No, you do not have to soak oatmeal if you plan to cook it. Soaking oatmeal is primarily done when you intend to eat it raw, such as in overnight oats recipes.
When you cook oatmeal, the heat and moisture soften the oats, breaking down their starches and making them more digestible. This cooking process effectively replaces the need for soaking, as it achieves a similar result of making the oats tender and ready to eat.
To cook oatmeal, simply bring water or milk (or a combination of both) to a boil, then add the oats and cook them according to the package instructions or your desired consistency. You can also add various toppings, such as fruits, nuts, seeds, or sweeteners, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the cooked oatmeal.