Cat Grass

Article by Marina Hanes (2,825 pts ) , published Apr 29, 2009

You and your cat can enjoy cat grass together. Cat grass or wheat grass is an excellent snack rich in vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Although feline's are carnivores, it's important to include vegetables in their diet. With cat grass this is easy to do, because it's leaves are irresistible.

What is Cat Grass?

Cat grass and cat wheat grass make healthy snacks for your felines. The seeds of these plants are actually cultivated for many brand name breakfast cereals for humans. In addition, athletes and health conscious people enjoy drinking wheat grass juice to boost their vitamin and mineral levels. So the grassy blades can be an edible treat for you and your cat.

Pet Health

Although cats are carnivores, it’s important to incorporate vegetables into their diet. As with any living organism, a balanced diet is most beneficial. Cat grass can benefit your feline as well as its environment.

Since cat grass contains chlorophyll, it serves as a natural breath freshener, which can be helpful if your cat’s breath always has a fishy odor. In addition, your pet can get part of their daily dose of anti-oxidants, 16 vitamins, 13 minerals and 18 amino acids. Having this plant available to your cats can improve their digestive process (particularly in the hair ball department) by providing them with a source of fiber. Cat grass also gives life to your home and enables your cat to have more of a connection with its natural surroundings.

Cat grass is easy to grow and maintain, so your cat can have access to something crunchy and delicious even when you’re not at home. Plus, this is also a safer option if you’re worried about your cat eating the outdoor landscaping that is treated with pesticides, insecticides and fertilizers. Instead, your cat can safely satisfy its craving.

Caring for Your Cat Grass

To start your own flat of grass, all you need are the seeds (you can even purchase organic seeds), soil and a planter (preferably one with good drainage). First, soak your seeds in water for 10 to 12 hours and drain and rinse them thoroughly. Then spread the soil evenly into a planter so that it’s half full. Liberally sprinkle the seeds over the dirt and add enough water so the soil is moist. Finally, cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Within 4 to 5 days, you should be seeing growth, and within two weeks, the grass should be mature enough to feed to your cat.

To continue regular growth, make sure you give the plant time to catch up before your cat chews it down. Depending on how many cats you have as well as their appetites, you might want to grow three or more at a time. Also, remember to water it regularly and keep several flats around to keep your cat happy.

 
Subscribe to Green Living
RSS
Get free weekly updates, directly to your inbox.