Cats and milk

Question
Hi Diana, I was wondering if it is safe to give cats milk. I have a four year old cat, and every once and a while a give him about half a teaspoon of milk because he absolutely loves it, he goes crazy for milk! Someone once told me that giving cats milk can give them worms, and i was wondering if that was true. I always heard of people giving cats like a saucer of milk or something, and so i was really confused. If it is bad for them, is it not ok for me to give tim the occasional teaspoon? or is even that too much?
I greatly appreciate your help!

Answer
Milk giving cats worms is one of those old wivestales, however giving cats milk can give them diarrhea, as can worms.  Many cats can be lactose intolerant so that they do not digest the milk properly leading to diarrhea.  In small quantities and in cats that are not lactose intolerant it is just fine and often a welcomed treat.

Have a lovely day.