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Does your little furball like to munch on your plants? It turns out it’s part of their instincts—but don’t worry! There’s a way to let your cat indulge in its greenery cravings: cat grass and catnip. You might think these two are the same, but these leafy delights have distinct purposes and benefits.
Cat grass comes from different types of cereal grains, including wheat, barley, and oats. Historically, these grains have been cultivated for human consumption, but varieties for pets have become popular due to the health benefits they provide (we’ll talk about it later). Cat grass is essentially young grass grown at a tender stage, making it safe for cats to chew on.
There are several options available if you want to buy cat grass. Kits are available in local pet stores and garden centers, usually containing seeds, soil, and a container. These kits make it easy to plant cat grass at home.
Alternatively, large supermarkets and pet chains sell pre-grown cat grass, especially in cities with limited gardening space. Online retailers are also excellent options for buying an extensive range of cat grass products, from seeds to complete growing systems, to suit every cat’s and owner’s preferences.
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta Cataria, originates from Europe and Asia but has become widespread across the globe, particularly in North America. It grows everywhere—you can find it in herb gardens, roadsides, and fields. Its global spread is due to its garden plant usage and appeal to cats.
Catnip contains nepetalactone, which triggers a temporary, euphoric reaction in felines. However, not all cats respond to its impact. Sensitivity to catnip is hereditary, and about 50% of cats may not feel its effect at all.
You have several options to get catnip for your furry pal. You can get it in many pet stores and sell it in different forms, ranging from dried leaves to catnip-infused toys. You can also get catnip plants and seeds in garden centers and nurseries, allowing you to grow your own catnip.
If you prefer shopping online, numerous websites and online retailers sell catnip in bulk, as live plants, or in processed forms suited for pet use. You can also find organic varieties to ensure they’re cultivated without pesticides or synthetic fertilizers, which could harm your feline friend.
Lastly, you can opt for farmers’ markets. They sometimes have vendors that sell herbs, including catnip.
Catnip and cat grass offer benefits that can keep a balanced and enriched life for your beloved whiskered buddy.
One of the benefits of cat grass is that it helps promote better digestion and prevent hairballs. Cats clean themselves through their tongues, causing them to swallow a lot of fur. This fur can form hairballs in their digestive tract, giving them so much pain. Cat grass is a natural way to prevent this unpleasant experience. The fiber in this grass sweeps away everything that blocks their digestive tract, preventing hairball buildup and constipation.
Catnip is a mental stimulant for cats. Once they chew or sniff it, it can cause them to roll around, meow excitedly, or zoom around the house. This burst of energy will keep your cat entertained and active, especially for domestic pets with fewer environmental stimuli.
Cat grass contains essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamins A and D. These nutrients are crucial for your cat’s overall health. Felines munching on this plant have better eyesight, a more robust immune system, and stronger bones.
Believe it or not, catnip can alleviate stress and anxiety. Its euphoric effect is often followed by calmness, relieving anxiety and promoting relaxation. This herb benefits your cat, especially if it gets easily startled or hates loud noises.
Cats have a thing for chewing on plants. However, some common indoor plants can be toxic to your fur baby. Cat grass is a perfect solution! Providing your kitty with a safe and enticing alternative will prevent it from nibbling on potentially harmful houseplants while satisfying its urges.
Cats become active when exposed to catnip. It causes them to run around and play with catnip toys. This activity is essential for healthy weight management and preventing boredom-related behaviors like scratching furniture.
Now that you know the benefits of cat grass and catnip, let’s break down their differences:
| Feature | Cat Grass | Catnip |
| Purpose | Helps with digestion, provides vitamins, safe houseplant alternative | Mental stimulation, alleviates stress and anxiety, encourages playtime |
| Effect | None | Euphoric sensation in some cats |
| Benefits | Better digestion, hairball prevention, essential nutrients | Mental stimulation, relieves stress and anxiety, promotes physical exercise |
| Usage | Regular consumption | Occasional play sessions |
As mentioned earlier, many pet stores sell pre-grown cat grass and catnip plants, so you don’t have to grow them at home. However, if you have a green thumb and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, planting them is easy.
Ready to bring out the fun for your feline buddy? Here’s how to ensure a positive experience when introducing these herbs to your furry pal.
Offer a small amount of cat grass or catnip. Giving too much quantity at once can overwhelm your cat, especially if this is its first time encountering these shrubs.
Pay attention to how your cat responds to the plant. Adjust the amount accordingly to prevent digestive upset or overstimulation.
Cat grass and catnip are safe for cats, but it’s crucial to supervise them, especially during the first encounter. You want to ensure they don’t chow down the plants too much or knock them over.
If you have these herbs at home, replace them regularly. Fresh greens are always more enticing, and old plants lose their potency.
Encouraging your cat to try these herbs may require a bit of creativity. Strategically place cat grass near your cat’s feeding area or mix it with its diet. For catnip, sprinkle it all over the scratching post or pad or its favorite toy.
Don’t force it if you tried everything and nothing seemed to work. Some cats are immune to catnip or don’t like eating grass at certain times. You can try again another time.
As with anything, moderation is key with cat grass and catnip. Here are a few more pointers to remember when giving these shrubs to your feline friend:
Cat grass is meant for regular consumption, but that doesn’t mean your cat can go overboard. Limit your cat’s cat grass intake. A few blades at a time are usually plenty and enough.
Limit your cat’s catnip exposure to two to three times a week. That way, your cat will be more excited and happier whenever you throw it. Furthermore, regular exposure can lose its efficacy for cats over time.
If your feline friend seems to have unusual reactions to these shrubs or digestive issues, immediately take your cat to the vet. They can advise you on the right amount and frequency based on your cat’s needs and health.
Cat grass and catnip offer your furry pal the best of both worlds. Cat grass helps improve overall health, while catnip provides mental and emotional stimulation. Knowing their benefits and differences and how to introduce them to your cat is crucial for your fluffy companion’s care. Together, your fur kid will have a happy, healthy, and active lifestyle.
So, if you’re ready to create a tiny feline jungle at home, get planting or buy pre-grown catnip and cat grass plants! Your fuzzy furball will thank you with lots of cuddles, happy purrs, and playful antics.
Want to tell other cat parents about the wonders of cat grass and catnip? Share your experiences in the comment section below! If you have questions, feel free to ask. We’re available around the clock to answer your queries about catnip and other products we have.
