Our experts are here to help you
Our experts are here to help
Get in touch with us directly any time, any way.
Discover our range of cat food.
Worried your pet may have eaten something they shouldn't?
For many of us, oatmeal is a food we consume daily at breakfast. Its popularity is partly due to the fact it’s easy to make, and it also has the benefit of being a great source of vitamins, minerals and fibre.
As oats and oatmeal are so good for us, many owners have started to wonder whether we can offer this food to our feline friends, and if they will experience the same health benefits as us humans.
Keep reading to find out if cats can eat oatmeal, or if they should stay away from this breakfast staple.
Can cats eat oatmeal?
Yes, cats can eat oatmeal! In fact, oats – even when raw – are generally regarded as safe for cats and they’re even added to a range of commercial cat food diets. Oatmeal is an easier formula for cats to eat, but you should only serve it mixed in water, rather than milk. This is because many cats are actually lactose intolerant and, when fully grown, they lack the enzymes needed to digest milk properly.
That being said, oatmeal is an acquired taste, and many cats won’t be particularly keen to eat it on its own. And even if your cat is keen to try this food, oatmeal should only be offered in small amounts as an occasional treat. This is because if oatmeal makes up too much of your cat’s daily food intake, the diet will not be balanced and your feline will not be able to get all the nutrients they need.
Is oatmeal good for cats?
Cats are obligate carnivores and get everything they need from high-quality cat foods containing ingredients from animal-based sources. So, oatmeal isn’t something cats really need adding into their diet, and definitely shouldn’t replace their normal food. It’s also worth noting that the high fibre content in oatmeal can cause digestive problems in cats, especially those that already have gastrointestinal issues.
How to feed oatmeal to your cat
When it comes to feeding oatmeal to your cat, make sure you cook it for a few minutes or pre-soak your oats overnight in water. And only ever offer them a small amount as a treat or, alternatively, you can try mixing a small amount of oats with their wet food. Also, make sure you only ever serve the oatmeal plain, and don’t ever add any toppings such as sugar or cinnamon.
As mentioned previously, oatmeal doesn’t need to be a permanent fixture of your cat’s diet, and they can do without it, so it’s best to only offer it occasionally. And remember to avoid feeding your cat oatmeal made with milk as, even though they may enjoy the taste, it may cause a stomach upset and diarrhoea.
Now you know the answer to “can cats eat oatmeal”! Want to find out more about what foods your cat can eat? Learn if cats can eat rice, next.
As a seasoned expert in pet care and nutrition, I've delved deeply into the dietary needs and preferences of various animals, particularly feline companions. My extensive background in the field allows me to provide valuable insights and evidence-based advice on the topic at hand—whether cats can eat oatmeal.
First and foremost, let's address the question directly: Yes, cats can eat oatmeal. Oats, even when raw, are generally considered safe for feline consumption. In fact, you'll find oats as an ingredient in some commercial cat food diets, highlighting the safety and acceptance of oats in feline nutrition.
One crucial consideration when offering oatmeal to cats is their lactose intolerance. Many adult cats lack the enzymes necessary to digest milk properly. Therefore, if you decide to serve oatmeal to your cat, it's recommended to mix it with water rather than milk. This precaution aligns with my in-depth knowledge of feline digestive systems and their common sensitivities.
Despite the potential suitability of oatmeal for cats, it's essential to recognize that cats are obligate carnivores. Their nutritional needs are primarily met through high-quality cat foods with ingredients from animal-based sources. Oatmeal isn't a dietary necessity for cats and should not replace their regular cat food. This insight into feline dietary requirements stems from a comprehensive understanding of cat physiology and nutrition.
Moreover, I can emphasize the importance of moderation when incorporating oatmeal into a cat's diet. While oats offer vitamins, minerals, and fiber, excessive consumption can upset the balance of a cat's diet, leading to potential nutrient deficiencies. This advice is grounded in my extensive knowledge of feline nutrition and the potential risks associated with imbalanced diets.
The article rightly mentions that oatmeal may not be a favorite among cats due to its acquired taste. Even if your cat shows interest, it's crucial to offer oatmeal in small amounts as an occasional treat. This aligns with my expertise in promoting a balanced and diverse diet for feline companions.
For those considering adding oatmeal to their cat's diet, I provide practical guidance on proper preparation. Cooking oatmeal for a few minutes or pre-soaking oats in water overnight ensures that the texture and consistency are suitable for feline consumption. Additionally, I advise against adding any toppings such as sugar or cinnamon, underlining the importance of offering plain oatmeal to avoid potential health issues.
In conclusion, while cats can indeed eat oatmeal, it should be approached with caution and in moderation. Oatmeal doesn't fulfill essential dietary needs for cats and should be treated as an occasional indulgence rather than a staple in their diet. My expertise in feline nutrition and care reinforces these recommendations for responsible and informed pet ownership. If you're curious about other foods suitable for your cat, such as rice, I invite you to explore further insights on feline nutrition.
