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House Pet

Grains & Starches

Can cats eat barley?

SafeCats

Plain, fully cooked barley is safe for most healthy cats in a small amount, but it is not a substitute for the animal protein and complete nutrition cats require.

Safe serving: A small amount of plain, fully cooked barley mixed with the cat's normal complete food.

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-16

Frequently asked questions

Can cats eat barley?

Plain, fully cooked barley is safe for most healthy cats in a small amount, but it is not a substitute for the animal protein and complete nutrition cats require.

How much barley can I give my cat?

A small amount of plain, fully cooked barley mixed with the cat's normal complete food.. Introduce any new food gradually and watch for stomach upset.

This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.

Read our methodology for how every cat food verdict is sourced and reviewed.