Boston, MA – Oatmeal is a popular breakfast choice for many humans, known for its warmth, customizability, and health benefits. It is a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. However, when it comes to dogs, the question arises: can they eat oatmeal too? Let’s explore the potential risks and benefits of feeding oatmeal to our furry friends.
According to veterinarian Diana Watkins of 143 Veterinary Services in Massachusetts, oatmeal and oats themselves are not toxic to dogs, so there’s no need to panic if your pup gets into your breakfast. However, it’s important to be cautious about other ingredients that might be present in the oatmeal, such as raisins, chocolate, or sugar substitutes, which can be harmful to dogs.
While oatmeal is not harmful to dogs, there’s also no real benefit to feeding it to them. In fact, feeding them oatmeal in large quantities can result in an unbalanced diet, especially for small dogs with a low-calorie requirement. Regulated dog food is recommended to provide dogs with a nutritionally balanced diet.
Furthermore, if you’re looking for easily digestible options for a dog with an upset stomach, veterinarian Watkins suggests white or brown rice instead of oatmeal. These are considered to be much safer options for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
When it comes to feeding human food to dogs in general, it’s important to be cautious and avoid certain foods that can be harmful to them, such as grapes and chocolate. Some foods, like bananas and broccoli, are not toxic but also don’t provide any additional benefits to a dog’s diet.
In conclusion, while oatmeal may not be harmful to dogs, it’s best to stick to regulated dog food to ensure that they are receiving a nutritionally balanced diet. Additionally, it’s important to be cautious when feeding human food to dogs and to avoid any potentially harmful ingredients.