Can Cats Eat Cereal? The Pros and Cons of Feeding Your Cat Oatmeal, Cornflakes, and Other Cereals
If you’re here it means my cat is not the only one who tries to take a slurp from my breakfast bowl. But can cats eat cereal? Is it safe for them?
Cats can eat cereal. However they should not. Cereals are mostly sugars considering they are made of starch and have artificial sweeteners added. Avoid giving diabetic cats any cereals.
(Some of this article’s findings are based on a Facebook community group on cats where cat purrents share experiences on their purrenting. Some screenshots and some images may be from the group as well)
Do Cat Needs Cereal?
Cats do not need cereals. They are carnivores and have evolved to highly depend on animal tissues for proper nutrition. However, eating human cereals once will not harm them.
Is Cereal Safe for Cats?
Cereal is generally safe for cats to eat. However, cats have problems properly digesting whole-grain cereals. They can also easily choke on smaller cereal particles.
Although the National Library Science of Medicine has found cats can digest carbohydrates, researchers have proven not all carbohydrates are created equal. This means that cats may have problems digesting some carbs.
It’s very crucial to know which carbs your catto is eating. Some pet food manufacturers will use grains as fillers to trick you into thinking you’re providing the proper nutrition for your kitto.
I’ve written a guide to some of the myths I’ve come across in my 20+ years as a cat purrent. Check out some of these 25 cat food marketing myths and how to avoid them.
The Nutritional Benefits of Whole Grain Cereal
Whole grain cereals can provide cats with fire, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. You need to be cautious about what kind of cereal you give them because some types are high in sugar and calories.
It also contains antioxidants and other nutrients that may promote heart health.
Some whole grain cereals are also high in protein, which can provide essential amino acids for cats.
| Nutrient | % of daily calories needs |
| Protein | 35.78% |
| Dietary fiber | 41.74% |
| Soluble fiber | 10.52% |
| Calcium | 0.12% |
| Iron | 0.1% |
| Magnesium | 0.36% |
| Phosphorus | 0.89% |
| Potassium | 1.25% |
| Sodium | 0.83% |
Are There Any Other Benefits of Feeding Cats Cereal?
There are no real benefits of feeding your cat with cereals. However, cereals can be helpful in keeping cats’ teeth clean. When cats eat dry food, they munch on small pieces that help keep their teeth clean and free from plaque buildup.
This helps reduce the chances of developing dental problems down the road.
Adding cereal to your cat’s diet can help promote healthy digestion since it’s high in fiber and protein (which are both important for gut health).
Finally, some cereals (especially those made with grains) provide essential nutrients such as thiamin and niacin which are important for energy production and proper nerve function.
How Much Cereal Should You Give Your Cat?
You should not give your cat more than about 1/2 cup of cereal. If your cat is overweight or has other health issues, you may need to adjust the amount accordingly.
Are There Any Risks Associated With Feeding Cats Cereal?
There are some risks associated with feeding cats cereal, including the potential for choking and malnutrition.
- Cats may choke on cereals if they’re not fed in a way that allows them to chew properly. Chewing helps cats digest food and avoid stomach problems.
- Cereal is high in sugar content, which can harm their health if consumed in large quantities over time.
- Cereals do not provide proper nutrition and your cat may experience malnutrition.
- Feeding your cat cereals can also cause her to gain weight quickly and increase her risk of developing obesity or other health problems down the line.
Is It Safe to Give Cats Leftover Milk From Your Cereal?
Avoid giving your cat leftover milk from your cereal bowl. When done frequently, your cat will gain excessive weight. Cats are also lactose intolerant and will experience stomach problems.
Cats being cats will try to take a slurp from your bowl. While I lick may not harm them, over time it will affect their health.
How Do You Know If Your Cat Likes Cereal?
Cats that prefer dry kibble over wet food will most likely like eating cereal. Just like kibble, cereals are crunchy and in some instances shaped and sized the same as cat kibble.
What Are the Best Cereals for Cats?
There isn’t any ‘best cereal’ for cats as they are not part of their natural diet. However, avoid giving your cat Lucky Charms, Sugar Pops, and Capt’ Crunch. They are loaded with sugar which is not good for cats.
How to Stop Cats From Eating Wheat, Oat, or Corn Cereal?
The best way to stop cats from eating wheat and other cereals would be not to give them a taste in the first place. This way, they don’t develop a taste for cereals.
If your cat is already eating cereal, you can start by always locking away all cereal boxes. This will keep them from being tempted. Next, you need to provide other treats such as a slice of tuna or beef.
If you’re looking into other human foods that can act as cat treats, check out my post on human foods cats can eat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Cats Eat Dry Cereal?
Cats can eat dry cereal. It’s more like dry kibble for them. However, dry cereals should only be used as treats. A full bowl could upset their stomach and cause diarrhea or vomiting.
If they start to show any signs of discomfort (such as vomiting or diarrhea), stop giving them the food right away and take them to the veterinarian for further evaluation.
Can Cats Eat Cereal and Milk?
Cats can eat cereal and milk but only if they are lactose tolerant. Most cats are unable to digest lactose and may experience stomach problems. Watch out for diarrhea and flatulence.
Yes, cats can eat cereal and milk. In fact, they usually enjoy them quite a bit!
Cereal is a good source of protein and calcium, which are important for your cat’s health. And milk provides them with the nutrients they need to grow and develop properly.
However, you should always consult your veterinarian before giving your cat any food or drink that contains caffeine or alcohol.
Can Cats Eat Chocolate Cereal?
Cats should not have chocolate cereal. The choco puffs and rice are made from processed cocoa which is toxic to cats. The caramel and added sweeteners are also harmful to your cat’s health.
Can Cats Eat Flaxseed Cereal?
Cats can eat flaxseed cereals. However, the high levels of fiber present in flaxseed can cause problems if ingested in large amounts by cats. Too much fiber can lead to constipation or other digestive issues.
According to the VCA animal hospitals, cats have problems effectively digesting and absorbing flaxseeds.
Can Cats Eat Cereal Bars?
Cats should not eat cereal bars. The high starch puts a strain on the cat’s pancreas when eaten frequently. The added sugars are also problematic for cats.
Can Cats Eat Rice Cereal?
Cats can eat rice cereal. However, it’s important to note that it is not a complete diet for cats and should only be used as a supplemental food source. Cats should also get their protein from other sources such as meat or fish.
Can Cats Eat Apple Jacks Cereal?
Cats can eat Apple Jacks cereal. However, they should not. Even though the cereal is low fat, it is loaded with sugar and is unhealthy for cats. A little Apple Jacks won’t harm your cat but don’t make it a habit.
Is Honeycomb Cereal Safe for Cats?
Cats can eat honeycomb cereal occasionally as a treat. However, it could lead to weight problems and other health issues if consumed excessively since it is high in sugar and calories.
Cats’ digestive systems have also not adapted to properly digesting honey.
Can Cats Eat Cornflakes?
Cats should not eat cornflakes. Cats have difficulty digesting the breakfast cereal and may experience gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea.
Can I feed My Cat Cheerios?
You should not feed your cat Cheerios. The artificial flavoring and sweeteners used are difficult for cats to digest. Cheerios are also high-fat food and not good for cats.
Can Cats Drink Cereal Milk or Chocolate Cereal Milk?
Cats should not drink chocolate cereal milk or cereal milk made with cow’s milk. Chocolate contains a high amount of theobromine, which is a compound that can be harmful to cats.
Cereal milk made with cow’s milk is also not good for cats because it contains lactose, which is a sugar that cats cannot digest.
Can a Cat Eat Rice Krispies?
Cats should not eat Rice Krispies. The cereal is high in calories, sugar and fat. The high sodium and potassium in Rice Krispies can also lead to poisoning in cats.
Can Cats Eat Frosted Flakes?
Cats should not eat Frosted Flakes. Although the cereal is not toxic, it is loaded with sugar. Cats are unable to properly digest sugar and may end up with a bloated stomach or other gut issues.
Can Cats Eat Fruit Loops?
Cats should not eat Fruit Loops. Frequent eating may cause tooth decay from excess sugars. Cats are also not able to fully metabolize sugars. However, your cat will most likely be fine after eating Fruit Loops once.
Can Cats Eat Captain Crunch?
Cats should stay away from Captain Crunch. The breakfast cereal does not provide any proper nutrition as it is made for humans. Captain Crunch also has high sugar levels which are bad for cats.
Can Cats Have Fruity Pebbles?
Cats should not have fruity pebbles. Apart from the high sugar levels, the colorful cereal is loaded with artificial flavors. Fruity Pebbles also have a higher sodium content than what cats can comfortably break down.
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