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Why Your Cat Loves to Chew Grass (And Is It Safe?)

Rachel M.
by Rachel M.
Published:  February 17th, 2026

If you’ve ever caught your cat nibbling on grass, you might have wondered what was going on. The good news is that this behavior is actually pretty common.


Understanding why your cat enjoys chewing grass and knowing when it’s safe can help you make better choices for your pet’s health.


Disclosure: PetGuide may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cat chewing grass - image via Canva

Table of contents

1. Grass Can Help With Digestion

One of the most widely accepted reasons cats chew grass is to support their digestion.


Cats groom themselves frequently, which means they often swallow loose fur. That fur can sometimes build up in their stomach and lead to hairballs or mild digestive discomfort.


Eating grass can help stimulate the digestive system and may assist your cat in passing hair and other indigestible materials more easily.


Sometimes, chewing grass can also trigger vomiting, which might sound unpleasant, but it can help cats clear irritants from their stomach when needed.

2. Grass Provides Nutrients Cats Might Crave

Even though cats are obligate carnivores, they can still benefit from certain nutrients found in plants. Grass contains small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that may help support overall digestion and gut health.


Some experts believe cats may instinctively chew grass when their bodies need extra fiber or trace nutrients. It doesn’t replace their regular diet, but it can act as a natural supplement in small amounts.

Cat chewing grass - image via Canva

3. Chewing Grass Can Relieve Boredom

Sometimes, the reason is much simpler. Cats are curious creatures, and chewing grass can be entertaining. 


Providing safe grass options can give your cat a healthy outlet for this behavior. It can also serve as a form of enrichment, keeping them mentally stimulated and less likely to chew on unsafe household plants.

4. Is It Safe?

While many cats can safely chew grass, not all grass or plants are safe.


Grass treated with pesticides, fertilizers, or chemicals can be harmful and should always be avoided. Outdoor grass may also carry parasites or pollutants.


Offering pet-safe grass grown indoors is usually the safest option. Many pet stores sell grass kits designed specifically for cats. These allow your cat to enjoy the behavior without exposure to harmful substances.


You should also watch your cat after they eat grass. Occasional vomiting can be normal, but frequent vomiting or signs of illness should be checked by a vet.

The Cat Ladies Organic Cat Grass for Cats - image via Amazon

Final Thoughts

Chewing grass is a natural and often harmless behavior for many cats. It can help with digestion, provide small nutritional benefits, and relieve boredom.


The key is making sure the grass your cat has access to is safe and free from chemicals. By offering pet-friendly grass and keeping an eye on your cat’s behavior, you can support their instincts while protecting their health. 


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Rachel M.
Rachel M.

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