WHY DO CATS EAT GRASS

Ah, the age-old question of why our feline companions indulge in a spot of greenery! It's a curiosity that has perplexed the minds of scientists for quite some time. However, a recent investigation may have finally unravelled this peculiar habit. But before we delve into these novel findings, allow me to recount some of the more established theories surrounding this feline idiosyncrasy.

One long-held notion posits a nutritional imperative. It has been suggested that felines consume grass to supplement deficiencies in their diet, perhaps lacking certain vital nutrients or enzymes. While it is true that grass contains folic acid, the notion that cats possess an innate understanding of this need remains open to debate.

Another prevalent theory centres on the relief of gastric discomfort. We have all observed, I am sure, the subsequent regurgitation following a cat's verdant indulgence. This has led some to believe that cats possess an intuitive understanding of grass as an emetic, employing it strategically after consuming something disagreeable or when feeling generally unwell.

Furthermore, the possibility of a natural laxative effect has been considered. Grass, being rather fibrous, might indeed aid in easing constipation or facilitating the expulsion of those rather unpleasant hairballs.

However, recent research from the  University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine has shed new light on this behaviour. An online survey encompassing over a thousand cat owners, meticulously documenting their cats' proclivity for consuming grass and other flora, yielded some fascinating insights. The findings, presented at the annual gathering of the International Society for Applied Ethology in Bergen, Norway, during the summer of 2019, revealed that the consumption of plant material is remarkably common amongst our feline friends. Indeed, a significant 71 percent of the cats surveyed had nibbled on plants at least six times in their lives, with a substantial 61 percent having done so on ten or more separate occasions.

Intriguingly, the study also revealed that the vast majority of these botanical excursions – a remarkable 91 percent – were preceded by behaviour deemed normal, with no apparent signs of illness. Moreover, of all the cats observed to partake in plant matter, only approximately 27 percent exhibited frequent vomiting thereafter.
Based on these compelling results, the researchers have proposed a revised hypothesis. Rather than a self-medicating response to an upset stomach, they now surmise that this behaviour may be an instinctive act, serving to rid the animals of troublesome intestinal parasites. This is a behaviour observed in their wild carnivorous cousins, as well as in primates. The ingestion of vegetation may well trigger the digestive tract to physically expel these unwelcome inhabitants.

Regardless of the precise underlying motivation, it is clear that many cats do, with some regularity, partake in a grassy repast. This naturally leads one to question whether such behaviour should be a cause for concern.

The answer is nuanced. While grass itself is not inherently dangerous to felines – indeed, the right sort of grass can even be a perfectly safe and nutritious little snack – the potential danger lies in what may reside upon that verdant blade. Lawn fertilisers, weed killers, pesticides, and other chemical treatments commonly employed in our gardens can pose a significant threat to our feline companions, even in minuscule quantities.

Therefore, should your cat engage in a spot of lawn grazing, it would be prudent to observe them closely for any signs of ill health. This is particularly important if you employ any chemical treatments on your lawn, be it fertiliser, herbicides (weed killers), or pesticides.

Should your cat vomit after their grassy interlude, do make a mental note of the frequency. It would be wise to consult your veterinarian if the vomiting persists, or if they exhibit any other concerning symptoms such as diarrhoea, a loss of appetite, lethargy, seizures, tremors, foaming at the mouth, or any other indication of illness.
Finally, while grass itself may not be a cause for alarm, it is crucial to remember that many other plants are highly toxic to cats. Felines with a penchant for grass might also be tempted to sample our houseplants and floral arrangements, which can, regrettably, have fatal consequences.

Some plants cause mild issues in cats, like mouth irritation or stomach upset; others can cause severe vomiting and diarrhoea, seizures, kidney failure, and death.
Many plants and flowers are toxic to cats, but some of the most dangerous include all types of lilies, autumn crocus, azaleas, rhododendrons, oleander, cyclamen, and daffodils. Keep only non-toxic plants, greenery, and flowers in your home.
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If you suspect your cat may have eaten part of a toxic plant or flower, or even just licked water from the vase of a dangerous plant, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison-control hotline immediately.