If you have a ragdoll cat, you may be wondering if it’s okay to let them eat grass.
After all, cats are natural hunters (ragdolls, not so much) and many of them enjoy grazing on grass.
While ragdolls are premodinantly indoors cats, they do enjoy playing around outside if you let them, so it’s definitely possibly they’ll nibble on plants while they’re out there.
So, can ragdoll cats eat grass?
The short answer is yes, ragdoll cats can eat grass. In fact, there are many benefits to letting your ragdoll cat graze on grass. Grass is a natural source of vitamins and minerals, and it can also help with digestion. While grass shouldn’t be a regular part of your ragdoll’s diet, it won’t usually cause harm.
If your ragdoll cat does eat grass, it is important to monitor them closely.
Some cats may vomit or have an upset stomach after consuming grass, so it is important to make sure they are not experiencing any adverse effects.
This usually happens when we let our ragdoll, Poppie, into the backyard – she’ll eat grass, only to throw it back up later and then go about things as usual.
If your ragdoll cat has persistent problems after eating grass, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian.
Should ragdoll cats eat grass?
Ultimately, it’s up to the owner to decide whether their ragdoll cat should eat grass or not. If you do decide to let your ragdoll cat eat grass, it’s important to monitor them closely and make sure they are not experiencing any adverse effects such as vomiting.
There are a few things you should keep in mind if you’re planning on letting your ragdoll cat graze on grass:
- Firstly, make sure the grass is fresh and free of pesticides or other chemicals. This is very important as these substances are poisonous to pets and can make your ragdoll extremely sick if consumed.
- Secondly, if your cat starts vomiting after eating grass, make sure you monitor them closely. If the vomiting is prolonged, or your cat doesn’t immediately recover, you should seek medical help right away.
- Lastly, while grazing on grass is perfectly safe for most cats, some may be allergic to it. If you notice your cat sneezing or scratching after eating grass, they may be allergic and you should consult with a veterinarian if symptoms worsen.
When it boils down to it, some ragdoll cats may enjoy eating grass and find it nutritious, while others may vomit or have an upset stomach after consuming grass.
It is up to you, as the owner, to decide whether eating grass is best for your cat or not.
Personally, from my own experience, I wouldn’t recommend it – any nutritional value your ragdoll may extract from grass is certainly not outweighed by how sick it can make them.
Why do ragdoll cats eat grass?
There’s a number of reasons why your ragdoll cat may enjoy eating grass. Cats are natural scavengers and may see grass as an easy way to get some nutrients in their diet. Grass also acts as a natural laxative, which can help your cat pass hairballs more easily. Your ragdoll may also just eat grass out of curiosity.
Another possible reason could be that they are seeking out nutrients that they are not getting from their regular diet – after all, grass is a good source of fiber and chlorophyll, which can help with digestion.
Then again, some cats also seem to enjoy the taste of grass, and may simply eat it for pleasure – this is definitely the reason our ragdoll, Poppie, nibbles on grass when we let her outside.
We’ll always spot her sniffing and pawing at long blades of grass before chewing on it.
If you are concerned about your cat eating grass, you can talk to your veterinarian to see if there are any nutritional deficiencies in their diet that could be addressed.
You can also try growing grass indoors in a pot, or offering them chew toys or catnip instead.
If your ragdoll is eating large amounts of grass or vomiting frequently, this could be a sign of an underlying health condition and you should take them to the vet for a check-up.
Can eating grass make my ragdoll cat sick?
Yes, it is possible for ragdoll cats to get sick from eating grass. Some cats may vomit or have an upset stomach after consuming grass, so it is important to make sure they are not experiencing any adverse effects.
If you think your ragdoll cat has eaten grass, it is important to monitor them closely and make sure they are not experiencing any adverse effects.
If symptoms do not subside, or if you notice your cat behaving sluggishly or guarded against pats or belly rubs, it may be wise to seek some medical attention.
Final message
Ragdoll cats have a habit of eating grass when let outside, and they often do it for one or more of the following reasons: to help with digestion, because they’re lacking in certain nutrients, or simply because they’re curious or like the smell.
No matter why your ragdoll cat eats grass, as long as they’re not doing it excessively and seem healthy otherwise, there’s no need to worry.
But if you notice changes in your ragdoll’s behaviour – like if they start vomiting after eating grass – it’s a good idea to visit your vet if symptoms don’t improve as it may indicate an underlying health condition.
