Have you ever wondered why cats eat grass?
Ever catch your cat chomping on grass and wonder what on earth they’re doing? You’re not alone — the first time I saw it, I thought my cat had lost her mind. But it turns out, this quirky little habit actually serves a purpose.
Why Cats Eat Grass (Yes, on Purpose)
Believe it or not, cats eat grass to help themselves feel better — especially when something’s not sitting right in their stomach. That could be a hairball, something they couldn’t digest, or just mild tummy trouble. Grass acts like nature’s antacid for them.
When they eat enough of it, it can trigger vomiting, which helps get rid of whatever’s bothering them. It’s not always about throwing up, though — grass also has a bit of roughage that helps move things along in their digestive tract. Think of it like a natural laxative when needed.
Do Cats Get Nutrients from Grass?
They do, actually. Even though cats are obligate carnivores (meat is their main deal), grass can offer small boosts of nutrients like folic acid, which helps with oxygen in the blood. Wild cats get similar nutrients by eating the stomach contents of their prey, which often includes plant matter. So in a way, this behavior is rooted in instinct.
Is It Always About Digestion?
Not necessarily. Some cats just like the texture or taste of grass. Others might chew it out of curiosity or boredom, or even as a way to cope with stress. If your cat’s munching a bit here and there, especially on safe, pet-friendly grass, it’s usually nothing to worry about.
But if they’re obsessively chewing or vomiting frequently, it might be time to call your vet. Overdoing it can sometimes point to anxiety or an underlying health issue.
When Grass Becomes Dangerous
Here’s the catch — not all grass is safe. If it’s been treated with pesticides or herbicides, it can be toxic. And if your cat can’t find grass and starts nibbling on houseplants, that can be risky too.
Some common plants that are toxic to cats include lilies, aloe, daffodils, foxglove, chives, and many more. Even non-toxic plants can irritate a cat’s stomach.
If your cat shows signs like vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, lethargy, rapid breathing, or pale gums after eating a plant, get to the vet immediately. The faster you act, the better the outcome.
Want to Offer Grass Safely? Try “Cat Grass”
You can absolutely grow grass at home just for your cat. Pet stores sell “cat grass” kits — usually wheatgrass, oat, rye, or barley — and they’re safe and easy to grow indoors. I’ve kept a pot on my windowsill for years, and my cats love it. It satisfies their craving and keeps them away from my other houseplants.
Just a heads-up: skip the grass for kittens under four months old — their digestive systems are still developing and might not handle it well.
Bottom Line
A little grass now and then is totally normal for cats — and often helpful. Just make sure it’s the safe kind, and keep an eye out for any changes in behavior. If you want to be proactive, grow some cat grass at home. It’s one of those small things that can make a big difference in your cat’s health and happiness.
