Can Cats Eat Oatmeal? Plain Oats, Flavored Packets and Cat Grass
A bowl of oatmeal is a comfort food for many people, and a cat sniffing at the spoon may seem to want some. Plain oats are a gentle food, and a little is not harmful, but cats are not built to eat grains in quantity, and oatmeal comes with some pitfalls.
What oatmeal contains
Cooked oatmeal is mostly carbohydrate, with fiber such as beta-glucan, some protein and small amounts of minerals and B vitamins. A cup of cooked oats has about 150 calories. Cats can digest cooked oats, but they are carnivores and do not need grains. Whole oats and steel-cut oats are higher in fiber than instant oats, which are more processed and cook into a softer paste.
Quick reference
| Form | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Plain cooked oatmeal made with water, a spoonful | Safe, occasional |
| Raw oats | Avoid, hard to digest |
| Oatmeal made with milk | Avoid, lactose |
| Flavored instant packets | Avoid, sugar and additives |
| Oatmeal with raisins | Avoid, raisins are toxic |
| Oatmeal with nuts or chocolate | Avoid |
| Oatmeal cookies and granola bars | Avoid |
| Oat grass | Safe and a better green option |
How to serve oatmeal
- Cook plain rolled or quick oats in water, with no salt, sugar, butter or flavoring.
- Let it cool to room temperature.
- Offer a teaspoon, or mix a little into wet food.
- Watch for loose stool or gas.
- Do not offer more than a spoonful or two once in a while.
Most cats show little interest in oatmeal. If your cat refuses, do not push it.
Instant packets and add-ins
Many people eat flavored instant oatmeal, and spilled packets are a risk. Common additions include:
- Raisins and dried fruit, which are toxic. See are grapes and raisins toxic to cats.
- Nuts, which are fatty and a choking hazard. See can cats eat nuts.
- Chocolate chips, which are toxic. See is chocolate toxic to cats.
- Sugar-free sweeteners, some of which contain xylitol. See is xylitol toxic to cats.
- Cinnamon and other spices, which can irritate in large amounts.
- Milk, which can cause diarrhea. See can cats drink milk.
Oatmeal for skin and baths
Colloidal oatmeal, which is finely ground and suspended in water, is used in some veterinary shampoos and baths to soothe itchy skin. This is a topical product, and eating oatmeal does not treat skin disease. If your cat is itchy, has hair loss or scabs, see a vet to find the cause. Our cat health guides explain more.
Oat grass instead
Many cats like to chew on greenery. Oat grass, grown from oat seeds in a pot, is a safe and inexpensive way to give them something to nibble. It may also satisfy the urge to eat houseplants, many of which are dangerous. See toxic houseplants for cats and cat-safe houseplants.
When to skip oatmeal
- Diabetic cats. Starch raises blood glucose.
- Overweight cats. Calories add up.
- Cats with grain sensitivities. Rare, but possible.
- Cats on prescription diets. Extras may interfere.
- Kittens. Use complete kitten food. See our kitten feeding schedule.
Signs of a problem
After eating oatmeal, watch for vomiting, diarrhea, gas or belly pain. Mild signs usually pass in a day. Call your vet if they persist, or if the oatmeal contained raisins, chocolate or xylitol. Our US vet directory can help you find a clinic, and the emergency warning signs guide lists red flags.
Myths about oatmeal and cats
"Oatmeal is a healthy breakfast for cats." A cat's breakfast should be a complete, meat-based food.
"Fiber is always good." Too much can cause gas and loose stool, and may interfere with nutrient absorption.
Better ideas
Plain cooked chicken is a better treat. For another gentle starch, see can cats eat rice. Use the free cat food and plant safety checker for other foods, and ask your veterinarian if you are unsure.
Oatmeal and gluten
Oats contain a protein related to gluten and are often processed alongside wheat. True gluten sensitivity is rare in cats. If your cat has chronic vomiting, diarrhea or itchy skin, ask your vet about an elimination diet instead of guessing at ingredients.
Storing oats safely
Keep oat containers sealed and out of reach. Spilled dry oats are not dangerous, but bags that are chewed open can attract pests, and opened packets of flavored oatmeal are a hazard.
Quick checklist
- Is the oatmeal plain and made with water?
- Is it cooled and a spoonful or less?
- Is there no sugar, raisin, nut, chocolate or xylitol?
If you cannot answer yes, skip it.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat oatmeal?
Yes, plain cooked oatmeal made with water in a small spoonful is generally safe.
Is oatmeal good for cats?
It provides fiber and some nutrients but little that a complete diet lacks, and cats do not need it.
Can cats eat oatmeal cookies?
No. They contain sugar, fat and sometimes raisins, chocolate or nuts.
Can oatmeal help a cat's skin?
Colloidal oatmeal baths are sometimes used for itchy skin under vet guidance, but eating oatmeal does not treat skin problems.
Sources and further reading
Pet food rules and nutrient standards come from regulators and professional bodies. Start here when you want the primary source.
- Cornell Feline Health CenterFeline health information from Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control CenterToxic plants and foods lists, plus a 24-hour helpline.
- Pet Poison Helpline24-hour poison advice staffed by veterinary toxicologists.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.
This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.