Why Cats Eat Grass: Surprising Study Reveals the Real Reason

A Common Yet Mysterious Behavior

For years, cat owners have believed that their feline companions eat grass as a way to settle their stomachs and induce vomiting. If you’ve ever seen your cat munch on grass only to throw up moments later, it seems logical to assume they do this to rid their system of something unpleasant. However, a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis, sheds new light on this longstanding belief.

What Science Says About Cats Eating Grass

Researchers conducted a survey of over 1,000 cat owners, asking them to observe their cats’ grass-eating habits. Here’s what they found:

Only about 11% of studied cats completely avoided eating grass.

A staggering 91% of the cats surveyed ate grass regularly.

Despite popular belief, only around 25% of cats threw up after consuming grass.

This suggests that grass-eating is not primarily a method for inducing vomiting or relieving an upset stomach.

The Evolutionary Perspective

So, if not for vomiting, why do cats eat grass? Researchers suggest that this behavior may be an evolutionary trait. In the wild, felines frequently consume plant material to help with digestion and clear their system of parasites. While today’s domestic cats don’t usually suffer from the same parasites as their ancestors, the instinct remains.

Eating Grass Might Have Benefits

Scientists believe that grass consumption may aid digestion and maintain gastrointestinal health. Some theories propose that chewing on grass helps stimulate muscle activity in the digestive tract, keeping everything moving properly.

Is Grass Safe for Cats?

For the most part, eating grass is harmless. However, if you want to allow your cat to munch on grass, make sure it’s free from harmful pesticides or chemicals. Many cat owners opt for cat-friendly grasses like wheatgrass, oat grass, or specially grown cat grass, which are available at pet stores.

When Should You Be Concerned?

While eating grass is normal behavior, there are times when you should monitor your cat for signs of potential issues:

Frequent vomiting: If your cat is consistently vomiting after eating grass, it may indicate health issues that require veterinary attention.

Chewing on toxic plants: Some common household plants can be toxic to cats, such as lilies and ivy.

Changes in eating habits: If your cat suddenly starts eating more grass than usual, it could signal an underlying health condition.

Final Thoughts

The study from UC Davis suggests that cats eat grass not necessarily to vomit but as an instinctive behavior. While it may seem like a random act, it’s likely a trait inherited from their wild ancestors. As long as your cat is eating safe, pesticide-free grass and isn’t showing signs of distress, there’s no harm in letting them indulge in their grassy cravings.

If you’ve noticed your cat frequently munching on plants, consider providing safe, cat-friendly options to keep them happy and healthy!