Can dogs or cats eat grass?
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Can dogs eat grass?
Is your dog chowing down on grass? While many people assume that dogs eat grass when they are feeling sick or experiencing gastrointestinal issues, some research suggests that this may not always be the case.
Some experts believe that dogs may simply enjoy the taste of grass or find it satisfying to chew on. Additionally, grass contains fibre, which can aid in digestion and promote healthy bowel movements.
However, it is important to note that not all types of grass are safe for dogs to consume. Some varieties could contain harmful chemicals or pesticides if they have been treated with these substances. In general, large quantities of any plant material could potentially cause digestive upset or other health problems, so watch your pup closely when they're noshing on their "salad".
If your dog eats grass and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, dog insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.
Can dogs eat...
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Can cats eat grass?
Good news: it's safe for cats to eat grass in moderation! (We wrote an article about cats eating grass, so you're not the only owner out there with this question.)
While we're not 100% sure why cats nosh on the green stuff, it may actually have some health benefits. Grass contains fibre, which helps with digestion and can help prevent hairballs from forming in a cat's stomach. In addition, chewing on the blades of grass may help clean a cat's teeth and freshen their breath.
But not all grasses are safe to eat, particularly if they've been treated with pesticides or poisons. Ultimately, as long as your cat has access to safe and non-toxic varieties of grass and doesn't overdo it on consumption, there shouldn't be any issues with allowing them this natural behaviour.
If your cat eats grass and is showing signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, reach out to your veterinarian immediately. If they require veterinary care related to eating unsafe foods, cat insurance may help cover the cost of treatment.
Can cats eat...
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Information purposes only
The suggestions offered here are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for pet-specific advice from your veterinarian. Never disregard your vet’s recommendations, or delay in acting on them, based on something you have read on this site. Regardless of how a food is rated here, any food that you give your pet can pose potential health risks, including allergic reactions, choking, or other health conditions such as bloat. Always monitor your pet while they’re eating, and never introduce a new food into your pet’s diet without first consulting your veterinarian.
Pet poison emergency protocol
If your pet is acting sick, call your regular veterinarian immediately. If your regular veterinarian is closed, call a nearby on-call veterinarian, animal urgent care, or veterinary emergency hospital. If your pet is not acting sick but you think they may have been exposed to a poison, call the Animal Poison Line (01202 50 9000).
Food safety statuses
Could be given almost daily without harm
Not toxic, but should not be given regularly
Toxic or simply too risky to give to your pet