Cat grass is a blend of cereal grains, typically wheat, oat, barley, or rye, grown specifically as a safe and healthy treat for felines. It should not be confused with catnip, which is a member of the mint family and produces a behavioral effect. Cat grass offers dietary fiber and nutrients. Growing your own cat grass is a simple process that provides your indoor cat with a year-round source of fresh vegetation and can deter them from chewing on potentially toxic houseplants.
Necessary Materials
To grow your own fresh supply, you will need to select the appropriate seeds and planting container. Cat grass is commonly grown from seeds like oat, wheat, barley, or rye, with oat grass often favored by cats for its sweet taste. Purchase seeds specifically labeled as cat grass or organic seeds to ensure they are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals.
The container you choose should be sturdy and wide enough to prevent your cat from easily tipping it over during grazing. It must have drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Proper drainage is important because standing water quickly leads to fungal growth and mold, which is a common issue when growing cat grass indoors.
For the growing medium, use a light, well-aerated potting soil or a soilless mix like coconut coir. Avoid using outdoor garden soil or potting mixes that contain added fertilizers, as these are unnecessary for the short life cycle of the grass and may be ingested by your cat. Ensure at least one inch of soil depth to provide sufficient space for the roots to anchor.
Sowing the Seeds
Before planting, pre-soak your seeds for 4 to 8 hours to speed up germination. This activates the embryo within the seed, allowing it to sprout quickly once planted. After soaking, drain the water completely and prepare your container by filling it with the growing medium, leaving about one inch of space at the top.
Scatter the seeds densely over the entire surface of the soil, aiming for a single, uniform layer. Sowing them closely encourages the grass to grow into a thick, lush carpet, which is more appealing for your cat and helps the blades stand upright. Cover the seeds lightly with about a quarter-inch of soil or simply press them gently into the surface.
The initial watering should saturate the soil thoroughly until water begins to run out of the drainage holes. After this first watering, it is best to use a spray bottle or mister to keep the top layer moist but not waterlogged. Maintaining consistent moisture without oversaturation is the key to successful germination, which generally occurs within three to eight days.
Ongoing Maintenance and Serving
Once the seeds have sprouted, move the container to a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight, such as a sunny windowsill. Cat grass needs sufficient light to grow quickly and develop a vibrant green color, though it does not require direct, intense sun. If natural light is limited, a small LED grow light can be used to ensure healthy growth.
Watering should be done sparingly to prevent the soil from becoming soggy, which can foster mold growth and lead to root rot. Allow the top layer of the soil to dry slightly between waterings, perhaps every other day, depending on the warmth of your home. Bottom-watering, by placing the pot in a shallow tray of water for a short time, can also promote a stronger root system.
The cat grass is ready for consumption when the blades reach a height of two to four inches, usually within 10 to 15 days of planting. When introducing the grass, place the container near your cat’s eating area for short periods, allowing them to graze directly from the pot. To ensure a continuous fresh supply, start a new batch of seeds every two to three weeks. The grass should be replaced when it begins to yellow or after about two to three weeks of use, as its nutritional value and appeal will decline.