Cats and the Many Benefits of Grass

Even though cats are obligate carnivores who don’t need plants to survive, grass can have many health benefits for felines, from relieving constipation and tummy aches to acting as a natural stress reliever and providing sensory enrichment. 

Nutrition

Certain types of grass - usually alfalfa, wheat, barley, rye, or oat - provide nutrients that may be lacking in a cat's standard diet, including micronutrients and vitamins A, B, and D. Grass also contains folic acid, which aids with digestion, cellular growth, and the production of hemoglobin, and chlorophyll, which can help combat minor medical issues and infections. 

When eaten in moderation - treats shouldn’t comprise more than 10% of a cat’s daily intake - eating grass has many benefits for your cat. Of course, you need to ensure that the grass hasn’t been treated with any pesticides or herbicides. 

Digestion

Cats lack the enzymes needed to digest grass so typically after eating it, they vomit or have a bowel movement. As such, grass helps to clear out their systems. This is beneficial if they have ingested something their bodies cannot properly digest like hairballs, feathers, or bones. 

Dental Health

Chewing on grass can act as a natural toothbrush for cats because the abrasive texture of the grass helps to remove plaque and tartar from their teeth. Chlorophyll can also help to keep a cat’s breath fresh and clean.

Hydration

Grass has a high water content and the moisture in the grass can improve a cat’s overall hydration, which is essential for kidney and urinary health, particularly in cats who don’t enjoy drinking water. 

Enrichment and Stress Relief

Grass is a great source of enrichment and sensory stimulation for cats. Playing with grass can alleviate boredom and stress and can be a self-soothing behavior that helps them relax, especially for indoor cats that don't have the opportunity to experience the great outdoors safely. It’s also an ideal way for cats to engage in an instinctual activity.