Everyone knows that cats are carnivores. So why does your cat keep snacking on the houseplants? Some experts say greens help cats get rid of hairballs, others that cats crave the fiber and moisture. There may be a nutritional component as well: when feeding on prey, a cat will eat the intestines first, where its likely to find plant matter. But regardless of the reason for the craving, plants can prove a serious danger to cats. Many common houseplants, such as lilies, 288 asparagus ferns, and foxglove, are poisonous. Outdoors, a cat may eat grass or other plants contaminated by pesticides and fertilizer. An easy way to keep your cat satisfied and safe is to grow grass indoors for them. “Cat grass” is widely available as seed in pet stores and nurseries. Varieties such as oats, barley, wheat, and rye grow quickly and well in a sunny window or under grow lights. Wait until the grass is at least two inches high before offering it to your cat. Limit your cats snacking to a few minutes a day at first so its digestion can adjust. If you find your cat “binging” and then vomiting, continue to restrict its access to the grass. Otherwise, set the grass in an easy-to-reach spot, and let your cat “graze” whenever it likes.
