Why Do Cats Eat Grass?

Ever wondered why your cat nibbles on grass? Is it a good or a bad thing? Read on to find out…

Your feline friend has probably nibbled on grass more than once. While it might seem strange (especially if your cat is sick afterwards) there's really nothing to worry about. Not only is there no evidence to suggest that grass is harmful to your cat, but many experts theorise munching on the green stuff can actually be beneficial for your cat.

Carnivorous Rex

Cats can be sick when they eat grass because they lack the required enzymes to break down vegetable matter. Does this mean your cat likes to throw up and does it on purpose? No one enjoys being sick, however the act may eliminate indigestible matter from the cat's digestive tract, making them feel much better. This is important because cats often eat their prey as is, including all the edible and inedible parts (fur, bones, feathers, etc).

Folic Acid

The juices in grass contain folic acid. This is an essential vitamin for a cat's bodily functions and assists in the production of hemoglobin, the protein that moves oxygen in the blood. Who knew your cat was being a health junkie eating their greens?

Nature's Laxative

Another theory is that grass acts as a natural laxative, helping with cases of indigestion. As any cat owner knows, cats often throw up lovely little fur ball presents for us. When fur moves deep into the digestive tract, your cat needs a little help to break it down and pass it out the other end. A little bit of grass may just go a long way in cleaning out their system!

At the end of it all, eating grass is not a bad thing. However, whether you have an indoor or an outdoor cat, you should make sure that all your household plants are of the non-toxic variety as cats can often have a nibble. You may also want to grow a small tray of grass just for the cat or start a ‘kitty’ herbal garden. This will give your cat an alternative to outdoor grass, the eating of which could lead to ingestion of pesticides, herbicides or chemicals that may have been used to treat your (or your neighbour's) yard.

Does your cat eat much grass? Have you tried growing your own grass or herb patch for your kitties?