Can cats eat oatmeal?

Updated 12/05/2023

The short answer is yes, cats can eat oatmeal! But before you start whipping up a bigger batch of your breakfast staple, it’s important to note that cats need a diet made up of mostly animal protein, so cats should only eat oatmeal as an occasional treat.

Is oatmeal poisonous to cats?

Oatmeal is not poisonous for cats when prepared correctly. When prepared correctly is key here. With so many pictures of cats drinking milk from a saucer on the internet, you’ll be surprised to find that most adult kitties are actually lactose intolerant. Be sure to cook your oatmeal so it’s easy on the digestive system, and mix it with water rather than milk to make it a safe treat for your kitty.

Is oatmeal good for cats?

Like most human foods, if your furry feline overloads on too much oatmeal, it will miss out on the essential nutrients it gets from other foods. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning that the majority of their diet should consist of animal proteins. They don’t technically need carbohydrates like oats in their diet, but it can be a healthy addition to your kitty's protein-rich diet. Oatmeal is actually fairly high in protein, fats and fiber, making it one of the better human foods for cats.

Can cats eat oatmeal with brown sugar? 

We love a sprinkling of brown sugar on our oatmeal but our furry felines don’t have such a sweet tooth, plus, they really don’t need it. Can cats eat oatmeal with cinnamon? Again, not recommended. Kitties should eat oatmeal without any sweeteners or additives, but if you’re looking for a way to spice it up, mix in an animal protein like sardines or tuna. Avoid oatmeal cookies, which are very calorific due to their high levels of butter and fats. Never add anything like raisins to your cat’s oatmeal, as they are potentially toxic to cats. Plain oatmeal cooked in water is best. 

Health benefits of eating oatmeal

According to studies undertaken by the National Library of Medicine, oatmeal has numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidants and is high in protein, fatty acids and calcium. The fats in oatmeal also contain linoleic acid and amino acids, which are good for a healthy skin and coat, and the high fiber content can also aid digestion. 

Sounds good right? Well, before switching up your cat’s diet, remember that they don’t technically need to eat oatmeal - they get all these nutrients from meat. Including a small amount of oatmeal in their diet occasionally won’t do any harm, but it's unlikely to do them much good. Besides, we think they'd much prefer a cat treat anyway!

Feeding your cat oatmeal

Take a look at the ingredients in your furry feline’s food, and you might be surprised to see oats there. While it is often mixed into commercial cat food, your furry feline may not be super enthusiastic about oatmeal on its own as they are often drawn to meaty and fishy flavors. If you do decide to introduce it into your kitty’s diet, it’s best to have a chat with the vet first. They will recommend that oatmeal should only be given as an occasional treat - a small spoonful once in a while or a little bit mixed in with their cat food is more than enough. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Lizzie

This article has been checked by veterinarian Lizzie Youens BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS. Lizzie graduated from the University of Bristol in 2011, and has been working in first opinion companion animal practice. She has worked in a variety of clinics across the UK, from large hospitals to small branch practices. She enjoys doing a mixture of medicine, surgery and emergency work. Lizzie currently works in a small rural practice where she enjoys working in a close-knit community. 

Other foods that are safe for cats

Cats are carnivores, so they need to eat meat in order to survive. Meat and fish should always be cooked, and veggies like pumpkin, carrots, and spinach can be enjoyed as an occasional treat. Check out our guide to what cats can and can’t eat to find out more.