FoodFact: Can Pet Dogs or Cats Eat Oats?

An Indian breakfast is never complete without Aloo Paratha, Upma, Idli, Dosa etc. These are every Indian’s all-time favorite breakfast preparations. But what if you are looking for a quick fix, yet a healthy and tasty way to start your day? We’ve got Oats! An Oatmeal is easy to cook, takes lesser time to digest and is equally delicious. Top it with some berries, sprinkle a few grated nuts or give it an Indian taste by adding spices and vegetables. We all know how healthy oats are! But, are they equally good for your dogs and cats?

Oatmeal is a big YES for your pets! However, if you have never fed them before, start with smaller quantities. It is a great source of carbohydrates if your pooch is allergic to wheat. And, even if they are not, this whole grain is still one of the best foods for them.
 

 
Oats have a long list of benefits and even longer history of consumption by animals, all over the world. Here’s the list:

• Oats are not genetically modified and are a natural source of carbohydrates. They are rarely contaminated with grains like wheat, barley, rye etc.
• They are low on calories and fats, and a good source of soluble fiber, keeping them feel full for longer hours.
• The dietary fiber can help regulate blood glucose levels and is great for your pooch’s digestive system. They will poop better and have a brighter smile throughout the day.
• Oats are full of linoleic acid, a type of Omega-6 fatty acid that helps keep their skin strong and healthy. So, if you want to keep their fur softer and shinier, Oats can be your solution.
• They are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals which help improve the overall health of your furry friend.

But make sure you feed them in moderation and not overdo the oats.
 

And here’s how the Oats originated

Oats were discovered thousands of years ago, in Egypt. Did you know that earlier they were considered a weed and used for medicinal purposes? Later, Oats started getting popular among the farmers because the crop was easy to grow and easier to harvest. It was enjoyed by hoomans and animals, both. Animals have been consuming this humble grain since farmers started cultivating them. Oats are 100% safe and can be given to your pets in moderation.
 
Oatmeal started getting more popular as a breakfast meal in the mid-1800’s and since then there has been no looking back. This grain has become everybody’s favorite breakfast meal all over the world.
 

How popular are Oats in India?

Oats started gaining popularity in India only after 2006 (Source).
 
They eat up a major chunk of the breakfast cereal market in the country. The need to stay healthy and get fit has grown tremendously in the last decade. From granola bars to healthy smoothies, the market is flooded with such wholesome and hearty options. Oats are extremely popular because they are either recommended by doctors or peers to live a healthier lifestyle. Indians never want to end up last in the race of health and fitness, so they don’t mind experimenting with their breakfast food either. With many flavors and savory options available as well, we are spoilt for choice. So, to summarize, they are a great quick fix, loaded with health, versatile and really good for your pets. Here’s Dawgiebowl giving you a green signal.
 

 

Exactly how good are Oats for your pet?

We all know that Oats are great for both you and your pet. But how exactly does it help your pup or cat?

Let’s take a look at some of the important benefits.
Oats are rich in:

• Protein. Interestingly, wild oats contain from 27-37% protein while cultivated varieties average about 17%. According to the World Health Organization, oat protein is equivalent in quality to soy protein. Although your pet still need their proteins to come predominantly from meat-based food sources.
• Soluble fiber – the fiber that helps keep cholesterol levels low.
• Levels of Iron, Manganese, Zinc, and B-vitamins (Pantothenic Acid, B5, and Folate, B9).

Oats are low in:

• Gluten – some is present, but not nearly as much as in wheat.
• Genetically Modified Organisms – so far, oats are not grown using GMO.

Oats are considered a nervine, a herbal compound that acts as a general nerve tonic; calming the nerves when necessary, stimulating their activity when needed. Oats are used for treating a variety of nervous disorders. We know how much your pet means to you and you want them to stay disease-free. So, here you go! Grab some oat meal or treats and keep your pooch healthy and happy.
 
Oats benefit several body organs and systems, including skin, the nervous system, stomach, spleen, lungs, and the urinary and reproductive systems. They also contain the antitumor compound β-Sitosterol.
 

What variations of Oats are acceptable for pets?

There are two types of these cholesterol-lowering whole grains: Rolled and Steel-cut.

1. Rolled Oats: To make rolled oats, the whole grains are steamed and pressed flat with steel rollers. The rolling process shortens the cooking time.
2. Steel-cut Oats: Also called as Irish oats, steel-cut oats are not rolled. They are instead sliced by steel blades into coarse grains. They are less processed than rolled oats.

The rolled oats are more popular and can be cooked as delicious treats for your pets.
 

 

How to serve the Oats to pets?

It’s best to give your pet dog or cat cooked oats. Don’t feed them raw oats as they are hard to chew and irritates the system. Also, don’t add milk to the meal as pets usually can’t tolerate dairy products.
 

Conclusion

Oats are highly recommended by our team for the overall well-being of your furry friend. Don’t feed them processed, packaged food, make sure their diet is balanced with meat-based proteins, vegetables, fruits and something like Oats to keep them full and flurry. Be a responsible parent and do your homework about oats and feed them in moderation. They are going to love you for this. More cuddles are guaranteed!

Why feed packaged food to your pets when we deliver healthy & balanced meals at your doorstep? Read more here.