Why do cats eat grass? Most people do not think of cats as herbivores, considering the fact that their diet usually consists of meat or meat based foods. If you are a cat owner, you are likely aware that cats love a grass snack on occasion.
Even though cats seem to relish their greens, it is hard to tell if they want to eat grass and other plants because they taste good, or if it helps their digestive system. It is a fact that cats and dogs will eat grass to induce regurgitation of whatever is making them feel sick. This may be nature’s way of helping them avoid a serious problem caused by spoiled or toxic substances they have ingested.
Cat Grass
If you are like most cat owners, you also have houseplants in your home. This can present a problem if your cat does not have some grass available, because he or she may decide to sample whatever greens are within reach. Some houseplants are poisonous, and can make your kitty very sick or even be fatal.
For this reason, it is a good idea to grow a small container of grass especially for your cat. Most cat grass is actually wheat grass, and is very easy to grow in the small container provided. Some containers include wheat, rye, barley and oat seeds for discriminating cats who like some variety.
Growing some grass for your cat
Growing some grass for your cat is really quite simple. Cat grass can be purchased in disposable plastic trays, or you can purchase an attractive wood container that you can reseed when necessary. You should allow the grass to grow to a height of four inches before serving it to your pet.
The grass seed is inexpensive, grows fast and the grass will usually regrow just like your lawn. Cats typically only eat a small amount of the grass, but some cats will overeat or binge on the grass. This can cause him to regurgitate, and may indicate a digestive problem. If this happens often, a visit to your veterinarian to rule out a possible serious health issue is probably a good idea.
Proponents of cat grass state that it adds vitamins and folic acid to the diet of their cat, and also increases roughage that can help prevent hairballs. Some people also report fresher breath for their pets. Whether cats eat grass because they enjoy it, or if their instinct tells them they need it is unimportant. Many cat owners provide it for their cat simply because it is an easy way to keep their pet happier and healthier.
Choosing Healthy Cat Food
The food you choose to give your cat has a huge impact on its health. It affects their immune system, quality of life, and even their behavior. Most people do not know how to tell the difference between low quality and high quality cat food. It is important to check the cat food’s ingredients to make sure you know exactly what you are feeding your kitty.
Low quality cat food is made up of ingredients such as corn, by-products, dyes, filler grains, and unhealthy preservatives. They are designed to fill your cat up but do not offer any nutritional value. The grains are what causes a cat to become obese and then makes it easier for them to get diabetes, have kidney failure, or thyroid problems. That is why it is essential to find cat food that is grain free.
High quality organic cat food is made up of higher quality natural ingredients and less fillers. Cats are natural carnivores and that is why it is important to purchase cat food with meat and proteins as ingredients. Proteins include USDA chicken, turkey, lamb, and salmon. Other ingredients to look for include whole grains such as brown rice, barley, sunflower oil, eggs, potatoes, and vitamins C and E.
Wet cat food is important to incorporate into your cat’s diet. Cats are designed to get the majority of their water intake through their foods. Cats do not drink enough water on their own which can cause them to develop urinary tract infections. By feeding cats wet food, you are ensuring that they will stay hydrated.
Organic cat food is essential for a cat’s health. It is more expensive but by taking care of your cat, you are eliminating the cost of large veterinary bills which can add up in the long run. The proper food and cat supplies can ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life. It shows that you care for your cat by giving it the very best.