If you’ve ever caught your cat snacking on your lawn or houseplants, don’t worry—they aren’t trying to go vegetarian! It turns out that munching on greens serves a very specific purpose for our feline friends. Here’s the scoop on why cats love grass and everything you need to know about growing the right kind for them.
Why Do Cats Eat Grass, Anyway?
If you spend any time with cats, you know they are obsessed with staying clean. They spend hours grooming themselves, which means they end up swallowing a lot of loose fur. To keep those pesky hairballs from causing trouble deep in their digestive tract, cats need a way to get them back up.
That’s where the grass comes in. Eating grass acts as a natural way to trigger their gag reflex. It helps them regurgitate those fur clumps before they cause a blockage. But it’s not just about the “cleanup” crew; grass also provides some nutritional perks. It’s packed with folic acid and essential minerals that are great for a cat’s overall health.
Choosing the Right Cat Grass
To make sure your kitty stays safe while snacking, there are a few things to keep in mind. First off, not all greens are created equal. Some plants are indigestible or even toxic to cats. You also want to avoid grasses that are too “woody” or sharp, as they can actually cause little cuts in your cat’s throat. Stick to thin, juicy, fresh blades. Besides standard “cat grass” mixes, many common grains work perfectly too.
Here are some safe bets for your feline friend:
- Sedges (Cyperaceae)
- Sweet grasses (Poaceae)
- Oats or Wheat
- Umbrella Papyrus (Cyperus alternifolius)
How to Grow and Maintain Cat Grass
You can easily find pre-grown pots of cat grass at most pet stores or garden centers. However, it’s incredibly easy to grow your own from seeds! You can start them indoors any time of year. Varieties like Umbrella Papyrus grow super fast and look like a beautiful, vibrant houseplant in the process.
If you want to get a little fancy, you don’t have to stick to a small pot. You can actually plant a small “grass carpet” in a shallow tray for your home. Your cat will love lounging on their own private lawn, and they can nibble whenever the mood strikes. It’s a win-win: your pet stays healthy, and you get a nice pop of greenery in your living room!
