As a feline lover, one thing you would have observed about felines(although picky at times) is their urge to eat what humans eat, but can cats eat rice and beans.
Cats require taurine and taurine can only be found in protein sources that come from animals. And it is necessary for healthy eyesight, digestion, heart muscle function, as well as a strong immune system for cats. While it’s okay for cats to eat beans and rice occasionally, their bodies were not meant to digest legumes often, which could lead to upset stomach and pains, and they can’t cater for the cats nutritional needs. This article will explore in detail everything you need to know about cats and rice and beans.
Can Cats Eat Beans and Rice?
Cats can eat beans and rice but not in the same proportions. Yes, cats can eat beans—with caveats, which we’ll cover below. However, beans aren’t a “protein powerhouse” for cats as they are for humans.
While beans are full of protein, it’s not the kind of protein your cat needs. Cats are obligate carnivores meaning they require specific nutrients that can only be supplied through the ingestion of animal protein.
While human vegetarians can substitute protein sources such as beans and lentils for animal meat, this isn’t possible for cats. That said, beans don’t necessarily pose a hazard for your cat—as long as the beans are served plain, cooked, and only as an occasional snack.
When in doubt, talk to your veterinarian first in case your cat has specific medical conditions (such as pancreatitis ) that could be exacerbated by eating beans.
Rice on the other hand can be eaten by cats but in small amounts. It’s non-toxic, so it won’t harm them to have a bit in their food, but you shouldn’t give too much as it’s not an essential part of their diet. If you’re feeding your cat a complete and balanced cat food, they won’t gain additional nutritional benefits from eating rice alongside. Plus, too much of this filler may stop them from eating enough of the healthy diet they need!
Nutritional Benefits of Beans and Rice for Cats
Think of rice as a good staple to have in a balanced cat food product, but other ingredients are also recommended, providing the remaining nutrients your cat needs to be happy and healthy.
The nutritional benefits of rice for your cat depending on the way rice is produced. Let’s take a look at the differences between brown rice (whole grain) and white rice (processed).
Brown Rice vs White Rice
Brown rice is a “whole” grain that keeps its bran, germ, and endosperm, making it healthful for humans and dogs. It also has several healthy nutritional benefits for cats:
Fiber and Protein
Thiamine (B1)
Pyridoxine (B6)
The elements are iron and magnesium.
Food processing and nutrient content are the main differences between brown and white rice.
Due to its natural state, brown rice has more vitamins and other nutrients, according to Harvard University School of Public Health.
Milling white rice removes its nutrients. Vitamins and iron are added to polished white rice, making it “enriched”
Plain rice is healthy for cats but doesn’t provide nutritional value, says Dr. Rachel Barrack, DVM, CVA, CVCH, owner of Animal Acupuncture in New York City. Yes, because.
As obligate carnivores, cats need high-protein diets.
Cats need little carbohydrate. As a carbohydrate, plain rice doesn’t benefit most cats’ health.
Rice might be hard for cats to digest. Overeating carbohydrates can also lead to obesity and diabetes in purr babies.
Although brown rice is more nutritious than white rice, cats shouldn’t eat both.
Beans provide protein and fiber, but they shouldn’t be your cat’s main food. Protein and fiber are needed for a healthy digestive system and constipation in cats, however animal-based protein is preferred.
Many vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are in beans. As obligate carnivores, cats should eat animal protein, however beans can supply some nutrients.
Potential Risks of Feeding Cats Beans and Rice
As an obligate carnivore, your cat’s digestive tract can handle meat but not much else.
Beans provide nutrients and proteins, but cats’ digestive systems cannot metabolize them.Beans can cause vomiting, flatulence, and diarrhea in cats.
Simple, cooked beans are best for cats. Never feed raw beans, baked beans, canned beans, or refried beans with salt, sweeteners, or spices. As for rice Pet parents should know that most cats can safely eat tiny amounts of rice, but there are exceptions:
Certain cats are sensitive to new meals. If they’re not used to grains, they may vomit or have digestion troubles. Cats’ metabolism and GI tracts have adapted to meat, thus rice can upset their guts.
* Uncooked rice is hard to digest and might cause abdominal pain, bloating, and upset stomach in cats. Uncooked rice can also contain lectin, a natural insecticide that causes vomiting and diarrhea. If your cat has bloating or soreness more than 24 hours after eating uncooked rice, take them to the clinic.
Cats can become obese from rice carbohydrates. Diabetes is more likely in obese cats.
Kats that eat too much rice may become emaciated. Cats may feel full after eating grains and lose interest in nutritious meat.
How Many Beans and Rice Should Cats Eat?
Beans and Rice should be a rare treat for cats, since too many carbohydrates in a cat’s diet can cause diarrhea, bloating, and gas.
There’s no specific measurement for table scraps—but an occasional treat shouldn’t hurt. It’s when a cat’s daily diet is more than 35 percent carbohydrates that you’ll see gastrointestinal (GI) upset, says Wortinger.
Preparation Tips for Cats Eating Beans and Rice
Preparing beans and rice for your feline doesn’t require a long list of recipes intact it is as simple as making it plain. While cooked beans and rice is not harmful, you need to keep in mind that this means only cooked beans and rice. All of the other additives that humans might enjoy, such as salt or soy sauce (which is also high in sodium), might not be good for your cat.
While adding in veggies, such as carrots or peas, has nutritional value, it’s still important to talk to your veterinarian before introducing anything new to your cat’s meal.
Are There Alternatives to Adding Beans and Rice to My Cat’s Diet?
Following through with a particular diet routine can become tiring and instead of beans and rice which may be eaten by our feline friend’s friends but pose potential risks to them, there is a list of other alternatives that could be added to your cat’s diet.
* Salmon: A good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, salmon can be a delicious and tasty treat for cats.
* Spinach: Full of vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, and K, iron, and calcium, spinach can be a healthy, cat-friendly treat, according to Dr. Wismer. However, if your cat has a history of calcium oxalate bladder stones, you should avoid giving them spinach.
* Another good source of protein and B vitamins, eggs are safe for your feline to eat, To reduce the risk of foodborne diseases, be sure to cook any eggs you feed your cat.
Other alternatives include bananas, oatmeal, and chicken amongst others
Final thought
On a final note, feeding your feline with beans and rice is safe but with the caveats discussed above. Considering other alternatives that pose less danger to the cats can also be a good thing for our feline friends.
