[opus (OP)]

Why does my cat eat pondweed, when he is very well fed, on Science Diet, twice a day?

[Evie]

There are a few different beliefs as to the genetic significance of why cats eat plants in addition to a normal diet. Cats are carnivores and can lack dietary fiber, which helps regulate their digestive system. Wild cats get this usually through the stomach contents of the prey animals that they eat, but will also supplement this by eating plants, usually grass. It is typical for housecats to eat grass or other plants (owner's should beware of having poisonous houseplants within reach of their cat).

Eating too much grass (or plant material) can make a cat vomit, and if this helps them regurgitate a hairball, then they will often continue the behavior to gain relief. Plant material can help them pass hairballs through their intestines, as well.

Cats will also eat plants that just simply taste good or that give them a chemical reaction, like catnip. Pondweed shouldn't have this effect, but it is tasty to a lot of waterfowl because of it's tender tubers and the small fruits that grow on the surface of the water.

I shouldn't worry about your cat eating the pondweed unless it is making him/her vomit. You can redirect your cat by providing cat grass. Here's a link to a product you can purchase (http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=13050/).

[blakestyger]

That's interesting Evie - is there a similar explanation for my dog eating grass? She often spends a few minutes 'grazing' at the start and end of her walks.

[opus (OP)]

Thankyou Evie- I have never seen my cat vomit after eating the pondweed. In fact, I've never witnessed it vomiting at all- maybe it's bunged up with pondweed!

[Evie]

Oh, it's probably passing it out the normal way.  [] []

[Make it Lady]

Are you sure it isn't a duck? My grandad bought a dog in a pub once which turned out to be a shetland pony.

[opus (OP)]

Best not to buy things in pubs I guess!!!  No, this cat's definitely a cat Make it lady.