What Is Cat Grass, and Why Do Cats Love It?

Why do cats like cat grass?

“We don’t know why cats of all creatures would seek out grass, and there is little scientific study on cat grass,” says Dr. Karen Hayworth, a veterinarian at VCA Northview Animal Hospital. “But it’s likely a source of moisture and, theoretically, it could help prevent hairballs as a source of fiber.” And you should know that plenty of cats just don’t care about cat grass at all, which is also completely normal.

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What are the benefits of cat grass?

“Cat grass may not be an essential part of a cat’s diet, but it has been known to provide digestive benefits thanks to its impressive vitamin content: vitamins A and D, folic acid, niacin, and chlorophyll,” adds Dr. Lori M. Teller, a professor at A&M’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. (Fun fact: the wheatgrass in your smoothie? Cat grass!) It’s a healthy fibrous snack “and alternative to other [potentially toxic] plants that your cat may try to nibble on — or actual grass in your yard that may be treated with harmful chemicals or home to parasites or bacteria.”

Cat grass is also generally considered safe for kittens, and it can be a low-stakes way to give them something to explore and chew on beyond your houseplants or furniture. On that note, if your cat or kitten tends to eat things they shouldn’t, cat grass can induce vomiting and also be used as a laxative.

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How do you grow cat grass?

Growing cat grass is easier than keeping a succulent alive. There’s even a MasterClass taught by Ron Finley, aka the Gangster Gardener, who explains how to sow the seeds and care for it long after your cat has sunk their teeth into it. You can also find grow kits at most nurseries, pet stores, and on Amazon — they sprout in about a week. Once the seeds have sprouted and grown a few inches, you can let your cat chew on the blades. With each batch, expect a few weeks of nibbling before the blades get chewed down or start to yellow and die back. At that point, you can compost the old cat grass and start a new batch from seed.

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When to check with your vet

“It is perfectly fine to offer cat grass as a treat or leave it freely available for your cat to nibble on,” says Dr. Teller. “However, if your cat seems to eat it voraciously or in place of their normal diet, then you may want to consult with your veterinarian to make sure there is not an underlying health problem.” Dr. Hayworth adds that if your cat vomits up cat grass on the regular, then they’re probably eating too much, and portions should be restricted.