Rice is one of the most accessible foods to get and store at home. It’s easy to prepare, can be found anywhere, and is certainly filling. Rice pairs almost perfectly with anything, but when it comes to our cats, there are some concerns. So, can cats eat rice?
Essentially, cats can eat rice. But it’s not that simple. Cats don't get any significant nutritional value from rice compared to their normal diets.
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their digestive systems are optimized for processing meat. While they can digest some plant-based foods, these should not make up the bulk of their diet since they can hardly process the nutrients.
Rice can be used as a treat or meal topper, but not part of the main diet.
Is Rice Good for Cats?
Rice for cats is only good for them when given as a treat. The texture provides a good medium for cats to enjoy their meals even more. Here are the main benefits cats can get:
Carbohydrates
Rice is a source of carbohydrates in the form of starch. But while rice provides a good amount of carbs, cats don’t need a whole lot of it in their diets.
Carbohydrates from rice can be useful in certain situations, such as when a cat needs a quick energy boost or is recovering from an illness that has left them at low energy levels.
Fiber
Rice, especially brown and wild rice, contains dietary fiber that can help with digestion. A small amount of fiber can aid in bowel movements and prevent constipation in cats. Fiber can also help cats regulate their internal blood sugar level and support a healthy gut microbiome.
Protein
While rice does not contain a huge amount of protein, it does have a small amount that can still be utilized. Protein is the main nutrient cats need. They use these for growth, development, and energy.
Vitamins
Rice for cats also provides vitamins, even if it’s just in very small amounts.
Vitamin B1. Vitamin B1 or thiamine helps in energy metabolism by helping convert carbohydrates into usable energy. It also supports proper nerve function and functions of the heart, kidney, and liver.
Vitamin B3. Niacin is a good component that aids in keeping your cat’s skin and fur healthy. It also treats skin inflammation. The vitamin supports digestive and nervous system functions while helping to metabolize proteins, glucose, and fat.
Vitamin B6. Pyridoxine plays a role in metabolizing proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. It also helps produce neurotransmitters and is essential for immune function. Plus, vitamin B6 helps with red blood cell production.
Minerals
Just like vitamins, cats can only get so many minerals from eating rice. While it’s healthy, don’t expect a huge health boost.
Selenium. Selenium serves a specific purpose in helping the body protect itself from free radicals and in the production of DNA. This mineral also helps in thyroid function and helps cats keep a clean and healthy coat.
Phosphorus. Phosphorus is an essential mineral that helps support bone health and teeth development. It’s also a big help in maintaining cell and tissue health, energy production, and metabolic regulation.
Manganese. Manganese holds a special role in bone formation, the synthesis of connective tissues, and wound healing. It is also involved in the synthesis of certain enzymes and antioxidants.
Is It Okay to Put Rice in Cat Food?
Yes, it is okay to put rice in cat food. Just make sure this is cooked and free from unnecessary additives and seasonings. Plus, make sure that you only give a small amount of rice for your cat. Never replace your cat’s diet entirely with rice.
What Types of Rice Can Cats Eat?
Now that we've got the benefits covered, let's talk about the types of rice your cat can eat safely.
White Rice
White rice is the most common type of rice and is safe for cats to consume. It is fairly easy to digest compared to other types of rice, and it goes well with your cat’s main protein source.
The bland nature of white rice makes it ideal for mixing with other foods, particularly when you need to give your cat something easy on their digestive system.
Our vets may recommend rice in your cat’s diet to help harden its stool when they have diarrhea. It primarily comprises carbohydrates and fiber but lacks the nutrients of more complex rice varieties.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is another option, and it proves to be much more nutritious than white rice. It retains lots of crucial nutrients due to a much less processed finish. These include vitamins and minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, selenium, and B vitamins.
However, brown rice has a higher amount of fiber, which is hard for cats to digest and process. As a result, this can cause digestive issues.
If you really want to offer up some brown rice, it's best to start with small amounts to avoid stomach problems.
When Is Rice Bad for Cats?
While rice can be safe for cats in small amounts, there are still potential risks that should be taken note of. Rice is not exactly the type of food your cats should eat as meals.
Overeating and Obesity
Too much of anything is bad for cats, rice included. Rice is dense in calories and full of carbohydrates. When cats eat too much of this, they can easily gain weight and become obese.
Diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease are only some of the many problems obese cats face. It’s essential to balance the calorie intake from rice with your cat’s overall dietary needs to prevent any unnecessary problems from weight gain.
Nutritional Imbalance
Relying on rice too heavily can lead to a nutritional imbalance. Cats require a specific diet that mostly consists of protein from meat products. If your cat’s diet leans too much on rice, then they won’t have any more room for protein and other essential nutrients.
Allergies
Some cats may be allergic to rice or other grains. Cats with rice allergies can be observed to have signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, vomiting, or swelling. When this happens, seek expert advice.
Improper Preparation
While rice is a soft and easily digestible food source, improper preparation can harm your cat. Uncooked rice is tough and difficult for cats to digest. Additionally, rice with seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic, and onions is highly dangerous for them. This means fried rice is a big no.
Vet Tips: How to Prepare Rice for Cats
Preparing rice is a crucial part of giving rice to your cats. Make sure you follow the steps to ensure a safe treat for your cat. Here are the ways to prepare rice for cats:
Cook Thoroughly
Always cook the rice thoroughly. Raw or partially cooked rice can be difficult to digest, which causes digestive problems for your cats. Boil the rice in your rice cooker or stove until it is soft and easily mashable. The texture must be soft enough for cats to have an easy time eating.
Avoid Seasonings
Do not add any seasonings or flavorings to the rice. Ingredients like salt, garlic, and onions can be harmful to cats. Even minimal amounts of seasonings can cause serious health problems, including gastrointestinal irritation and anemia.
Mix with the Main Food
Rice should be mixed with their main food, such as a protein source like cooked chicken, fish, or turkey. Any kind of protein goes well with rice. The rice just creates a nice texture that makes cat love their food even more. By doing so, you can give your cat a fun little adventure for its meals.
Serve in Moderation
Rice should only be given as treats or as a small part of their meals. A mixture of cooked rice and their regular cat food is enough in itself. Avoid giving too much rice as this will interfere with their diet and make them feel bloated.
“Keep your cat’s nutrition in check and they’ll thank you.”
- Dr. Paulina Czerska
Final Thoughts
While cats can eat rice, they should only eat this in moderation and small amounts. Cats are obligate carnivores, and their diets require high amounts of protein rather than rice. We recommend focusing more on your cat’s main diet and treating rice like a rare treat.
Share
