Can dogs have oatmeal? You might wonder if there are any health benefits of feeding your furry friends with oats, but not to worry, we’ve got you covered in this article.
Dogs were the first species of animals to be domesticated by human beings known as ‘hunter-gatherers’ more than 15,000 years ago. The dog which is derived from extinct grey wolves has expanded to a large number due to their long association with humans.
Dogs are regarded as the most friendly domestic animals and as such they are used for many purposes ranging from pets, security, sports competitions and so on.
Keeping these dogs healthy and fit is one thing that must be taken with every serious thought which includes and not limited to their medication and proper feeding.
Although there are various nutritious foods that can be given to dogs to keep them in good health, in this article we shall take a deep insight on oatmeal and its nutritional value to the dogs.
What is oatmeal?
Oats, also known scientifically as Avena Sativa, are complete grain foods. They are very nutritious as well as have a very balanced nutrient composition. Oats contain a good balance of amino acids and are also a good source of high quality protein. Other constituents of oats includes vitamins, minerals, antioxidant compounds etc
Can dogs have oatmeal?
To answer the question, yes. Oatmeal when properly cooked can have additional health value to a dog’s diet.
Over the years, oatmeal has increasingly become a common ingredient in commercial dog food making it the basic breakfast staple.
While it seems clear that oatmeal is generally safe for your canine companion, you may wonder whether you should use caution with some preparation methods and if it’s truly healthy for them.
Having established an overview of oatmeal, let’s then review its health benefits to dogs.
What are the benefits of oatmeal to dogs
The nutritional values of oatmeal are enormous and of health benefits. These are:
1. Good Skin Health: The skin, just as that of the human is the largest organ of the dog’s body. It protects the dog against the environment, regulates temperature as well as gives it a sense of beauty.
Oatmeal contains Vitamin B which produces healthy skin cells and linoleic acid which helps in maintaining the integrity of the skin as well as wound healing.
2. Helps in Digestion: Rich in fibre, oatmeal can ease digestion. Although studies in dogs specifically are limited, research suggests that increased fibre intake may be beneficial for treating constipation.
3. Lowers Cholesterol Levels: Oatmeal can be beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels in dogs. This is because oatmeal contains a type of fibre that is related with improved health of the heart called beta glucan.
A recent study in sample of 14 dogs shows that using one oat beta glucan as supplement for 71 days reduces level of LDL cholesterol.
Are there any side effects of feeding my dog oatmeal?
Although it has been established that oats are a great source of nutrients, it is imperative to note that not all types are suitable for the dog’s consumption, according to Healthline.
Raw oats particularly can be difficult for the dog to digest.
To bring negative side effects to its possible minimum, it’s recommended for fibre consumption to increase gradually over time by 1–3 g/day, as well as with plenty of water.
Which dog foods contain oatmeal?
The American Kennel Club suggests that dogs can be fed with around one tablespoon (15 grams) of cooked oatmeal for every 20 pounds (9 kg) of body weight (16).
Many popular types of commercial dog food contain oatmeal. Some specific examples include:
- Nutro Wholesome Essentials Venison Meal, Brown Rice & Oatmeal Recipe
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Fish and Oatmeal Recipe
- Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Lamb & Oatmeal Formula
- Wellness Complete Health Deboned Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe
- Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Organic Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe
