Is your cat fond of eating grass each time she has a chance to go outside? Although eating grass is not prohibited, it can be dangerous for your cat as the grass may have residue from fertilizers and pesticides. You can offer her a safe alternative by propagating cat grass, a mixture of grass grown from seeds that includes barley, oats, wheat, and rye. It is not the same kind of grass used for lawns and landscapes as it is grown indoors for the consumption of pets like cats, dogs, and birds.
How do I grow cat grass without soil?
Cat grass is typically grown in soil but it can thrive well even without it. To grow cat grass without soil, you will need:
- Paper towel or coffee filter
- Organic wheat, barley, or oat grass seeds
- Glass bowl or jar
- Growstones or cat grass pebbles
- Water (preferably filtered)
Follow these steps:
- Place some growstones or cat grass pebbles in the jar or glass bowl you have prepared. It should fill about two-thirds of the entire space in the jar. Next, put a paper towel or coffee filter on top of the stones.
- Put a thin layer of cat grass seeds on the paper towel or coffee filter. You can also pre-soak the seeds in water overnight before placing them on the paper towel.
- Pour water into the glass bowl or jar up to the paper towel. Keep the same amount of water in the jar throughout the entire growth process.
- Place the glass bowl or jar in a dark area of your home where it is away from sunlight. Spray the seeds with water at least two or three times a day. Roots and fresh greens will start to sprout after a couple of days.
Your cat grass will be ready for consumption in a matter of seven to ten days. Maintain the water level consistently. Although it does not have to be as high as when the grass was still sprouting, the plant does need regular watering so it won’t dry out. Also, place the glass bowl or jar in an area with indirect sunlight.
Health benefits of cat grass
These are the health benefits of cat grass for your cat:
1. It induces vomiting.
Cat grass helps induce vomiting if your cat eats something toxic or has an allergic reaction.
2. It speeds up the digestion process.
Cat grass allows for easier and faster digestion of dry kibble which cats love to consume.
3. It alleviates constipation and diarrhea.
Cat grass can treat and may also prevent constipation and diarrhea since it is a good source of fiber.
4. It provides hairball relief.
Cat grass prevents hairballs from forming in your cat’s tummy and helps your cat to cough them out.
5. It is a good source of Vitamin B and niacin.
A cat needs Vitamin B to boost its immune system, nervous system, and digestive tract. This vitamin is also essential for healthy cognitive function and digestion. Niacin is vital for energy metabolism. These important nutrients are present in cat grass, which makes it a superfood for cats.
How often should cats eat cat grass?
Cat grass is a healthy treat, but your cat should only have two to three cat grass sessions per week. There are no strict guidelines as to the frequency and amount of cat grass your cat can eat, but she should take it in moderation. If your cat craves and wants it constantly, it could indicate an underlying health issue. Bring her to the vet so he can assess her thoroughly.
Does cat grass make cats high?
No, cat grass does not make cats high. Most cats seem to be obsessed with cat grass, but it does not contain any addictive ingredients. They are mostly attracted to it because of the health benefits they can get from it, such as coughing up hairballs and toxins from their bodies. It also helps them improve their digestive systems. Cat owners grow cat grass so their pets are deterred from eating other vegetation that could be toxic for them.
Can a cat eat too much cat grass?
Yes. Cats typically should not eat too much cat grass since consuming great amounts may cause vomiting or diarrhea. If you notice that your cat is showing these symptoms, consult your vet for treatment options and limit your cat’s access to the grass.
Conclusion
Cats like to nibble on grass each time they have a chance to go outside the house. However, it could endanger their lives if it is covered with chemical residue from fertilizers and pesticides. Cat grass is a safe and healthy alternative to ordinary foliage since it speeds up the digestion process, eliminates hairballs, and is a good source of Vitamin B and Niacin. It can be grown without soil and all you need are materials like a glass bowl, growstones, a paper towel, and grass seeds.
Image: istockphoto.com / AllaSaa