Cats and Grass

Why Do Cats Eat Grass?

Experts have several theories to explain why cats like grass. Do cats actually require all of that green roughage to balance their diet because they eat meat primarily? Should you regularly provide them with kale? According to some scientists, cats consume plant matter to supplement their diet with uncooked nutrients. After all, we humans are frequently advised to consume our vegetables. But are cats expected to do similarly?

Purina Cat Chow explains that grass contains folic acid, a nutrient that felines need to survive. Folic acid improves blood oxygen levels and aids in normal kitten development. Cats may chew on grass as a supplement if their diet isn't providing them with enough of the vitamin. Niacin and fiber can also be found in grass. Niacin cannot be produced by cats' bodies. As a result, they have to obtain it from somewhere else. Cats with these vitamin deficiencies may lose weight, have a decreased appetite, have swollen gums, and experience hemorrhagic diarrhea.

The blood oxygen levels are raised by folic acid, which also supports healthy kitten development. If they don't get enough vitamin A in their food, cats may nibble on grass as a supplement. Grass also contains fiber and niacin. Cats cannot manufacture niacin on their own. They have to get it from somewhere else as a result. These vitamin deficiencies in cats can result in weight loss, decreased appetite, swollen gums, and hemorrhagic diarrhea.

Can Eating Grass Be Dangerous?

Many people treat their lawns with fertilizers and pesticides.Regrettably, prolonged exposure to these toxins can be harmful to the health of your cat. These substances can be ingested by your cat even if you merely let it roam around on a lawn that has been treated. If your pet enjoys lounging outside, several experts advise not treating your lawn.

Moreover, cats can pick up these dangerous chemicals on their paws and coats. The poisons are ingested when they lick themselves clean. Your pet won't likely become sick from this. However, a delicate cat might exhibit symptoms of pesticide toxicity. Anemia, convulsions, excessive drooling, shaky gait, and breathing difficulties are all signs of pesticide or fertilizer toxicity.

The desire to eat grass can also be hazardous for indoor cats. Have your houseplants ever been nibbled on by your cat? The same reason outdoor cats eat grass is why she does this. Many potted plants, though, are poisonous to cats. Aloe, amaryllis, lilies, bird of paradise, and tulips are just a few examples of the plants that might be harmful for cats to ingest, according A Better Alternativeto the ASPCA.

A Better Alternative

Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can grow indoor cat grass that’s safe for your kitty to eat.How is cat grass grown? The method is not too difficult. Kits that include the pots, soil, and seeds are available on several websites. For a cat-friendly indoor garden, you can also cultivate a range of other grasses. Your cat can eat the grass produced by the growth of oats, rye, barley, and wheat.

How to Grow Cat Grass

Purchase seeds from a pet supply store or online. They will be inserted into little pots. Your cat shouldn't be able to readily knock the containers over. Some people grow cat grass in enormous trays that their cats may use for sitting, lying down, and walking.

With potting mix, fill the container roughly three-quarters of the way. Make sure there are no chemical fertilizers in the soil. Consider looking for a natural alternative. As you put the soil to the pot, mist it with water. It ought to be damp but not sopping wet. After you've finished adding the dirt, scatter the seeds over the top and loosely wrap the entire arrangement in plastic wrap. Keep it away from the sun until you notice sprouts.

Move the container to a sunny area as soon as the seeds start to grow. Keep it out of your cat's reach at this time since he might become intrigued and start digging, which would impede the growth of the plants. When the soil starts to feel dry, mist it with water, but don't let it become wet. Mold development can be facilitated by overwatering. Put the grass out for your cat to eat when it reaches a height of three to four inches.

Tips for Cat Grass Care

Even when your cat eats away at the grass, it will still grow taller since it grows from the root. In order to give some plants a chance to recover after your cat has dined on them, you might want to rotate a few different pots if your cat is a real grass pig. After a few weeks, the grass will start to wilt and lose its color. You can now remove the plants by the roots and start the planting process over. For a consistent supply, some people fill fresh pots with cat grass every few weeks.

Even when your cat eats away at the grass, it will still grow taller since it grows from the root. In order to give some plants a chance to recover after your cat has dined on them, you might want to rotate a few different pots if your cat is a real grass pig. After a few weeks, the grass will start to wilt and lose its color. You can now remove the plants by the roots and start the planting process over. For a consistent supply, some people fill fresh pots with cat grass every few weeks.Giving Your Cat What He or She NeedsGiving Your Cat What He or She Needs

Giving Your Cat What He or She Needs

Both indoor and outdoor cats can benefit from growing cat grass. It can stop your indoor cat from nibbling on your houseplants and your outdoor cat from eating chemically treated grass. Place the grass in a few spots around the house where your cat likes to hang out to encourage him to eat it. You can place it next to a scratching post or on a windowsill. You can also move the houseplants your cat adores and put grass in their place. Just remember that not all cats will eat grass, so if your cat prefers kibble, don't take it personally!