If you are a cat owner, and I assume you are if you’re reading this, and you have a cat that likes to eat your house plants, or you’ve noticed them nibbling on grass whenever they get the chance, try growing cat grass. Cat grass is very easy to grow indoors, and is safe and healthy while keeping cats away from potentially harmful houseplants. Also, it is fun to grow, and it gives you something green in the house.
Cat grass isn’t a specific plant. There are no “cat grass” seeds, but rather a mix of fast growing grasses like wheat grass, barley, oats, or rye. Unlike lawn grass, which may contain pesticides or fertilizers, cat grass is grown specifically for indoor cats to nibble on safely.
Benefits of Cat Grass
- Aids in digestion and reduces hairballs. Cat grass provides fiber which aids in digestion and may reduce hairballs. If your cat is frequently hacking up hairballs (gross) cat grass might help move things along more smoothly.
- provides essential nutrients. Cat grass is a good source of vitamins like folic acid, A,B,C,K, and E. It is also packed with magnesium, amino acids and chlorophyll all of which help keep your kitty happy and healthy.
- Encourages natural chewing behavior. Sometimes cats will chew house plants out of boredom, but many common house plants are toxic. Providing your kitty with cat grass gives them a safe alternative.
How to Grow Cat Grass in Coconut Coir
Coconut coir is a fantastic alternative to soil for growing cat grass. It retains moisture, drains efficiently, and is completely natural. Check out my post for a more in depth guide to Coconut coir here.
Supplies needed to grow cat grass
- Organic cat grass seed ( wheatgrass, oats, barley, or rye)
- Coconut coir. Usually comes in a compressed brick
- A shallow container. Try to use a pot or container that isn’t too tall, because you don’t want your kitty to knock it over, spilling Coconut coir everywhere. I like to use a six inch terracotta pot, because it is nice and sturdy.
- A spray bottle ( for misting ) I like a one gallon spray bottle that I use for all my seed starts.
Prep the Coconut coir
Coconut coir comes in compressed bricks and needs to be hydrated.
Place the coir in a five gallon bucket or a big tub and slowly add warm water. As you add warm water start to break it apart with your hands until it is a light and fluffy texture and not too wet. It should clump together but not be dripping wet. Leftover coir can be stored in a resealable bag.
Planting the Seed
- First, measure out enough seed to evenly and thoroughly cover the surface of the coir.
- Soak the seeds for 6-12 hours. You don’t have to soak first, but this will speed up germination.
- Lightly press the seeds into the coir, but don’t bury too deeply. Press just enough so that the seeds are making good contact with the coir so that roots can take hold.
Watering
Mist the seeds daily with a spray bottle to keep them from drying out until they begin to sprout, usually within 3-5 days. After the grass starts to grow, use the finger test to check the coir. It should feel cool and moist to the touch. Coconut coir retains moisture well, so not much watering should be needed.
Time for Cats to Nibble
Once the cat grass has reached about 4-6 inches tall (7-10 days) it can be set out for your cat to eat. Check it periodically to make sure it’s not drying out.
Cat grass will usually last about two weeks before turning yellow. Once it becomes tough and unappealing, simply compost and start a new one!
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