Can Cats Eat Rice? A Complete Guide for Cat Parents

Cats are known for being curious eaters, and if you’ve ever caught your feline friend sniffing around your plate of rice, you might’ve wondered - can cats eat rice safely?  The answer isn’t a simple yes or no.

While rice isn’t toxic to cats, it’s not something they necessarily need either. Let’s break down everything cat parents should know before serving rice to their whiskered friends!

Is Rice Safe for Cats?

Yes, rice is generally safe for cats when cooked properly and served in moderation. Most veterinarians agree that a small amount of plain, cooked rice can be harmless and sometimes even helpful, especially if your cat has an upset stomach.

However, rice doesn’t offer any essential nutrients that cats can’t get from their everyday diet. Since cats are obligate carnivores, their bodies are designed to flourish on animal protein rather than grains or carbs.

In short, rice can be a filler or a temporary tummy soother, but it shouldn’t replace your cat’s main meals. 

Perks of Feeding Rice to Cats

When given occasionally and in small portions, rice can have a few benefits for your cat:

• Helps with Digestion: Plain, boiled rice can help firm up stools in cats with mild diarrhoea. It acts as a binding agent, easing temporary stomach discomfort or irritation.

• Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs: Cats recovering from an illness or transitioning to new food may benefit from easily digestible rice mixed with small amounts of boiled chicken or fish.

• Provides Quick Energy: Rice contains carbohydrates that can provide a quick energy boost, though it shouldn’t be a long-term energy source for cats.

Cons of Feeding Rice to Cats

While rice isn’t toxic to cats, it does come with a few drawbacks that make it unsuitable as a typical part of their diet:

• Poor Protein Source: Cats are obligate carnivores; their bodies need meat-based protein for the required nutrients. Rice offers carbohydrates but almost no usable protein, which means it doesn’t meet their natural nutritional needs. Over time, this can cause muscle loss and weakness.

• Digestive Discomfort: Some cats have sensitive stomachs and may experience bloating, gas, or constipation after eating rice, especially if it’s undercooked or fed in large portions.

• Can Cause Weight Gain: Since rice is rich in carbohydrates, regular feeding can contribute to unnecessary weight gain, especially in indoor or less active cats.

How to Feed Rice to Cats Safely

If you’d like to let your cat try rice, here’s how to do it safely:

• Stick to plain, boiled white or brown rice - no oil, butter, or seasonings.

• Serve it soft and fully cooked so it’s easy to digest.

• Mix small portions with meat (like boiled chicken or fish) to balance the meal.

• Offer it occasionally, not as a daily staple.

• Watch for any signs of discomfort such as bloating, vomiting, or constipation.

Brown Rice vs White Rice: Which is Better for Cats?

Both white and brown rice are safe in moderation, but there’s a small difference:

• White rice is easy on your cat’s tummy because it doesn’t have the hard outer layers. It can help soothe their stomach when they’re feeling unwell or have mild digestion issues.
  

• Brown rice, on the other hand, retains more fibre and nutrients but can be harder for cats to digest. It may cause gas or bloating in some cats.

Can Kittens Eat Rice?

Kittens have very specific nutritional needs to support their growth, and rice doesn’t contribute much to that. While a little bit of serving won’t harm them, nonetheless, rice should never replace kitten food. Stick to balanced, protein-rich meals designed for their development.

How Often Can Cats Eat Rice?

Cats should only eat rice occasionally - once every few weeks at most, and in small portions (1 to 2 teaspoons, not more than that). It should never replace their regular meals or become a main food source.

If your cat is recovering from diarrhoea or digestive upset, rice can be used temporarily for one or two meals before returning to their usual diet.

When to Avoid Rice Altogether

Skip rice if your cat:

• Has diabetes or is overweight (due to carbs).

• Suffers from chronic digestive issues.

• Is allergic to grains (rare, but possible).

Always consult your vet before introducing new foods, especially if your cat has an existing health condition.

So, can cats eat rice? Yes - but only in moderation and under the right circumstances. It’s safe, mild, and can be a temporary fix for an upset stomach, but it doesn’t belong in your cat’s typical menu.

For daily nutrition, stick to high-protein, meat-based diets that meet their carnivorous needs. And if you ever want to give your feline something wholesome, hydrating, and delicious, explore healthy cat food options like Meowsi from Heads Up For Tails. 

From balanced meals to gentle treats, we have everything to keep your cat purring happily - all year round!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cats digest rice easily?

Yes, cats can digest well-cooked rice, especially white rice. However, because cats are obligate carnivores, their bodies don’t process carbohydrates as efficiently as proteins. So, rice should only be an occasional addition.

Is rice good for cats with diarrhoea?

Yes, small amounts of boiled white rice mixed with plain chicken can help firm up stools in cats with mild diarrhoea. However, if the issue lasts more than a day or two, consult a vet instead of relying solely on home remedies.

Can rice help a cat gain weight?

Not in a healthy way. Rice adds calories through carbohydrates, but cats need calories from protein and fat. If your cat needs to gain weight, switch to calorie-dense cat food or vet-recommended supplements instead.