Why do cats eat grass

You already know that cats are obligate carnivores – we bang on about it enough. They need a diet of pure meat to thrive. So why do we regularly spot our cats snacking on grass in the garden? And why do they flock to clumps of cat grass to have a nibble? Is this roughage bad for them?

Read on to learn more about why cats eat grass and whether it’s safe for them to do so.

It was originally believed that cats ate grass because it helped them throw up if they were feeling sick. But this isn’t always the case. Some cats can enjoy a lawn salad without being sick afterwards. So what’s the deal with the garden grazing?

That’s not to say that some cats don’t eat grass to help relieve stomach upsets. It’s not a stretch to theorise that cats chomp on grass to help them be sick – it’s something dogs are known for doing. It could help to clear their system of something that is making them feel unwell. 

Grass contains folic acid. Which can help with digestion, support cell growth, and even helps with the production of haemoglobin. It could be that your cat is feeling a little constipated or under the weather. And chewing grass is the antidote. 

If your cat is a little too curious for their own good, they can eat things they shouldn’t. Sometimes, these forbidden snacks work their way too far down their digestive system to be vomited back up. In situations like this, your cat might seek the help of some grass to help push it through to the other end faster. It also might help to shift stubborn hairballs. 

There’s nothing to suggest that eating grass is bad for your cat. But if your feline is a serial garden grazer, ensure no chemicals or pesticides are used on your lawn to prevent them from poisoning themselves. 

If you have an indoor cat who keeps eating your plants, make sure you switch them out with non-toxic plants. You might also like to redirect their vegetarian habits by offering them a tray of cat grass. Cat grass itself isn’t an actual type of plant but rather a combination of plants such as barley, rye, or wheat that you can grow in a tray for your cat to snack on. 

If your cat is eating grass excessively, it’s best to take them to the vet to be checked out and make sure there’s nothing serious going on. 

For the healthiest cat possible, make sure you’re giving them the ideal diet. KatKin’s fresh cat food is made with 100% human-quality meat, gently cooked to preserve the nutrients and frozen to keep it fresh. Available in a range of tasty flavours, it’s the best way to help your cat thrive. Delicious.