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Can Cats Eat Rice Cakes?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Are rice cakes safe for cats?
Rice cakes are light, crunchy discs made from puffed rice. Plain rice cakes are not toxic to cats, but they offer little and flavored versions can be unsafe. Cats are obligate carnivores, so they get what they need from meat and never need rice cakes. If you offer them at all, treat them as a rare, tiny extra.
How to serve rice cakes to your cat
- Choose plain, unsalted rice cakes
- Break them into small pieces
- Offer them occasionally
What to avoid
- Flavored rice cakes (onion, garlic, chocolate or xylitol)
- Rice cakes spread with peanut butter that contains xylitol
How many rice cakes can my cat have?
Offer just a tiny taste, about a fingernail-sized piece, once in a while. Treats, including rice cakes, should stay under about 10% of your cat's daily calories.
Signs your cat may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your cat has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can kittens eat rice cakes?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding rice cakes. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my cat ate too many rice cakes?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your cat ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my cat have rice cakes?
Treat them as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult cat, and less for small ones.
More questions cat owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Dogs Eat Rice Cakes?