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Tailwise

Grains & bread

Can dogs eat oatmeal?

Yes Safe

Plain cooked oatmeal (porridge) is a good source of fibre for dogs and can suit dogs sensitive to wheat.

How much, how often

A tablespoon or two, occasionally.

Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories

Serving it safely

  • Cooked in water, not milk
  • No sugar, syrup, raisins or chocolate
  • Let it cool first

Dogs and cats, side by side

Dogs Safe

Yes. Plain cooked oatmeal (porridge) is a good source of fibre for dogs and can suit dogs sensitive to wheat.

How much: A tablespoon or two, occasionally.

Cats In moderation

A small amount of plain cooked oats is safe for cats, but they don’t need carbohydrates.

How much: A teaspoon.

Can cats eat oatmeal?

The details

Instant flavoured porridge sachets often contain sugar, sweeteners, raisins or chocolate pieces. Use plain rolled oats cooked in water, and never serve them hot — dogs gulp.

Questions owners ask

Can dogs eat oatmeal?

Yes. Plain cooked oatmeal (porridge) is a good source of fibre for dogs and can suit dogs sensitive to wheat.

How much oatmeal can a dog have?

A tablespoon or two, occasionally.

What should I do if my dog ate oatmeal?

A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.

Is oatmeal safe for cats too?

A small amount of plain cooked oats is safe for cats, but they don’t need carbohydrates.

Sources

  1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: people foods to avoid
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: food hazards
  3. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines

Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts

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