Cat grass offers a safe and appealing natural treat for felines. It provides a beneficial supplement for indoor cats, satisfying their natural desire for greens.
What is Cat Grass and Why Offer It?
Cat grass is a mixture of young cereal grasses like wheat, oat, rye, and barley. Unlike outdoor lawn grass, which may contain harmful pesticides, cat grass is grown indoors specifically for pets. The roughage in cat grass aids digestion and helps with hairball expulsion, acting as a natural laxative. It also supplies essential nutrients such as folic acid, which supports hemoglobin production, and vitamins A and D. Offering cat grass can also serve as environmental enrichment, diverting cats from potentially toxic houseplants.
How to Grow Cat Grass
Growing cat grass begins with selecting the right container and growing medium. Choose a sturdy, shallow pot, ideally with drainage holes, to prevent tipping and ensure proper water management. Fill the container with a quality organic potting mix that drains well, avoiding those with added fertilizers that could be harmful to cats.
After preparing the soil, evenly sprinkle cat grass seeds over the surface. Cover the seeds lightly with about 0.6 centimeters (1/4 inch) of soil, or press them gently into the moist medium. Pre-soaking seeds in water for 4 to 6 hours before planting can accelerate germination. Keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated, misting with a spray bottle as needed.
For germination, place the planted container in a warm, semi-dark, or dark location, loosely covered with plastic wrap to maintain humidity. Ensure there is adequate air circulation to prevent mold development. Sprouts emerge within 2 to 3 days, and the grass is ready for consumption within 7 to 14 days, once it reaches a height of 7.5 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches).
Caring for Your Cat Grass
Once cat grass sprouts, ongoing care focuses on proper watering and light exposure. Water the grass when the top layer of soil begins to dry, about twice a week, but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and mold. After germination, cat grass thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Placing it near a bright window, but away from scorching direct sun that can burn the blades, is ideal.
If you notice harmless white or gray mold near the roots, it is due to high humidity or overwatering; improving air circulation and gently rinsing the grass can help. Yellowing grass can indicate overwatering, insufficient light, nutrient depletion, or simply that the plant is reaching the end of its lifespan. To maintain freshness and encourage new growth, trim the grass blades when they become too long, when they reach 10 to 12.5 centimeters (4 to 5 inches).
Tips for Feeding Cat Grass and Common Considerations
Introduce cat grass to your feline slowly. Cats can graze directly from the pot once the grass is 7.5 to 15 centimeters (3 to 6 inches) tall, or you can snip off blades and sprinkle them onto their food. While cat grass offers benefits, moderation is advisable.
Replace the cat grass plant every 2 to 3 weeks, or sooner if it wilts or turns yellow, as its nutritional value and appeal diminish. Growing multiple pots on a rotation can ensure a continuous supply of fresh grass.