Can Cats Eat Oats?

The short answer: Yes, but only in small amounts.

The long answer: Packed with protein and fat, oats are nutritious cereal grains that can be ingested by cats. They are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can promote well-being. Oats are turned into oatmeal and rolled oats, which can be eaten by cats as long as they are not served with milk. This is because cats are generally lactose intolerant, so giving them oats soaked in milk may result in vomiting, diarrhea, or upset stomach. Additionally, oats should only be given as a treat and not as a full meal. Oats are high in carbohydrates, which cats do not need to function.  

How to feed oats to your cat: Cook plain oats in boiling water for 25 to 30 minutes or until you achieve the desired texture. Do not mix it with chocolate or raisins, as these are toxic for your cat. When she tries oats for the first time, only feed her a tiny amount and observe her body’s reaction to it over the next few hours.

Here are three ideas for oat treats your cat will love:

1. Grind oats into oat flour so you can bake this crunchy treat.
2. Serve cooked plain oats to a cat with digestive or inflammatory issues. 
3. Make sardine porridge and serve it in time for breakfast.

In summary: Oats are great for your cat’s skin, coat, blood circulation, bone formation, and digestion. Because of its health benefits, a number of commercially sold cat food formulas now include oats. Before serving a cat cooked oats, consult with your veterinarian to confirm that she is allowed to eat it. Limit the serving size to 10% of your cat’s dietary requirements.

References: 

People Foods Cats Can Eat

Can Dogs and Cats Eat Oatmeal?

Wikipedia: Oat

Can Cats Eat Oatmeal? 5 Reasons Why It Is A Healthy and Guilt-Free Snack