Why Do Cats Eat Grass?
QUICK ANSWER
Cats eat grass because of instinct, not because something is wrong. Grass consumption may help induce vomiting to clear indigestible material like hairballs, provide trace nutrients and folic acid, or simply satisfy a natural craving. Most cats that eat grass are perfectly healthy. The main concern is ensuring the grass hasn't been treated with pesticides or chemicals.
Your obligate carnivore is out there munching on grass like a tiny cow. It seems contradictory, but grass eating is one of the most common and most natural behaviors in domestic cats.
Why would a carnivore eat grass?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need meat to survive, but that doesn't mean they never eat plant material. Studies of wild and feral cats consistently find grass and plant matter in their stomach contents. A 2019 study presented at the International Society for Applied Ethology found that 71% of cats observed were seen eating grass at least 6 times, and most of those cats showed no signs of illness before or after. The behavior appears to be instinctive rather than driven by nutritional deficiency or stomach upset.
Does it help with hairballs?
This is one of the most popular theories. The idea is that grass triggers vomiting, which helps cats expel hairballs and other indigestible material from the stomach. Some cats do vomit after eating grass, which supports this theory. However, the same study found that over 70% of cats were never observed vomiting after eating grass, which suggests that clearing the stomach isn't always the purpose. Another theory is that the fiber in grass helps move material through the digestive tract without vomiting.
Is it safe?
Grass itself is safe for cats. The concern is what might be on the grass. Lawns treated with pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers can be toxic. If your cat goes outdoors and eats grass, make sure your yard is chemical-free in the areas they access. For indoor cats, cat grass kits (typically wheatgrass, oat grass, or barley grass) are a safe, pesticide-free option that lets your cat satisfy the craving without any risk. These are available at most pet stores and are easy to grow at home.
When should I worry?
If your cat is eating grass obsessively (constantly seeking it out, eating large amounts), vomiting frequently after eating it, or showing other signs of GI distress, it's worth a vet visit to check for underlying digestive issues. But for the vast majority of cats, occasional grass snacking is completely normal and nothing to be concerned about.
Cats eat grass because their instincts tell them to, not because something is wrong. It's one of the most universal feline behaviors across wild and domestic cats. Keep the grass chemical-free, consider a cat grass kit for indoor cats, and let them graze.
More Cat Health Questions
Mystery Question?
Mystery Question?
Mystery Question?