Cat grass is a mix of cereal grain grasses, most commonly young oats, wheat, barley, or rye, grown specifically for feline consumption. This safe indoor alternative provides fiber that aids digestion and stimulates intestinal motility. The fiber assists in the passage of ingested hair through the digestive tract, which helps reduce the formation of hairballs. It also offers trace nutrients, including folic acid, which is involved in red blood cell production.
Gathering Supplies
The growing container should be shallow and wide, ideally featuring drainage holes to prevent water collection. A heavier vessel is a practical choice to prevent a cat from easily tipping the pot once the grass begins to grow. For the growing medium, choose an organic potting soil or a soilless starter like coconut coir, as these are safer for pets who will be consuming the final product.
It is important to select high-quality, non-treated seeds, as chemicals used on commercial seeds can be harmful to pets. Oat grass, wheatgrass, and barley are excellent choices, often sold as a blend, known for their ease of growth and nutritional content. Cat grass does not require fertilizer because it is harvested quickly, and certain ingredients can be toxic if consumed.
Planting the Seeds
Preparing the seeds with a pre-soak can significantly speed up the germination process. Place the seeds in a bowl and cover them with water for four to six hours before planting, then rinse them thoroughly. Begin by filling the container with the growing medium, leaving about an inch or two of space from the rim. Thoroughly moisten the soil until it is damp but not waterlogged.
Next, spread the pre-soaked seeds densely and evenly across the soil surface to ensure a thick, lush patch of grass. A dense layer is desirable because the seeds sprout into a tight mat, making it harder for a cat to dig them up. Cover the scattered seeds with a very thin layer of soil, about one-eighth to one-quarter of an inch, or simply press them gently into the prepared surface. This shallow covering ensures the seeds have contact with the moisture without being buried too deeply.
Essential Care and Maintenance
After planting, the container requires a warm environment and consistent moisture for rapid germination. Loosely covering the container with plastic wrap creates a humid microclimate, but remove it as soon as the first sprouts appear, typically within two to three days. Once the seedlings emerge, move the container to a location that receives bright, indirect light, such as a sunny window. Avoid direct, intense sun that can scorch the blades.
The most delicate aspect of care is regulating moisture; the soil must remain consistently moist but never soggy. Overwatering is the primary cause of mold growth, which thrives in overly wet conditions. To prevent this, ensure the container has excellent drainage and air circulation. Check the soil daily and water only when the top half-inch feels dry, promptly emptying any water that collects in the saucer below. Cat grass thrives in typical indoor temperatures, generally ranging between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
When and How to Serve
The cat grass is ready for consumption when the blades reach a height of about three to four inches, which usually takes four to seven days from planting. Waiting until this height ensures the grass is established enough to withstand nibbling without the cat uprooting the entire plant. To introduce the grass, simply place the container in an accessible location for your cat to graze.
Alternatively, you can use clean scissors to clip small amounts of the grass and mix the trimmings into their food. A single batch of cat grass remains fresh and vibrant for two to three weeks before the blades begin to wilt or turn yellow. For a continuous supply, start a new batch of seeds every two to three weeks.