Cat grass: why cats eat grass
Cat grass is just as essential in households with indoor cats as the litter box and food bowl. Although cats are carnivores, occasional consumption of grass is very important for them.
In the following, we will explain why this is the case and why you should provide cat grass to your feline friend.
Combatting Hairballs with Cat Grass
As you may know, cats are extremely clean animals. Especially indoor cats spend many hours each day grooming their fur with their rough tongues. Consequently, some hair ends up in their stomachs.
This hair cannot be digested. If it's just a small amount of hair, the cat can often eliminate it through feces. However, sometimes the loose hair accumulates in the stomach, forming a hairball that the cat needs to cough up. Chewing on cat grass helps the cat with this process.
Keep in mind that hairballs pose a serious risk to your cat's health. They can irritate the stomach, affect digestion, and cause blockages. In the worst-case scenario, hairballs can lead to intestinal obstruction, which can be acutely life-threatening for cats.
While outdoor cats can easily find grass to chew on during their ventures, indoor cats don't have that opportunity. To prevent health issues due to hairballs, it is important to provide cat grass that your feline friend can access as needed.
Which Grasses are Suitable as Cat Grass?
The term "cat grass" is not specific to a particular plant but refers to various grasses that are suitable for cats. Besides Cyperus grass, sprouts of different grains such as wheat, oats, or rye are popular choices.
- Cyperus Grass: Cats usually accept and tolerate Cyperus grass well. However, its stalks can be quite firm and sharp, which may cause cuts while chewing.
- Grain Sprouts: The stalks of grain sprouts are particularly soft and highly appreciated by most cats. They are therefore a great choice for cat grass if you prefer not to use Cyperus grass.
Are There Risks Associated with Cat Grass?
Some people advise against the use of cat grass, suggesting that cats could injure themselves or that the stalks could get stuck in their digestive tract. These concerns are generally unfounded, and the associated risks are minimal.
Nevertheless, there are alternatives to cat grass that you can offer your feline companion. For example, many cats enjoy the small leaves of Callisia repens (Turtle Vine), a popular houseplant among cat owners.
Of course, when buying alternatives to cat grass, make sure to avoid choosing plants that are toxic to cats, as they could seriously harm your feline friend.
Buying or Growing Cat Grass?
You can buy pots of cat grass inexpensively at hardware stores and garden centers. Alternatively, you can obtain seeds and grow cat grass yourself, which is usually quite easy and should not pose significant challenges even for inexperienced gardeners. However, buying mature plants is less time-consuming.
Supporting Your Cat's Grooming Routine
The swallowing and regurgitation of hair cannot be completely avoided. It is a normal behavior for your cat. However, you can and should support your feline friend's grooming routine. This is especially important during shedding periods, as a significant amount of hair is shed and ingested during that time.
By brushing your cat's fur daily, you can remove loose hair. Additionally, this stimulates blood circulation, which can promote the growth of a new coat.
Furthermore, through your grooming ritual, you strengthen the bond with your cat. After all, there is likely no cat that does not enjoy being the center of attention and receiving undivided attention from their owner.
Nutrients for a Healthy, Dense Coat
In addition to grooming with a brush or comb, it is essential to ensure that your cat receives optimal nutrition, particularly during shedding periods. High-quality cat food is indispensable.
Additionally, supplementing with Shiimun Skin can be beneficial. This easily digestible supplement consists of carefully selected natural ingredients such as shiitake mushrooms and brewer's yeast. Thanks to its special composition, Shiimun Skin provides your cat with numerous valuable nutrients to support a dense, shiny coat.
Cat Grass - Our Conclusion
As you can see, cat grass is very important for the well-being of your feline friend. It helps your cat eliminate swallowed hair and prevents health issues associated with the formation of hairballs.
If your cat is strictly an indoor cat, make sure to provide fresh cat grass at all times. Support your feline companion's grooming routine and ensure optimal nutrition through a balanced diet.
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