Carbohydrates have been a controversial topic among dog and cat owners for years. Some consider them an unnecessary addition to food, while others consider them a vital source of energy. However, recent research clearly shows that carefully selected carbohydrates, such as corn and rice, in dogs' and cats' diets can support our pets' health, digestion, and immunity. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the facts, myths, and role of grains in their diets.
Corn and rice in the diet of dogs and cats – facts instead of myths
Corn and rice in a dog's diet. Carbohydrates have been controversial for many years in dog and cat nutrition. Fierce debates continue to this day, with claims that "dogs don't need carbohydrates" and "grains in food are just filler." However, current scientific knowledge clearly indicates that properly selected and balanced carbohydrate sources directly contribute to maintaining health, proper metabolism, and the body's energy balance.
How Dogs and Cats Digest Carbohydrates – Species Differences
Both dogs and cats utilize glucose as an energy source. Despite descending from fully carnivorous ancestors, dogs are facultative carnivores. This means that their digestive systems have adapted to digest and metabolize carbohydrates. In cats, this ability is less pronounced—they are obligate carnivores—but it still exists. For this species, it's important that the carbohydrate source is easily digestible and properly cooked.
The role of carbohydrates in nutrition – energy, health and food structure
Carbohydrates are a source of easily digestible energy. This is especially important for growing, highly active, pregnant, or nursing animals. These nutrients also contribute to the crunchiness and shelf life of dry food and the consistency and texture of wet food.
Corn and rice in dog and cat food – valuable energy sources, not “fillers”
One of the most demonized sources of carbohydrates is corn. The truth is, however, that high-quality, properly processed corn is an excellent source of energy and fiber. It also contains a range of vitamins and minerals, including easily digestible starch. After extrusion (a technological process that breaks down the starch structure), it becomes easily digestible and well-tolerated by most dogs. Corn is also a source of beta-carotene, B vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids, and antioxidants.
When choosing food , it's important to remember that not all corn is created equal. High-quality producers use whole corn kernels or corn meal, which, when properly processed, are easily digestible and pose no digestive problems for healthy dogs.
Rice is also a popular carbohydrate source. It's one of the most easily digestible ingredients in dog food. It's often found in veterinary diets, dog food for sensitive stomachs, or those undergoing convalescence. It contains starch, which, when cooked, becomes readily available to the dog's digestive enzymes. Besides its energy-producing role, rice also has functional benefits. It soothes the intestinal mucosa, helps stabilize stool consistency, and is a source of B vitamins, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Brown rice also provides fiber and antioxidants.
It is also a hypoallergenic ingredient – it rarely causes adverse reactions, which makes it an excellent element of elimination and mono-protein diets.
The combination of corn and rice in this food recipe is no accident. Both ingredients complement each other in terms of amino acid profile, digestibility, and energy. Corn provides fiber and vegetable fat, while rice provides easily digestible carbohydrates. This allows the animal's body to utilize energy steadily over an extended period, without dramatic fluctuations in blood glucose.
Cereals in premium food – balance, not extremes, is the key to health
The presence of grains – in moderate amounts and from properly processed sources – helps reduce the amount of fat in the food, provides adequate fiber levels, and supports the proper functioning of the digestive system. This is why corn and rice are often found in premium and super premium , and not – as is commonly believed – in cheap "filler" foods.
Not every dog needs the same level of carbohydrates, but eliminating them completely isn't always beneficial. Active, athletic, or young dogs have higher energy needs – in such cases, the inclusion of corn or rice in the food effectively meets energy needs without excess fat.
Dogs that are overweight or have a low activity level can benefit from a moderate carbohydrate content, which promotes a feeling of fullness and helps maintain stable glucose levels.
Corn and rice in dogs' and cats' diets aren't fillers, but valuable sources of energy, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In the right proportions and after proper processing, they become part of a balanced, healthy diet for dogs and—to a lesser extent, cats as well.
However, it's always crucial to tailor the diet to the animal's individual needs, health, activity level, and food tolerance. In nutrition, as in behavior, balance is key—not extremes.
Natalia Młodnicka
I am a certified specialist in animal psychology and canine behavior, a dog trainer (behaviorist, trainer, and canine animal psychologist), and an animal nutritionist. I run a registered practice where I support dog owners in resolving behavioral problems, raising their pets, and building lasting, trusting relationships with their pets.
I have gained my experience over many years working with dogs, both through individual consultations and numerous training courses and internships. I graduated from the Polish Academy of Zoopsychology and Animal Therapy and from Pet Idea. I regularly attend seminars, workshops, and training courses, constantly improving my skills. I emphasize positive methods in my work, and my specialization is canine behavior therapy.
I am the author of specialist articles for magazines such as Animal Expert, Pies Rasowy and Zoobranża.
Privately, I am a happy owner of three wonderful dogs: Jaskierek, Ramen and Mando.
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