In Johannesburg parks and Cape Town gardens, a familiar scene is often observed: a dog, burying its nose in the ground, happily chewing on grass. While the owner stands nearby, frantically checking the internet to see if this is a sign of an urgent medical situation (which it usually is not).
According to the natural food brand Forthglade, search queries such as 'why is my dog eating grass' have reached an annual peak, showing a monthly volume of 20,000 searches and a 177% increase over the last three months.
Veterinary doctor and Forthglade brand ambassador, Dr. James Greenwood, notes that this habit occurs much more often than most owners realize. There is a common misconception that dogs intentionally eat grass when they feel unwell or are trying to get sick, but Greenwood reassures that eating grass is a very common behavior among many dogs.
The reasons can range from obvious to deeply rooted in nature. Most often, dogs simply enjoy the taste of grass, especially in spring and summer when it is fresher and greener. Although this observation is characteristic of the Northern Hemisphere, South African dogs in mid-July experience winter dormancy (though Kikuyu, at least, has the virtue of turning brown).
Some dogs exhibit an instinctive urge to chew, which is deeply ingrained in their DNA, reminiscent of wild ancestors. Others may be seeking additional fiber, as dogs are omnivores and require plant matter to aid digestion. Greenwood advises adding digestive powder to the dog's diet if grass eating becomes a new habit.
There is also an explanation related to boredom. Dr. Greenwood links this to a possible lack of mental stimulation or boredom, which might prompt a dog to dig and eat grass. He suggests using environmental enrichment methods, such as food puzzles, board games like hide-and-seek, longer walks in new places, or socialization at a dog center.
The main concern arises when the dog subsequently vomits the grass onto a favorite carpet. Although there is no conclusive evidence linking grass eating to stomach problems, Greenwood points out that some dogs do vomit afterward, and this can lead to worm infestation. If this happens frequently or is accompanied by noticeable weight loss, a veterinarian should be visited to rule out lung issues and other hidden diseases.
Nevertheless, if the dog is generally healthy, grass eating is likely just a hobby. Greenwood concludes: 'As long as your dog is fine and shows no other signs of illness, there is no need to worry too much.'
A Durbanville resident faced potential fines under the Cape Town City By-law on animal keeping after receiving a notice for feeding birds directly from the ground in her garden.
The situation arose after a neighbour filed a complaint, deeming the woman's actions a threat to health and the environment. The woman, whose name is known to Cape Argus, publicly posted the received notice on the STOP CoCT Facebook page. She stated that she had environmental inspectors and that the neighbour acted out of malice, trying to prevent her from feeding birds that came into her garden.
The woman told Cape Argus that she does not own birds, but merely feeds garden birds and pigeons. She also noted that she cannot discuss the matter as it is in the hands of her lawyer. According to Frances Hyam, a member of the municipal council for public services and health, the notice was issued to prevent further public health and environmental issues.
The specific case involved the uncontrolled scattering of bird feed on the property, which already had other identified ecological health problems, including rodents. Environmental Health Practitioners (EHP) issued the notice to stop the deterioration of the situation. They emphasized that their duty is to protect and promote public safety by acting against individuals or situations posing a risk to the well-being of others.
The notice itself stated that an inspection conducted on June 1, 2026, showed feeding birds directly from the ground, which is a violation of Section 28 (2) of the By-law (Animal Keeping By-law 2021). The notice required the violations to be rectified within 21 days and to cease feeding any wild animals not kept in captivity. Failure to comply could lead to a conviction and a fine.
This issue caused a stir in the city. Brett Herron, Secretary General of the GOOD Party and candidate for Mayor of Cape Town, warned that 'if you feed birds, you risk getting fined.' He stated that 'the Orwellian over-regulation of Cape Town has taken the next step, telling residents they can no longer feed wild birds in their own gardens,' adding that 'only cages qualify. Free birds are apparently a by-law violation. And if you feed these birds, you risk getting fined.'
In response to Herron's statement, Hyam called it 'an unfortunate attempt to deliberately spread disinformation and cause outrage where there is none.' Allan Perrins, Communications Manager for the South African Animal Protection Society, noted that this is done to protect wildlife and the public to prevent the spread of diseases. He advised that the most effective way to support wild birds is by planting local trees and shrubs that provide natural food, shelter, and nesting opportunities throughout the year, instead of artificial feeding.
The notice also contained information that if supplementary feeding is provided, only suitable food such as quality wild bird seeds, fresh fruits, and vegetables should be offered. Bread, dairy products, processed foods, salty snacks, and other unsuitable food can cause nutrient deficiencies or illness. Bird feeders and waterers must also be cleaned regularly to reduce the spread of disease. Municipal bylaws prohibiting feeding wild birds directly on the ground are intended to protect both wildlife and the public, as feeding on the ground attracts rodents and other pests, increases the risk of disease transmission, and can alter the natural behaviour of wild animals. A representative from Cape of Good Hope SPCA, Belinda Abraham, clarified that bird feeders are specifically excluded from the by-law concerning the keeping of wild animals.
