Cats and plants

If cats are carnivores, then why do they seem to so enjoy the "greener" side of life? Scientists don't all agree on why companion felines seek out and eat plants and grass; some say it aids digestion, for example, while others maintain they simply like the taste. Whatever the reason, it does seem to be a common feline pastime. A study conducted by Cornell University's Animal Behavior Clinic found that 36 percent of 122 cats were found to snack on houseplants.

Forbidden flora can create sick cats

But in addition to the unauthorized pruning of your plants, your cat could potentially become sick from ingesting certain forbidden flora. Many popular houseplants and flowering plants can be dangerous, even deadly, to your pet. Although not a complete list, some of the major offenders are:

• Aloe vera
• Amaryllis
• Azalea
• Corn plant
• Many ivies
• Members of the lily family
• Philodendron

Ingestion of these plants can cause a variety of symptoms, from mild stomach upset to, in some cases, kidney failure and death. If you suspect that your cat has ingested a poisonous plant, immediately contact your veterinarian.

Toxic vs. non-toxic plants

We know your cat is smart, but she probably can't tell the difference between toxic and non-toxic plants. For this reason, we urge you to keep all dangerous plants out of her reach. Or better yet, just give them away to a plant-friendly, non-cat household.

It's easy going green (with a little planning, of course)

Fortunately for all the foliage-crazy felines out there, there is a safe way to satisfy your cat's cravings. Pick up a cat grass kit, available at many pet supply stores. Some come already sprouted, while others contain soil and seeds for you to grow from scratch. Most contain wheat grass, but we've also seen barley and flax. We don't recommend buying flats of grass from your local nursery or home and garden store unless they have been organically grown. The pesticides and fertilizers used by many nurseries can be harmful to your cat. For this same reason, please don't offer your kitty a chunk of your lawn to chomp on unless the grass is chemical- and pesticide-free.

Proper digestion

As your pet doesn't have the digestive enzymes to break down raw plant matter, it's important to note that even these cat-friendly grasses can cause vomiting. Some smart cookies even make the association between vomiting and fresh greens, and these pets will actively seek them out in order to alleviate tummy upset. If you're growing your own, you'll probably want to keep a supply of paper towels and some spot cleaner nearby.

If your cat's got major plant-eating tendencies, you might try giving her some fresh alfalfa sprouts, spinach, steamed or grated carrots, cantaloupe balls or steamed broccoli and green beans. (Hard to believe your little obligate carnivore would crave these, but some kitties do!) Introduce these foods one at a time, and offer small amounts to determine if she likes them and if they agree with her.