Veterinarians aren't really sure why, but some cats just love to eat grass. If your cat is among the herbivore class of kitties, there is a safe way to satisfy his urges. Rather than letting your cat eat potentially poisonous plants, try growing edible grass specifically for your cat.
Safe Grasses
So-called "cat grass" can be purchased at most pet stores or online. You can either buy the grass already grown or you can buy the seeds and grow the grass yourself. This grass is usually made up of oat, wheat, barley and rye seeds. All of these grasses are safe for pets. Pre-grown grasses are generally safe, but growing them yourself means that you can be sure that there were no pesticides or hormones used during the growing process.
Catnip
Catnip is not really a grass, but it can also help satisfy your cat's need for green. Most people have seen dried catnip for sale at the pet store, but that is not the only catnip option. You can also by fresh catnip, or you can grow your own. Many pet stores carry catnip seeds or catnip sprouts that you can grow at home.
Sprouting Cat Grasses
First, you should start with a container that your cat isn't likely to tip over. There isn't much point in planting the cat grass if it is just going to end up all over the floor. Next, fill the container about 3/4 of the way full with potting soil. For safest results, use natural potting soil with no additives. Dampen the soil by lightly watering or spraying with a squirt bottle. Sprinkle seeds over the surface of the soil, then cover the container with plastic wrap. The seeds should sprout in a few days.
Growing the Sprouts
After your seeds are sprouted, remove the plastic wrap. Move the container to a sunny location, out of the reach of your cat. Lightly water the sprouts enough to keep the soil moist but not too wet. The sprouts should take root and start to grow taller. You can offer the grass to your cat once the sprouts reach about 4 inches tall.
