Grains & bread
Can cats eat oatmeal?
A small amount of plain cooked oats is safe for cats, but they don’t need carbohydrates.
Why Sugar, raisins or chocolate in flavoured oats
By Maya HartIf your cat ate some
- 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.
Signs to watch for
- Gas or loose stools after a large amount
How much, how often
A teaspoon.
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.
Can dogs eat oatmeal?Cats In moderation
A small amount of plain cooked oats is safe for cats, but they don’t need carbohydrates.
How much: A teaspoon.
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.
Safer treats your cat can have instead
Questions owners ask
Can cats eat oatmeal?
A small amount of plain cooked oats is safe for cats, but they don’t need carbohydrates.
How much oatmeal can a cat have?
A teaspoon.
What makes oatmeal risky for cats?
Sugar, raisins or chocolate in flavoured oats.
What are the signs to watch for in cats?
gas or loose stools after a large amount.
What should I do if my cat 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 dogs too?
Yes. Plain cooked oatmeal (porridge) is a good source of fibre for dogs and can suit dogs sensitive to wheat.
Sources
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
More foods for cats
Rice
Bread
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation
Popcorn
- Dogs
- In moderation
- Cats
- In moderation