If you’re a cat parent, you probably know that our feline friends have a bit of a thing for greens. Whether it’s to help settle their stomachs, get rid of pesky hairballs, or just to snag some extra vitamins and folic acid, cats naturally crave grass. The good news? You don’t have to keep buying those pre-grown pots at the pet store. Growing your own DIY cat grass from seed is super easy, and I’m going to show you how!
Choosing the Right Seeds
“Cat grass” isn’t actually one specific plant; it’s a catch-all term for several types of greens that are safe for indoor cats to munch on. Since indoor kitties don’t have access to a backyard, providing a little indoor garden is essential for their digestion and overall well-being.
Most pet owners go with cereal grains, but a huge favorite is Umbrella Papyrus (botanically known as *Cyperus zumula*). It’s part of the sedge family and looks fantastic in your home. Since cats usually just nibble the tips, the plant stays lush and green, making it just as much a piece of decor as it is a snack for your cat.
Which Variety is Best for You?
You can find seeds online, at your local garden center, or even at health food stores. Besides the popular Umbrella Papyrus, you can also grow “sweet grasses” like wheat, oats, or barley. Even dwarf bamboo is a great option!
If you’re looking for instant gratification, wheat and barley grow incredibly fast. Umbrella Papyrus and bamboo take a little longer to get established, but they’re perfect if your cat is a light snacker or if you want something that looks a bit more polished on your windowsill.
When to Start Planting
The best part about planting cat grass is that there’s no “wrong” time to do it. Since you’re growing it indoors, you can start a new batch any time of the year. These seeds are pretty hardy—most will start germinating at temperatures as low as 35-40°F, though they’ll pop up much faster in a cozy room.
Here’s your shopping list:
- Your choice of seeds
- A shallow planter or tray
- Seed-starting potting mix
- Water (distilled or rainwater is best if your tap water is very hard)
Step-by-Step: How to Grow Your Own
Before you get your hands dirty, give your seeds a head start. Soak them in a bowl of water for a few hours to soften the outer shell. This makes growing your own cat grass much faster!
While the seeds soak, fill your planter with the potting mix. Once they’re ready, spread the seeds out and cover them with about an inch of soil.
Place the pot in a bright spot with plenty of light. Keep the soil moist, but be careful not to overwater—you don’t want the seeds sitting in a puddle! If your house is a bit dry, you can loosely place a plastic bag over the pot to create a mini greenhouse effect. It won’t be long before you see those first green shoots poking through, ready for your kitty to enjoy!
