Kattengras, also known as cat grass, is a safe and beneficial green option cultivated for domestic felines. It’s a mixture of cereal grasses, commonly grown from seeds like wheat, barley, oats, or rye. Unlike outdoor lawn grass, which may contain harmful pesticides or chemicals, kattengras is typically grown indoors, providing a clean, controlled, and accessible source of vegetation for pets.
Benefits of Kattengras for Cats
Cats, despite being obligate carnivores, instinctively consume plant material. Kattengras offers several advantages for their well-being, primarily aiding digestion. Its fiber content promotes regular bowel movements and supports gut health. The roughage helps move hairballs and other indigestible items through the digestive tract, preventing hairball formation and reducing constipation. It can also trigger a vomiting reflex, allowing cats to expel unwanted substances.
Beyond digestive support, kattengras provides various nutrients that contribute to a cat’s health. It contains essential vitamins, including A, B, C, D, and E, along with folic acid and trace minerals. Folic acid is particularly beneficial as it aids in the production of hemoglobin, a protein vital for oxygen transport in the blood. Chlorophyll in cat grass is also believed to offer benefits such as supporting hemoglobin production and potentially helping with pain and infections.
Growing and Caring for Kattengras
Cultivating kattengras at home is straightforward. The first step is choosing the right seeds, which are readily available at pet stores or gardening centers, often in organic, non-GMO varieties.
Wheatgrass: Recommended for ease of growth and rich nutrient content.
Oat grass: Known for its sweeter taste and protein.
Barley grass: Offers antioxidants and is easy for cats to chew.
Rye grass: Durable with strong roots.
For planting, select a shallow, heavy container that is difficult for a cat to tip over. Fill it with an organic potting mix. Scatter the seeds densely on the soil surface, then cover them with a thin layer of soil, about ¼ to ½ inch deep. Gently moisten the soil using a spray bottle, ensuring it remains damp but not waterlogged. Place the container in a location with bright, indirect sunlight, maintaining a consistent temperature between 60-75°F (16-24°C) for optimal germination.
Ongoing maintenance involves consistent watering and appropriate light exposure. Once the seeds sprout, typically within three to five days, reduce watering to keep the soil slightly moist, allowing it to dry out a bit between waterings to prevent mold. Ensure the grass receives plenty of bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch the blades. Cat grass is usually ready for consumption when it reaches a height of 3-5 inches, typically within one to two weeks after planting. To encourage continued growth and maintain freshness, trim long blades or consider planting new batches every two to three weeks, as its lifespan is generally about two to three weeks.
How to Offer Kattengras to Your Cat
Once your kattengras reaches an appropriate height, offer it to your cat. Place the pot in an accessible location where your cat can easily nibble. Supervise your cat during initial interactions to monitor consumption. While cats generally self-regulate, excessive intake could lead to digestive discomfort or, rarely, blockages.
Ensuring the cat grass is free from pesticides or harmful chemicals is paramount, reinforcing the recommendation for indoor cultivation with organic seeds. Providing fresh kattengras can also deter your cat from potentially toxic houseplants. If you have multiple cats, offer separate pots to prevent competition and ensure each cat has access.