Have you noticed your dog or cat has started eating grass?
You let them outside, and the next thing you know, they’re munching away like a cow!
Many pet owners take this as a sign their beloved fur baby may be ill.
And although a trip to the vet may be worth it, there are some less sinister reasons why your dog or cat may have started eating grass.
This blog will explain why cats or dogs eat grass, whether it’s safe, and when to visit your vet for a checkup.
Why does a cat eat grass?
Your cat may be eating grass for a variety of reasons. Here are the top 3 reasons:
Hairball removal
Cats love grooming themselves. All this licking of loose hair means they swallow quite a bit!
You’ve probably heard your cat wrenching to try and cough up a hairball. When they can’t remove a hairball, cats eat grass, which induces vomiting. When they vomit, they can remove the stuck hairball so they feel much better.
Cats love to chew
Although they’re not big chewers like dogs, cats may love the feeling of chewing on grass. They may be bored and looking for something new to try or enjoy a texture different from chewing their usual dry or wet food. Grass is often damp or moist, so it may be their way of chewing something soft if you only feed them dry food.
It helps with digestion
You’ve probably never thought about it much, but grass is high in fibre! This
added fibre can help your cat’s digestion. Grass is also a natural laxative, so if your cat eats grass, it may indicate that they’re constipated. A bit of grass isn’t harmful and is an excellent way of keeping your cat’s stomach happy and healthy.
Why does a dog eat grass?
Like a cat, your dog may be eating grass for many reasons. Here are the top 3.
Your dog likes it
Dogs eat just about anything, so grass isn’t the exception! You may notice they eat it more during certain times of the year, such as in winter when it’s dewy and cold. Or they may even be looking for extra treats left by the visiting local possums! Many dogs eat grass purely because they love the taste or the texture.
It helps with digestion
Grass is high in fibre and, therefore, great for your dog’s digestive system. Grass keeps harmful bacteria at bay and can help with constipation. Despite common belief, dogs won’t eat grass to vomit (most won’t even vomit). If your dog is showing signs of discomfort along with eating grass, it's time to visit your vet to check for underlying health problems.
It’s a behavioural issue
Your dog may be eating grass purely out of boredom. If it’s been left outside all day and has run out of things to entertain it or food, it may turn to grass. To avoid excess grass eating from boredom, leave your dog loads of chew toys when you head out and take them for a walk to burn off some energy.
Is it safe for your dog or cat to eat grass?
Generally, it’s safe for your dog or cat to eat grass if it’s natural and hasn’t been treated with pesticides, lawn feeders and the like. Here are some tips:
Avoid letting them eat grass in parks, as you don’t know if it’s been treated
Monitor their intake and look for signs of excessive vomiting or diarrhoea,
which may indicate a more significant issue (or too much grass!)
Buy indoor cat grass that you can grow yourself inside and let your cat nibble
away on that during the day
Should I take my dog or cat to the vet if they eat grass?
If you’re concerned about how much grass your dog or cat is eating (especially if it’s a new habit and they can’t get enough), it’s best to visit your local vet for a checkup.
They can perform blood tests to determine if your pet lacks vitamins from its diet (which can often be the case).
Eating grass usually indicates a lack of fibre, so your vet may recommend a high- fibre diet to help stabilise your pet’s digestive system. Fibre is essential to keep harmful bacteria at a minimum level to prevent your dog or cat’s stomach from becoming upset and causing vomiting or diarrhoea.
Is your dog eating grass because it’s bored?
Let me help bust that boredom with a walk during the day!
Rather than worrying that your dog is bored or overeating grass, book a walk and give your dog a fun distraction during their day. I can also pop over and give your dog or cat some attention during the day, topping up food and water bowls to ensure they have everything they need.
You can see all of my services here. Booking dog walking is easy using my online booking form. And here are a couple of my other blogs you may be interested in reading:
Until next time, pat your fur babies for me!
PS: If your dog or cat loves grass, I’d love for you to share your insights with our pet- loving community. Please post your thoughts in the comments below.
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