Why Do Cats Eat Grass?

You have probably noticed your cat eating grass at some point, and have probably wondered why she does this. After all, cats are not vegetarian! You may have even started to panic a little, and worry that it might make her ill. However, eating grass is a natural part of your cat’s behavior.

When a cat eats grass, this triggers regurgitation of foods the cat is unable to digest. This manifests in bouts of vomiting, which can be very alarming for humans to witness, and there is a temptation to think that your cat is very poorly. Don’t worry; regurgitation is a natural process for your cat, as distasteful as it might appear to us.

When a cat eats an animal such as a mouse or bird, they tend to eat the indigestible parts such as bones, fur and feathers, along with the meat. This cannot pass through the cat’s digestive system as it could cause a blockage, so must be expelled in another way. Also, cats groom themselves regularly, and over time may ingest fur, which forms as hair balls in the digestive tract. She will need to regurgitate to expel these hairballs.

If a cat does not have access to grass, she may try to chew on house plants, which could be dangerous to her health as some plants will be poisonous to her. Also, cats cannot digest plant matter, and plants and vegetables will just pass right through her digestive system. Undigested plant matter can react with other foods such as meat and cause illness. If your cat does not have access to the outside, it may be an idea to provide potted grass for her benefit.

Above all, do not punish her to vomiting in the house; regurgitation is a natural function for her and she will not understand why she is being punished. A cat can no more stop the vomiting process than a human. You will need to accept that as a cat owner you will have to clear up the occasional pile of vomit.

However, if your cat is sick excessively, appears lethargic or there is blood in the vomit, contact the vet as she may need medical attention.