Hello Spring! With the grass turning greener and flowers beginning to bloom, it’s the perfect time to think about what greenery is safe for your feline friends.
If you’ve ever wondered why your outdoor cat nibbles on grass when they venture outdoors—or why indoor cats seem determined to munch on your houseplants—you’re not alone. This behavior is common among cats, and thankfully, there’s a safe and easy way to satisfy their instincts: cat grass!
Cat grass is something my cat, Chester, LOVES. It’s a special treat that keeps him entertained and happy. Not only does Chester enjoy munching on his cat grass, but he also loves sticking his head down into the grass blades and nuzzling.
The good news is that it’s super cheap and easy to grow! In about a week, it’ll be tall enough for a grass-eating-free-for-all.
In this article, we’ll explore why cats eat grass, what cat grass is, the different types available, safety considerations, and provide a step-by-step guide to growing your own cat-friendly indoor garden.
Understanding Why Cats Eat Grass
If you’re unsure about your cat munching on grass, don’t be alarmed. According to veterinary medicine, eating grass provides several health benefits for cats.
Cat grass contains trace minerals, folic acid, and essential vitamins like A, B, and D, all of which support overall health. Folic acid, in particular, plays a key role in the production of hemoglobin, which helps oxygen circulate through your cat’s body.
Additionally, grass aids digestion by acting as a natural form of fiber. It helps keep the gastrointestinal tract moving smoothly, reducing issues like constipation and hairballs.
Some experts also believe that grass triggers vomiting, which can help cats expel indigestible matter or irritants from their stomachs.
While eating cat grass in moderation is beneficial, too much can lead to an upset stomach. This is because grass contains natural laxative properties that help your cat eliminate anything causing digestive discomfort.
Providing your feline friend with a safe, controlled source of cat grass ensures they get the nutrients and digestive support they need without the risk of consuming harmful outdoor plants or houseplants.
What Is Cat Grass and Why Your Cat Loves It
Cat grass typically refers to a variety of grasses that are safe for feline consumption. These grasses are non-toxic and easy to grow indoors, providing a safe way for your cat to indulge in their green munchies.
Different Types of Cat Grass
Not all cat grass is the same! Here are the most common varieties that cats enjoy:
- Wheat Grass (Triticum aestivum): The most popular type, wheatgrass is rich in nutrients like chlorophyll, vitamins, and antioxidants. It has a mild taste that many cats enjoy.
- Oat Grass (Avena sativa): Slightly sweeter in flavor, oat grass is high in fiber and aids in digestion.
- Barley Grass (Hordeum vulgare): This fast-growing variety has a tender texture and is packed with vitamins and minerals.
- Rye Grass (Lolium perenne): Often included in cat grass blends, rye grass has a soft texture and is a favorite among some cats.
- Blended Cat Grass Mixes: Many commercial cat grass kits combine a blend of grasses, offering variety and a well-rounded nutritional boost for your feline friend.
Choosing Safe and Healthy Cat Grass
Cat grass is safe for your feline friend, but it’s important to make sure it’s free from pesticides or chemicals. I always use organic soil and trust seeds from Botanical Interests, a brand I rely on for high-quality, untreated seeds.
When selecting cat grass, choose organic cat grass seeds specifically labeled for pet consumption.
Avoid using grass from your yard, as it may have been treated with fertilizers or pesticides that could be harmful to your cat.
As with anything new in your cat’s diet, keep an eye on them while they enjoy their cat grass. If you notice distress, be sure to contact your veterinarian.
A Step-by-Step Guide on Growing Cat Grass
Growing cat grass is a simple and rewarding endeavor. The following steps will help cat owners provide their cat with a fresh and healthy source of greens:
Choose the Right Seeds
Select cat grass seeds from a reputable source, ensuring they are labeled as safe for pets. You can often find cat grass seed packs at garden centers or your local pet store. Look for wheatgrass, oat, barley, or rye varieties—or a blend of these.
Prepare a Container
Use a shallow bowl or container with drainage holes to plant the seeds. Containers without drainage holes can also work as long as you avoid overwatering. Fill the container with cat-friendly regular potting soil.
Plant the Seeds
Sprinkle the dry seed evenly over the soil, pressing them lightly into the surface. Water the soil thoroughly.
I like to mist the soil with my spray bottle.
I have a cloche I put mine under to help provide adequate humidity for seed germination. Putting a piece of plastic wrap over the top and securing to the pot will achieve the same results.
Provide Adequate Light
Place the container in direct sunlight, in a sunny spot, such as a bright window, as cat grass requires natural light to thrive.
Water Regularly
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent mold growth. Again, I like to lightly mist the soil as needed to water.
Allow Growth
Cat grass typically sprouts within two to three days and will be tall enough for your cat to enjoy within 7 to 10 days.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have a safe and satisfying treat for your cat, allowing them to indulge in their natural instincts without any worries.
Final Thoughts
Growing cat grass is an easy, affordable way to keep your feline friend happy and healthy.
Not only does it provide essential nutrients and aid digestion, but it can also help freshen your cat’s breath and keep them from nibbling on houseplants.
Buying pre-grown cat grass from pet stores can be pricey, so growing your own saves less money in the long run.
Since Chester loves his grass so much, I always have a new batch growing in the wings, ready to replace his old one when it starts to wither. Whether you grow a single container or keep a steady rotation, your cat will appreciate the fresh, homegrown greens!
Bonus Content
Each post, I’ll include links to other articles I’ve written that relate to this topic (if available), so you can explore more helpful tips and ideas.
You’ll also find affiliate links for Amazon or Botanical Interests to help you find the tools and seeds you need.
Thimble & Tansy participates in several affiliate marketing programs. This means that if you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support the maintenance of the blog and allow us to continue creating content for our readers.
To make your homemade journey even more rewarding, I’ll share a freebie or two each month, whether it’s a printable guide, checklist, or another resource to keep you inspired.
Finally, I’ll list the resources I used to create this blog for those who want to learn more.
Affiliate Links
Freebies
Additional Resources
- Dr. Elsey’s: Growing Cat Grass and Catnip Indoors
- In Between We Garden: Cat Grass: A Purr-fectly Safe Treat for Your Feline Friend
- Instructables: How to Grow Cat Grass