Not necessarily an upset stomach
Proposed explanations include normal inherited behaviour and effects on the digestive tract. Surveys suggest many cats show no sign of illness before eating plants and do not vomit every time afterwards, so “they eat grass to make themselves sick” is too simple.
The plant matters more than the theory
Many houseplants are toxic to cats, and lilies can cause life-threatening kidney injury. Outdoor grass may carry pesticides, fertilisers or parasites. If you offer cat grass, use a cat-safe species from a reliable source and keep toxic plants inaccessible.
When to ask a veterinarian
Contact a veterinarian or animal poison service promptly after possible toxic-plant exposure. Repeated vomiting, loss of appetite, drooling, weakness, diarrhoea or frequent compulsive plant eating also needs professional advice.
Sources and further reading
- Characteristics of plant eating in domestic cats
- FDA: Lovely lilies and curious cats — a dangerous combination
Sources support the general information on this page. CatMind is an observation tool, not a veterinary diagnostic service.
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