Can cats eat rice?

Why

Cats are obligate carnivores and do not require grains like rice in their diet, though plain cooked rice is not toxic. It can be useful for settling an upset stomach, but it should never replace their regular meat-based meals.

If you do feed it

• Serve only plain, fully cooked white rice with no salt, butter, garlic, onions, or spices.
• Limit portions to a teaspoon or two for an average adult cat, treating it as a rare snack rather than a meal.
• Ensure the rice is cooled to room temperature before serving to avoid burning their mouth.
• Do not feed rice to cats with diabetes or weight issues without veterinary approval.

Watch out for

• Sweetened rice dishes like rice pudding or desserts
• Rice mixed with toxic ingredients like garlic, onions, or excessive salt
• Uncooked or undercooked rice which is hard to digest
• Rice cakes or snacks containing chocolate, xylitol, or other harmful additives

Better choices