All cat owners are familiar with their furry friends' occasional nibbling on grass, often followed by the cat vomiting up their meal. This reaction often leads pet parents to believe that grass is toxic to their felines, and they may scold them for indulging in the greenery.
The urge for cats to eat grass is undeniably peculiar, considering that they are obligate carnivores and do not require vegetation to survive. However, it may surprise you to discover that when cats eat grass, it can actually provide several health benefits for them. These benefits include relieving constipation and serving as a natural stress reliever.
Why do cats eat grass?
Currently researchers have not reached a consensus on a single definitive reason why cats eat grass. However, there are several theories that attempt to explain why felines enjoy munching on lawns. It is believed that cats may consume grass to soothe an upset stomach, address a potential vitamin deficiency, or alleviate constipation.
1 Aids with stomach upset
One of the prevailing theories regarding why cats eat grass is that it helps with stomach upset. Cats often vomit after consuming grass because they lack the necessary enzymes to digest it properly. It is believed that they eat grass to induce regurgitation, assisting in clearing their system of undigested substances such as hair, feathers, or bones from prey. This behavior is also observed in dogs.
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2 Grass juice contains folic acid
Grass juice contains folic acid, an essential vitamin found in a cat's mother's milk. Folic acid supports digestion, promotes cell growth, and aids in the production of haemoglobin. Cats may instinctively seek out grass if they feel deficient in these vitamins, explaining why they eat grass.
3 Acts as a natural laxative
At times, indigestible items may progress too far along the digestive tract, leading to obstruction. Grass can help break down these obstructions, facilitating easier passage and relieving constipation. Therefore, grass serves as a natural laxative for cats, assisting in cleansing their system.
Is it safe for cats to eat grass?
When consumed in moderation and free from pesticides or herbicides, grass is generally safe for cats to eat. However, excessive grass consumption can lead to the grass getting lodged in their nasal passages, causing excessive sneezing. If this occurs, it is important to contact your veterinarian promptly to have the grass manually removed.
If your cat has a habit of snacking on plants and grass, it is essential to ensure that all houseplants in your home are non-toxic to cats. Certain popular houseplants, such as Kalanchoes and Lilies, are poisonous to cats and can cause mild to severe reactions.
If your cat ingests a poisonous plant, it is crucial to seek veterinary treatment immediately. You can identify which plants are harmful or poisonous to cats by referring to our guide on harmful substances and poisonous foods.
To ensure that your cat consumes safe grass, you can purchase pots of cat grass, providing them with their own designated area to graze. This not only satisfies their desire to munch on grass but also helps prevent them from nibbling on your beloved houseplants.