximum

Never give:

• A full bowl
• Daily servings
• Flavored oat milk
• Sweetened oat milk
• Chocolate oat milk (toxic)

If you want to treat your cat, keep amounts extremely small.

How to Give Oat Milk to Cats Safely?

If you decide to offer oat milk, follow these simple rules:

1. Choose UNSWEETENED oat milk

Check the ingredients.
Avoid any product that contains:

• Sugar
• Flavors
• Preservatives
• Oils in high amounts

2. Serve only a teaspoon at a time

No free-pouring into bowls.

3. Use as a topper

Mix a small amount into:

• Dry kibble
• Wet food
• Prescription diets (if vet-approved)

4. Observe your cat

After giving oat milk, watch for:

• Soft stool
• Vomiting
• Gas
• Stomach discomfort

If anything appears off — stop immediately.

Is Oat Milk Better Than Cow’s Milk for Cats?

Absolutely.

Cow’s milk contains lactose, which most cats cannot digest.
Oat milk avoids this problem.

However…

Neither oat milk nor cow’s milk is necessary for a cat’s diet.

If you want the “best milk alternative,” here’s a comparison:

Oat milk is the least problematic — but still not necessary.

Signs Your Cat Should NOT Drink Oat Milk

Stop giving oat milk if you notice:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Gas
• Lethargy
• Increased thirst
• Refusing regular food

If symptoms persist, consult a vet.

Healthy Alternatives to Oat Milk for Cats

Better options include:

• Cat-safe broth (unsalted chicken broth)
• Tuna water (from tuna packed in water)
• Hydration supplements (vet-approved)
• Water mixed with wet food

These offer hydration without unnecessary carbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Can Cats Drink Oat Milk?

Yes — cats can drink a tiny amount of oat milk, but it should only be an occasional treat, not a dietary staple. Oat milk is non-toxic, easier to digest than cow’s milk, and safe in small quantities.

However, it offers no nutritional benefits and too much can upset your cat’s stomach or contribute to weight gain.

If your cat enjoys it, serve it carefully.
If they don’t — they’re not missing anything.