Oats

Oats have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians and Greeks, who valued the old plant for its hardiness and used oats primarily used as animal food. In fact, cereals like corn, oat, millets, sorghum and barley were mostly used for livestock feed. Nowadays, they are in demand for their enriched nutritional value and health benefits, including protein and fibre content, low glycaemic index and abundance of vitamins and minerals.

Incorporating oats into a dog’s diet can provide a range of essential nutrients that support overall health, digestion, energy levels, and skin and coat condition. Rolled oats are quicker to cook and easier to digest. But whichever oats you are using, it’s essential to ensure that they are cooked properly and fed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

And given their versatility, oats are a valuable addition to the Well Dog pantry.

The benefits

Rich in Nutrients

Rolled oats are a powerhouse of essential nutrients beneficial for dogs. They contain a variety of vitamins (vitamins E, K, B6 and B9), minerals, and antioxidants that support the immune system, promote healthy digestion, and contribute to overall vitality.

Source of Fibre

As an excellent source of soluble fibre (ratio of 2:1 or higher for soluble to insoluble), rolled oats help to maintain heart health, stabilise blood sugar levels and support digestive health by nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. The insoluble fibre contributes to overall digestive health by adding bulk to stools and preventing constipation.

Energy Boost

Dogs, especially those with active lifestyles, require a steady supply of energy to support their daily activities. Rolled oats are a complex carbohydrate that provides a sustained release of energy.

Supports Skin and Coat Health

The nutrients found in rolled oats, such as vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, can help maintain healthy skin and a lustrous coat.

Antioxidants

Oats are high in powerful antioxidants known as avenanthramides. The anti-inflammatory properties of avenanthramides may alleviate skin irritations and itching in dogs with sensitive skin or allergies.

Versatile and Easy to Prepare

Rolled oats are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into the diet in various ways, either in baking or in toppings.

Did you know?

Rolled oats can also be combined with warm water (and perhaps olive oil) to prepare a compress for topical use.

 

Nutrition facts (per 100g)

Rolled oats (Oats, whole grain, rolled, old fashioned), 100g
Water                           10.2 g
Energy                          382 KCal
Protein                         13.5 g
Total fats                      5.89 g
Dietary fibre                 10.4 g
Carbohydrates              68.7 g
Calcium                        46 mg
Magnesium                  126 mg
Phosphorus                  387 mg
Potassium                    350 mg
Sodium                           1 mg
Thiamine                      0.406 mg
Niacin                          0.993 mg
Vitamin B6                   0.135 mg
Vitamin B9 (folate)        32 µg

For full nutrient content see Food Data Central

A pile of rolled oats on a shiny surface

 

Want to know more? These studies may be useful:

  • Pazyar N, Yaghoobi R, Kazerouni A, Feily A. Oatmeal in dermatology: a brief review. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2012 Mar-Apr;78(2):142-5. doi: 10.4103/0378-6323.93629. PMID: 22421643.
  • Rasane P, Jha A, Sabikhi L, Kumar A, Unnikrishnan VS. Nutritional advantages of oats and opportunities for its processing as value added foods – a review. J Food Sci Technol. 2015 Feb;52(2):662-75. doi: 10.1007/s13197-013-1072-1. Epub 2013 Jun 25. PMID: 25694675; PMCID: PMC4325078.

Important Considerations:

  • Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
  • If you are feeding commercial food, check the label for ingredients before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
  • Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
  • Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
  • I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
  • Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.
  • I am not a professional canine nutritionist but supporting research is cited.
  • The recipes shared were created by me and tested in my kitchen – and tasted and approved by our doggy friends!