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Can Cats Eat Rice | Everything You Need to Know

Can Cats Eat Rice, Benefits, Risks, and Tips

Rice is a staple ingredient in many human meals, from pairing it with a flavorful curry to wrapping it in a burrito. It’s not only versatile but also a nutritious option for us. However, does the same hold true for our feline companions?

Can Cats Eat Rice? Many cat owners wonder if this staple human food is safe for their feline friends. While cats can eat rice in small quantities, it’s not a necessary part of their diet as obligate carnivores who thrive on animal protein. White rice is often easier for cats to digest compared to brown rice, which is higher in fiber but offers little nutritional benefit for cats. Rice can occasionally be used to help with minor digestive issues, but it should never replace commercial cat food designed to provide a complete balance of nutrients. Feeding your cat a large amount of rice can lead to an imbalance in their diet, as carbohydrates are not a key component of what a cat actually needs. Instead, focus on foods that deliver the health benefits your cat requires while keeping treats like rice safe and occasional.

A curious tabby cat sitting by a bowl of plain white rice on a wooden dining table, with a spoon and napkin nearby.

Cat cats eat rice?

Yes, cats can eat rice in small quantities. It is non-toxic, so a little mixed into their food won’t harm them, but it’s not a necessary addition to their diet. If your cat is already eating a complete and balanced cat food, adding rice won’t provide any extra nutritional benefit. In fact, offering too much rice could fill them up, preventing them from consuming the nutrients they truly need from their regular meals.

Is rice good for cats?

Can Cats Eat Rice? Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet is primarily designed for meat, not grains. Unlike humans, cats have no biological need for carbohydrates, and their digestive systems aren’t built to process grains effectively. Some commercial cat foods may include small amounts of rice as a filler, but these are carefully measured to ensure they don’t interfere with the essential animal protein cats need.


When it comes to the types of rice cats can eat, brown rice is generally considered more nutritionally beneficial than white rice due to its higher fiber content. It’s sometimes recommended by vets to help with digestive issues like Diarrhea or constipation. However, rather than using brown rice as a home remedy, it’s always better to consult your vet for advice tailored to your feline friend’s specific needs. Cats can eat white rice as well, but it lacks significant nutritional value. That said, giving a small quantity of rice alongside their regular cat food is unlikely to cause harm.


It’s important to remember that too much carbohydrate in a cat’s diet can lead to Obesity, which increases the risk of health issues like Diabetes. Feeding your cat a large amount of rice or other carb heavy foods can do more harm than good. Stick to a balanced diet designed to meet their Nutritional Needs, and use rice sparingly, if at all, to keep your feline friend safe and healthy.

A fluffy Persian cat staring at a steaming bowl of rice next to a dish of cat food, with a questioning look.

Does a cat need to eat rice?

No, a cat does not need to eat rice. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should primarily consist of animal protein to meet their nutritional needs. Rice, while non toxic, provides little to no nutritional benefit for cats and is not a necessary part of their diet. Some commercial cat foods include small amounts of rice as a filler, but these are carefully balanced with the essential nutrients cats require. While rice can occasionally help with digestive issues like diarrhea when given in small quantities, it should never replace a cat's regular, balanced cat food. Feeding rice too often or in large amounts can lead to an imbalance in their diet and may contribute to weight gain or other health issues.

How much rice can I give my cat a day?

When it comes to how much rice a cat can eat, it should only be given in very small amounts and not as a daily food. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should focus on animal protein rather than grains like rice. A tiny spoonful of plain, cooked white rice or brown rice is generally rice safe for most cats if used sparingly, such as to help with digestive issues like diarrhea. However, rice should not make up a significant part of their diet, as it lacks the essential nutrients they need. Avoid giving uncooked rice, as it can expand in the stomach and cause discomfort, and never let your kitty eat rice pudding or rice dishes containing onion, garlic, or other harmful ingredients, which can damage red blood cells and be bad for your cat. Instead of rice, prioritize complete cat food or a fish cat meal to ensure they get the nutrition they need. If you’re ever unsure, consult your vet before feeding rice to your feline friend.

A black-and-white photo of a cat nibbling at a small mound of rice placed on a colorful patterned plate.

How to feed rice to your cat

Since rice provides no nutritional benefit to cats, it’s best to avoid offering it altogether and stick to high quality cat food and treats specifically designed for feline health.


If you choose to give your cat rice, only offer a tiny amount, ensuring it’s thoroughly cooked and free from seasonings, spices, or sauces. Uncooked rice should never be given to cats, as it is hard to digest and contains lectin, a natural pesticide that can cause vomiting and diarrhea if consumed in large quantities. If your cat shows signs of bloating or pain for more than 24 hours after eating uncooked rice, contact your vet immediately.


Now you know the answer to ‘Can cats eat rice?’ For more nutritional tips for your feline friend, check out our complete guide on What Can Cats Eat?.

A group of cats sitting around a bowl of rice, each with different expressions of curiosity and interest.

When is rice bad for cats?

While most cats can safely eat small amounts of rice, there are important considerations for pet owners to keep in mind:


Some cats may have difficulty adjusting to new foods


If they are not accustomed to eating grains, they could experience vomiting or digestive discomfort. As obligate carnivores, cats have metabolisms and gastrointestinal (GI) systems specifically adapted to processing meat, which means rice may sometimes cause digestive upset.

Excessive rice consumption is harmful to cats 


Research has shown that diets containing 25% or more rice bran can lead to reduced taurine levels, causing a deficiency of this vital amino acid. Taurine, essential for a cat’s health, is only found in animal protein. Additionally, rice is high in fiber, and feeding it in large amounts can result in digestive issues, such as diarrhea or constipation.

Cats should avoid eating uncooked rice 


As it is hard to digest and can lead to abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, and an upset stomach. Additionally, uncooked rice contains a natural pesticide called lectin, which may cause vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. If your cat shows signs of bloating or appears to be in pain for more than 24 hours after consuming uncooked rice, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly.

If you choosing your cat rice, ensure it is free from additives

 

Ingredients like spices, salt, onions, and garlic, often used in rice dishes, can be toxic to cats. Onions and garlic contain harmful compounds that can damage a cat’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia. Additionally, garlic can cause gastroenteritis, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and irritation in the mouth.

The carbohydrates in rice can contribute to weight gain in cats

 

Potentially leading to obesity, overweight cats are at a higher risk of developing health problems such as diabetes.

If a kitten eats rice too frequently, it could lead to malnutrition 


Rice can make cats feel full, which may reduce their desire to eat the meat that provides the essential nutrients they need for proper growth and health.
An orange tabby cat sniffing a measuring cup filled with uncooked white rice, surrounded by kitchen utensils.

Safer rice alternatives for cats

If you’d like to share human foods with your cat, it’s important to consult your veterinarian to ensure the options you choose are safe and appropriate. Any food given should be plain and free from harmful additives like sugar, salt, spices, onions, or garlic, which can be toxic to cats.


Lean meats, such as plain chicken, beef, lamb, liver, and lean deli cuts, are generally safe, as are cooked eggs and fish like tuna or salmon. Some cats can also enjoy vegetables like carrots, pumpkin, broccoli, and squash in moderation, while small amounts of fruits like watermelon and blueberries can be a healthy treat.


If cats eat rice to help with digestive issues, it should only be in small, plain portions to avoid upsetting their balance of nutrients. Besides rice, pumpkin is another excellent source of fiber that can help treat diarrhea. For more severe cases, your vet may recommend dietary adjustments, probiotics, increased hydration, or medications like kaolin-pectin to support recovery. By ensuring your cats eat rice and other human foods cautiously and in moderation, you can keep them healthy and happy.

Facts on Cats Eating Rice

  • Cats Eating Rice is Generally Safe
    Plain, cooked rice is non-toxic, so cats eating rice in small amounts can be fine as an occasional treat.

  • Cats Eating Rice May Help with Digestion
    For mild digestive issues, such as diarrhea, cats eating rice can benefit from its ability to firm up stool and soothe an upset stomach.

  • Cats Eating Rice Won’t Get Nutritional Benefits
    Since cats are obligate carnivores, rice doesn’t provide essential nutrients. Cats eating rice should always be a rare occurrence and never a staple in their diet.

  • White Rice is Better for Cats Eating Rice
    Compared to brown rice, white rice is easier to digest, making it a safer option for cats eating rice as a treat.

  • Uncooked Rice is Dangerous for Cats Eating Rice
    Cats eating rice that hasn’t been cooked could face digestive issues, as uncooked rice is hard to digest and contains lectin, a compound that can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

  • Plain is Key for Cats Eating Rice
    If you offer rice, it must be free of harmful additives like spices, salt, onions, or garlic, which are toxic and dangerous for cats eating rice.
A Siamese cat lounging near a table set with a plate of rice and a side of vegetables, sunlight streaming through a window.

Takeaway points

Rice is Generally Safe for Cats in Moderation


Cats can safely eat plain, cooked rice as an occasional treat, provided it is served in small, controlled portions.

Rice Can Help with Digestive Issues


Thanks to its high fiber content, rice can sometimes aid in managing diarrhea and mild stomach upset in cats.

Rice Offers Little Nutritional Benefit


As obligate carnivores, cats derive their essential nutrients from meat, so rice is not a natural or beneficial addition to their diet.

Avoid Uncooked Rice


Uncooked rice is hard to digest and can cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, or more serious digestive issues in cats.

Rice Should Not Replace Regular Cat Food


While rice can be a helpful remedy for certain digestive issues, it should never replace nutritionally complete cat food designed to meet your cat’s dietary needs.

Observe Your Cat’s Response to Rice

 

Each cat reacts differently to new foods, so always observe your pet for any adverse reactions when introducing rice into their diet.

FAQ

Can cats eat Rice Pudding?

Can Cats Eat Rice Pudding? It’s best to avoid it, as rice pudding contains milk, sugar, and spices that are unsuitable for cats. Most cats are lactose intolerant, and the milk can cause digestive issues, while the sugar adds no nutritional benefit. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg may also be harmful. Stick to plain, cooked rice in small amounts if you want to share a safe treat with your cat.

Can cats eat Brown Rice?

Can cats eat brown rice? Yes, cats can eat brown rice in small amounts, but it’s not a necessary part of their diet. Brown rice is higher in fiber than white rice, which can sometimes help with digestive issues like diarrhea or constipation. However, as obligate carnivores, cats don’t require grains, and brown rice provides little nutritional benefit for them. If you decide to give your cat brown rice, ensure it is plain, thoroughly cooked, and offered in moderation alongside their regular, meat-based cat food.

Can cats eat Rice Cakes?

Can cats eat rice cakes? Cats can eat plain rice cakes in very small amounts, but they are not recommended as a treat. Rice cakes are low in nutritional value and may be difficult for cats to chew or digest due to their hard texture. Additionally, flavored rice cakes often contain ingredients like salt, spices, or artificial additives that are harmful to cats. As obligate carnivores, cats benefit more from meat-based treats rather than grain-based snacks like rice cakes. If you’re considering sharing rice cakes with your cat, it’s best to avoid them and stick to safer, feline-friendly options.

Can cats eat Rice Krispies?

Can cats eat Rice Krispies? While plain Rice Krispies are not toxic to cats, they are not recommended as a treat. Rice Krispies are high in carbohydrates and offer no nutritional value for cats, who require a protein-rich diet as obligate carnivores. Additionally, many Rice Krispies are sweetened or contain additives like sugar, salt, or artificial flavorings that are unsuitable for feline consumption. If your cat is curious, a tiny, plain piece may be safe, but it’s best to avoid feeding them Rice Krispies and stick to nutritionally appropriate treats.

Can cats eat rice everyday?

Can cats eat rice every day? No, cats should not eat rice every day. While plain, cooked rice is safe in small amounts, it does not provide the essential nutrients cats need as obligate carnivores. Feeding rice daily could lead to nutritional imbalances and reduce their appetite for the protein-rich diet they require. Instead, rice should only be an occasional treat or used in moderation to help with specific digestive issues.

Can cats eat microwaveable rice?

Can cats eat microwaveable rice? Cats can eat plain microwaveable rice in small amounts, but it’s not the best choice. Many microwaveable rice products contain added salt, oils, or seasonings that are harmful to cats. If you choose to share, ensure the rice is plain, fully cooked, and free from any additives. Even then, rice should only be given occasionally, as it offers no significant nutritional benefit for cats.

Can cats eat uncooked rice?

Can cats eat uncooked rice? No, cats should not eat uncooked rice. It is difficult for them to digest and can cause stomach discomfort, bloating, or gas. Additionally, uncooked rice contains lectin, a natural pesticide that can lead to vomiting and diarrhea if ingested. To keep your cat safe, always ensure rice is fully cooked before offering it in small amounts.

Kelly Rushton with her cat Eddie Stafford.

Kelly Rushton

Meet Kelly Rushton, a dedicated cat enthusiast and proud owner of Feline Fancy Ltd. With a heart as big as her household, Kelly is the loving mum to 10 charming Ragdoll cats. In her world, felines reign supreme, and she brings professionalism and warmth to everything she does. Through her blog, Kelly shares her wealth of knowledge and experiences, offering insights into cat care, behavior, and the joy of living alongside these majestic creatures.


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