If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably noticed that they are sometimes very partial to a bite of weed. This may seem unusual given that cats are obligate carnivores, but grass can actually do them a lot of good. Use Purina to find out why cats eat grass.
All cat owners know that their cat likes to graze the occasional grass – this is often accompanied by their cat spitting up breakfast. Because of this reaction, pet parents often think the grass is actually toxic to their cats, and many blame them for chewing on the green stuff.
Cats’ urge to eat grass is certainly strange, especially since they are obligate carnivores and don’t need plants to survive. You might be surprised to learn that eating grass actually has many health benefits for cats, including everything from relieving constipation to reducing stress naturally. Find out all the reasons why cats eat grass with Purina.
“Why does my cat eat grass?”
This is still a mystery and there are many different theories. Eating grass is a common and normal behavior for many cats, but the big question is why? Some people think that cats can make themselves sick by eating grass, while others think they like the smell. Another theory is that it aids digestion and prevents hairballs. Or it could be related to trace minerals found in grasses but not found in other sources of cat nutrition, although there is no real evidence for this.
If your cat likes to graze, a safer option is to buy “cat grass” that can be grown indoors or outdoors and that you know is free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals. However, if you’re concerned about your cat grazing or if she seems to be sick a lot, it’s always safest to talk to your veterinarian.
For now, researchers haven’t agreed on the exact reasons why cats eat grass. But there are many theories about why your cat likes to eat on your lawn. It may help when they have an upset stomach, when the cat eats grass due to a lack of vitamins, or when constipation is relieved.
1. Helps with an upset stomach
One of the most common theories about why cats eat grass is that it helps with an upset stomach. This has to do with the fact that they tend to vomit after eating because cats actually lack the proper enzymes needed to digest grass.
Because of this, it is believed that they eat it to help them vomit, thereby helping them get rid of anything they cannot digest, such as: B. Own hair or feathers and bones from prey. This is also a common reason dogs eat grass.
If your cats feel they’re deficient in these vitamins, Hill says they can turn to grass to help counteract the condition. So if you’re wondering why does my cat eat grass? This is likely the reason.
3. It acts as a natural laxative
Sometimes something your cat can’t digest travels too far in the digestive tract and can get stuck. In this case, the grass can actually help break it down, making it easier for them to pass. This means that weed can actually help cleanse your system and relieve constipation.
Is it safe for cats to eat grass?
It is perfectly fine for cats to eat grass when eaten in moderation and not treated with pesticides or herbicides. However, if your cat eats a lot of grass, the grass may get stuck in their nostrils, causing them to sneeze too much. In this case, you must contact your veterinarian immediately to remove it manually.
If your cat has a habit of eating plants and grass, you need to make sure all houseplants are non-toxic. Certain popular houseplants, such as Kalanchoe and lilies, are actually poisonous to cats, causing mild to severe reactions.
If your cat has ingested a poisonous plant, be sure to take her to the veterinarian for treatment. Find out which of your plants are toxic to your cat with our guide to contaminants and toxic foods.
If you want to make sure your cat eats only safe grass, you can purchase a cat grass pot that gives your cat her own private grazing area. Not only will this satisfy their feeding needs, but it will also keep them from chewing on your beloved houseplants.