Can cats eat rice?

Why

Cats are obligate carnivores and do not require grains in their diet, though plain 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, onions, or garlic.
• Limit portions to a teaspoon or two for an average adult cat.
• Offer only occasionally, not as a daily food source.
• Ensure the rice is cooled to room temperature before serving.

Watch out for

• Sweetened rice dishes like desserts or puddings
• Rice mixed with onions, garlic, or excessive salt
• Uncooked or undercooked rice which is hard to digest
• Rice cakes or snacks containing artificial sweeteners

Better choices