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Have you ever observed your feline friend munching on grass? This act might seem unusual to you, as they are carnivores by nature, but it is quite common among cats. It might puzzle you, but there are many reasons why they do it.
Video Credits: Planet of The Cats/ YouTube
Cats, despite being carnivores by nature, can obtain many benefits from consuming grass. From providing the right nutrition to aiding in digestion, grass plays a vital role in a cat’s health and well-being. Let's understand the reasons behind cats' grass eating ritual, and let's explore the types of grass they eat:
Why Do Cats Eat Grass?
Provide Nutrition
Cats eat grass as the grass is rich in folic acid, which is beneficial for feline health. This folic acid helps cats with the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen in their body. Cats might eat grass to support their overall body's growth with these essential nutrients.
Image Credit: Freepik
To Aid Digestion
Cats are carnivores by nature and haunt small prey for their daily diet requirements. The small feathers and bones of those prey aren’t easily digestible. So, grass for cats here works as a natural laxative, which helps cats settle their upset stomachs, and according to studies, wild cats' ancestors also did the same. Good gut health can help cats maximise nutrient absorption and promote quality stools.
To Induce Vomiting
Cats also eat grass to induce vomiting and throw up other unnecessary elements from the stomach like hairballs, feathers, parasites, or bones, which can become an irritation in the digestive tract or even cause more serious problems.
Image Credit: Freepik
Behavioural Issues
Cats may enjoy eating grass due to their boredom and curiosity. Just like us, cats can also get bored, and eating grass might serve as a source of entertainment and act as a natural stress reliever for them.
What Type Of Grass Do Cats Eat?
Cat grass is specifically grown for cats and is safe for them to consume. Usually, a type of cereal grass, such as oat, wheat, or barley, is cat grass. Here below know more about this grass:
Oat Grass
Cats usually prefer eating oat grass to other types of grass, as oat grass is a little bit sweeter than the others. Oats are a great choice for your feline. If your cat is a picky eater, then let her feed on oat grass, as it contains healthy antioxidants that fight free radicals in the bloodstream.
Image Credit: Freepik
Barley Grass
Barley grass is a young, green shoot of the barley plant. Cats usually eat barley grass as it contains chlorophyll, which helps them detoxify their body systems and freshen their breathing. This barley grass acts as a healthy and safe addition to the cat's diet.
Wheat Grass
Wheat grass is one of the varieties of grasses on which cats feed. Wheat grass has many potential benefits, like helping enrich the cats and having a high fibre content, which helps them with weight loss and digestive aid.
Cats often enjoy munching on grass, but it is important to remember that all grass is not good for your feline friend. Pesticides, fertilisers, and other contaminants can be present on outdoor and home-grown grass, which can pose a potential health risk to your cats. So, in case your cat gets any side effects from these grasses, it's important to consult a vet before self-experimenting.
