Oatmeal is one of the healthiest human foods which is currently gaining popularity globally in the form of breakfast cereals. Oats are generally popular because they’re nutritious, cheap, and you can mix them with various ingredients to make your own personal porridge. But does this mean you can create the perfect oatmeal for your cat? Can cats eat oatmeal? What are the benefits of giving your cat oatmeal? Are there any risks?
These are some of the questions that this article aims to answer for you.
So, before you give oatmeal to your cat, find out if cats can eat oatmeal and how to properly feed it to them.
Can Cats Eat Oatmeal?
Oatmeal is not only safe for your feline baby, but it can also turn this good, human food into a delicious, healthy cat treat. Note that oatmeal is best served cooked for a few minutes or soaked in water. Do not mix oats with milk. Most cats are lactose intolerant. It is best to avoid giving them milk altogether.
What are the Benefits of Cats Eating Oatmeal?
Oats help primarily in proper digestion. They contain Vitamin B, E, iron, selenium, fiber, antioxidants, manganese, and folic acid. The important minerals within oats are vital for strengthening the bones, teeth and nails. Further, zinc makes for healthy fur and skin, whereas manganese helps with bones and thyroid. Overall, all the minerals contribute to maintaining and improving feline health.
Note that, while these nutrients are particularly essential to feline health, they are always present in dry cat food and regular cat treats. Do not assume that you can simply replace their regular cat food with oatmeal just because it is nutritious.
| Cat insurance from From | Dog insurance from | Coverage | Contribution | Own risk | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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€14.05 | €17.77 | €3.000 — €6.000 | 20% | €30 — €50 per year |
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How Often Can Cats Eat Oats?
Oats are high in protein as well as carbohydrates. This means that the number of times that your cat eats oatmeal depends on their personal dietary needs. Keep in mind that for most cats, it is best to feed them food and snacks that are high in protein but low in carbohydrates.
How Much Oatmeal Can Cats Eat?
Do not forget that any human foods that you treat your feline baby with must always be limited to small snacks. While oatmeal can be a healthy choice for your feline friend every once in a while, you should never overdo it. If you plan on feeding them oatmeal, always keep the 10% rule in mind: all human food and treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
Final Thoughts
Oatmeal is very nutritious for your cat just as it is for you. It’s got plenty of nutrients that improve feline health and that are vital to your cat’s diet. However, do not mistake their nutritional value for something that can replace their regular dry food altogether. Oatmeal is first and foremost a human food, and it is best consumed by cats as a small, healthy treat.
Still looking for answers? Schedule an instant video consultation with our qualified veterinarians and get tailored advice from the comfort of your home – today.
