Oats, a widely cultivated cereal grain, serve as a food source for a variety of animals. This versatile grain is commonly incorporated into the diets of both domesticated and wild species.
Animals That Consume Oats
Horses frequently eat oats, which form a significant portion of their diet, providing fiber, protein, fat, and vitamins. Cattle also consume whole oats and oat hay, benefiting from fiber and protein for muscle and bone development, with dairy cows potentially showing increased milk output. Chickens can eat both cooked and uncooked oats, offering a nutritious supplement of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Pigs are sometimes fed oats to support their health, with some studies suggesting benefits for minimizing diarrhea in piglets and preventing constipation in sows. Goats and sheep also safely consume oats, contributing to their energy, protein, and mineral needs. Rabbits can have plain uncooked rolled oats in small quantities as an occasional treat, though oat hay is a more regular part of their diet.
In the wild, various animals forage for oats when available. Rodents such as mice, voles, rats, and squirrels scavenge for oats in fields or storage areas. Squirrels find raw oats palatable and can hoard them for later consumption.
Many bird species, including grouse, doves, quail, pheasants, sparrows, and blackbirds, also seek out and eat oats directly from stalks or from feeders. Deer are drawn to oats, often preferring them over other cereal grains in food plots due to their sweet taste. Bears are also known to graze on wild oats, especially when other food sources are scarce.
Oats as a Nutritional Source
Oats are a source of carbohydrates, providing energy for various bodily functions and activities. Their fiber content supports digestive health. Oats also contain protein, important for muscle development and tissue repair.
Oats supply essential vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins like thiamine, involved in energy metabolism. They also provide minerals such as iron, important for oxygen circulation, and magnesium, which supports bone health. Phosphorus is another mineral found in oats, contributing to overall mineral balance. Oats also contain beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber, which can positively influence gut microflora and support digestive processes.
Feeding Oats to Animals
Oats are available in various forms, including whole, rolled, and crimped, each affecting digestibility. Whole oats are often suitable for young animals like calves up to eight months old and sheep due to their high fiber content and husk. For older cattle, processing oats through rolling or grinding can improve digestibility and nutrient utilization. Horses can readily digest whole oats due to their lower starch content compared to other grains.
Proper portion control and suitability for the specific species are important. While generally considered safe, feeding excessive amounts of oats can lead to digestive upset, such as scouring or bloat, particularly in ruminants if introduced too rapidly or in large quantities. For wild animals, providing oats might not always be beneficial and should be done with care, as their natural diets are varied. Uncooked, plain oats are safe for birds, but cooked oats can become sticky and potentially harm their beaks or feathers. Rabbits should only receive oats as an occasional treat, as they are fattening and can contribute to weight gain if overfed.