Cats and grass

doomsdave

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Every cat I've ever had has LOVED to eat grass, and I've found them not to be too picky about what kind of grass it is.

When I had outside cats, I'd often see them chowing down on a bit of grass.

Once I realized the need to keep kitties inside away from the Coyotes of Death, the ones who slipped out would often stop for a quick nibble - I mean dead in their tracks! - which allowed me to catch them. (Most of the time.)

Now that all the cats are inside, I find they still love their grass. If I pull some out and bring it in, they run right over and chow down. They'll even take it after it's dried.

This is "weed grass" not lawn grass. It's not treated with fertilizers or bug killers. It's grass I'd pull out from around other plants anyway. That said, cats will eat lawn grass, too, if you let them. I don't have a lawn, but I know many do.

There are many plants that look like grass, but aren't. Be careful as some are poisonous. If you're not sure, don't give the cats any.

Also, the cats will nibble on dried palm tree leaves which I use as fireplace kindling. I don't like to bring in grass or let them nibble on palm leaves because I'm afraid they'll get parasites from them.

I'm tempted to grow a bit in the house for the kitties. They seem to like the taste and it also helps them gack up hairballs.

I've seen those little pots you can buy: water and grass pops up for the kitties! Any Cat Siters do that? Anyone have thoughts on cats and grass?

A parting shot of Anduille, who loved to eat grass.

 

mrsgreenjeens

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I've grown "cat grass" specifically made for indoor cats, and every time I let my furries eat it, they throw it up.  I finally gave up on letting them have it because I got tired of having to clean up the throw up
  When they aren't eating it, they're fine...no hairballs, nothing.  (and they eat only wet food)
 

Willowy

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It's easy to grow "cat grass", for cheap (don't buy those pricey little kits at the pet store!). Just go to a health food store that sells in bulk, get some whole oats or wheat, put some (non-fertilized) dirt in a pot or bowl, spread a thick layer of seeds on top, sprinkle some dirt on top (not too much), soak it, cover it with plastic wrap, and put it somewhere that kitties can't get it until the grass is big enough! Cheap and easy. It lasts about a week, maybe 2, if the cats don't ravage it first.

I don't really think there are any health benefits to giving kitties grass. It's just an enrichment activity.
 
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