Eating grass is common in pets, and it doesn't necessarily mean there's something wrong – NOLA.com

Sometimes dogs eat grass out of boredom. If that happens, try playing with them in the grass instead.
Sometimes dogs eat grass out of boredom. If that happens, try playing with them in the grass instead.
Ever noticed the family dog or cat eating grass? Why do some animals do this? Are they hungry? Am I not feeding them enough? Could it be a medical issue? Do they have an upset stomach? Is it a lack of nutrition or something they are missing in their food?
Turns out, eating grass is very common among dogs and cats, and it usually does not mean there is a medical problem.
There are a variety of reasons why a dog might snack on grass. Some studies suggest that dogs eat grass because they do not feel well, while others say that eating grass is a way for dogs to improve digestion, deal with intestinal worms, or to fulfill an unmet nutritional need, such as a lack of fiber.
Dogs cannot digest grass, as they lack the enzymes needed to break it down. Therefore, there is little to no nutritional value in it for them. One theory for eating grass is that it may ease a feeling of nausea.
Still, some say it is just an act of boredom. If this seems to be the case, try redirecting with a game of fetch or taking the dog out for a walk to get some exercise .
If a nutritional issue is suspected, try switching to a diet high in fiber and see if the grass-grazing decreases.
Cats, however, are a different story. Eating grass may be beneficial to their health. Some studies suggest that grass serves as a natural laxative for cats and can help break down fur balls as they pass through the digestive track.
While most experts agree that the act of eating grass is not harmful, it is important to remember that if the lawn has been treated with a pesticide, fertilizer or some other chemical, that can be harmful if ingested by a pet.
Also, several plants are poisonous to pets, and it is important to keep potentially toxic plants away from areas that pets may frequent, especially if they are grass eaters. For a complete list of harmful plants, visit www.aspca.org.
Sometimes, eating grass, sticks or pine cones is just instinct. However, if a medical condition is suspected, make an appointment with the veterinarian to have the pet examined.
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer coordinator for Animal Rescue New Orleans, a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For more info on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org.
Purchases made via links on our site may earn us an affiliate commission
Traci D. Howerton is the volunteer coordinator for Animal Rescue New Orleans (ARNO), a nonprofit, volunteer-based, no-kill shelter. For topic suggestions, email [email protected] or for more info on ARNO, visit www.animalrescueneworleans.org.
{{description}}
Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.
News Tips:
[email protected]
Other questions:
[email protected]
Need help?

source