Image Source: Pixabay.com
Humans do not know why cats eat grass. Many cat owners do not like it when their feline friends eat grass because it makes for a nasty mess. A popular theory is that cats eat grass because it helps them throw up indigestible parts of prey and get rid of hairballs. Grass also contains a lot of fiber which can aid them in digestion. Grass also contains chlorophyll which serves a variety of uses like alleviating pain, infection, anemia, and skin disease. The folic acid in the grass is also known to improve circulation. While we may not find out why cats like eating grass in the near future, we do know one thing, and that is that they like it. It causes no real known harm other than an occasional spill. So why not grow some for them to eat once in a while? Here are 5 types of grass to grow for your cat.
- Oat – Many cats prefer oat grass to other types of grass because oat grass is slightly sweeter than other types of grass. If your cat is a picky eater, oat is a great choice because they’ll most likely love it. To be on the safer side, it’s better to test it out by offering them some oat grass and seeing if they eat it. Better to find out they like oat grass before committing to growing grass and find out they don’t like oat grass.
- Wheat – Wheat is jam-packed with minerals and contains 70% chlorophyll. Many humans eat a lot of wheat because it is very healthy. Wheat makes a great addition to your cats’ diet because it helps fight inflammation as well as boosts their overall health.
- Rye – Cats love to roll on grass. It is pure bliss for them. Ryegrass is shorter and is famous for being more durable than other grass. This makes it perfect for growing if your cat loves rolling in the grass.
- Barley – Barley is much taller than Rye. It regularly reaches heights of over 14,” and as a bonus, it is quick to grow. If your cat is a habitual “weed puller,” barley is a great choice because of how quickly it grows.
- Dactylis glomerate – This one is quite literally a mouthful. It is known by many names, such as cook’s foot and orchard grass. It can grow in a variety of places and is very versatile. It contains a lot more sugar than other types of grasses and is perfect for your cat if they don’t like oat but want something sweet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of grass can I grow for my cat?
There are several types of grass that can be grown for cats to graze on. Cat grass is a type of grass that is commonly grown for cats to eat. It is high in protein and other nutrients that are beneficial for cats. Wheatgrass is another popular option for cats. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as other essential nutrients. Barley grass is another nutrient-rich option for cats. It is high in vitamins A, B, and E, as well as minerals such as iron and potassium. Alfalfa is beneficial for cats as it prevents kidney diseases in cats. Oat grass is high in fiber for cats and contains minerals like iron, manganese, zinc, and vitamin B. Also, you should make sure that the grass you choose is not treated with any pesticides or fertilizers, as these can be harmful to your cat.
Is any grass safe for cats?
No, there are some varieties of grasses that may be toxic for cats. For example, arrowgrass can cause several complications for cats, including distress, twitching, convulsions, and even death. Grass palm is not toxic to humans, but ingestion can be harmful to cats. Some other grasses toxic to cats include ryegrass (without proper management), bermudagrass, foxtail barley, johnson grass, and orchard grass.
Should I grow cat grass for my cat?
Growing cat grass for your cat can be a good idea, as it provides them with a safe source of greens to nibble on. Cats are naturally inclined to chew on grass, as it can help them to vomit hairballs and other indigestible materials. Additionally, grass can provide cats with some essential nutrients and minerals, such as vitamins A, C, and E, and folic acid. However, if you choose to grow cat grass for your cat, it's important to use a grass seed that is safe for cats. Some grass seeds may be treated with pesticides or other chemicals that can be harmful to cats, so it's a good idea to choose an organic seed variety. There are commercial products labeled as "cat grass" that you can buy, and those are specially formulated for feline consumption and will not be toxic.
Can I give my cat grass from outside?
It's possible to give your cat grass from outside, but it's important to be careful about what types of grass you're offering. As I mentioned earlier, there are some grasses that can be toxic to cats if ingested, so it's essential to ensure that the grass your cat is eating is safe. It's also worth noting that not all grasses found outside are safe for cats to eat. Grass that has been treated with pesticides or other chemicals can be dangerous for your cat. Also, grass that grows in areas with high levels of pollution or near roads can be contaminated with heavy metals or other toxins. If you decide to give your cat grass from outside, it's a good idea to supervise them while they're eating to ensure that they're not ingesting too much or showing any signs of distress. It would be safer and more reliable to grow cat grass indoors, as you can control the environment and what type of seed you're using and prevent any contamination of any kind.
