Cat Grass vs. Catnip: Key Differences Explained

Today, let's delve into the fascinating world of cat grass and catnip. Are they the same thing? What are the differences between them? Is it safe to feed them regularly? And why do cats eat grass in the first place?

Whether they are domesticated or wild, cats often exhibit a natural instinct to chew on plants. This behavior is deeply rooted in their nature.

Carlo Siracusa, a behavioral biologist at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, explains: "While research has yet to pinpoint exactly why cats eat grass, we have a few theories." "In the wild, cats often consume grass after eating their prey. In many cases, the grass induces vomiting." "We believe this is nature's way of helping cats expel indigestible parts of their prey. Grass also acts as a fiber, aiding in the elimination of fur balls or acting as a laxative to aid digestion."

Another theory suggests that cats may consume certain trace minerals, as well as vitamins A and D, found in the grass. The chlorophyll in grass can alleviate pain, infections, ulcers, skin diseases, and anemia, much like antibiotics did before their discovery. Additionally, grass contains folic acid, which helps produce hemoglobin—a protein that carries oxygen to the blood, aiding in the cat's circulation. The chlorophyll in grass also has the added benefit of cleaning the respiratory system.

What is cat grass? Be sure not to confuse it with catnip from the same mint family. Cat grass is typically grown from seeds of rye, barley, oat, or wheat.

To help distinguish between the two, we will refer to cat grass as "cat wheat grass" in the following text. Cat wheat grass is easy to purchase, whether at a local pet store or online on ecommerce platforms. You can easily find the seeds and planting tools needed to grow it at home.

With just a simple planting process, you can quickly grow a lush supply of cat wheat grass for your feline friend to enjoy. The advantage of growing cat wheat grass at home is that it can reduce your cat's tendency to target other plants and flowers, as many household plants are unsafe for cats.

Is cat wheat grass safe? Cat wheat grass is very safe. Cats that eat it will not experience any stimulating reactions, but it is the most natural and effective hairball prevention food, stimulating bowel movements. Wild cats will instinctively seek out this type of grass when they feel a deficiency in folic acid. It is especially important to have fresh cat wheat grass on hand during your cat's shedding season.

How do you grow cat wheat grass? Before germination, keep the seeds moist but do not soak them. Once they have germinated, use less water.

Wait three to seven days for the seeds to germinate. The grass will typically grow to about 10cm in height within 10 to 14 days after germination and can be eaten at this point.

Continue to use a spray bottle to keep the grass moist and exposed to natural light for about one to two weeks.

When the grass begins to wilt or change color, you can replant it.

What is catnip? Catnip belongs to the mint family, and if you crush a fresh leaf, you can smell the scent.

It is this scent that makes cats feel as if they are drunk. That's why toys containing catnip are often a hit with cat owners. The reaction cats have to catnip is primarily due to the nepetalactone found in the plant, which is irresistible to cats.

Nepetalactone can relieve stress and treat nervousness. When cats sniff or ingest catnip, they may become excited, rolling on the ground, drooling, making noises, and even rubbing their heads against the catnip.

The strong aroma of catnip can also help with digestion and relieve bloating, aiding in the elimination of fur balls. Catnip is a mild cat hallucinogen, but rest assured, it will not harm your cat.

The effects of catnip on cats typically only last a few minutes, so cats will not become addicted. However, if used excessively and over a long period, it may reduce the cat's sensitivity to nepetalactone, leading to tolerance effects. It is generally recommended to use catnip once a week.

However, it is important to note that compared to cat wheat grass, catnip is much more attractive to cats, which could lead to them consuming too much catnip at once and causing stomach discomfort. Additionally, cat owners should avoid giving catnip to cats with special diseases (such as epilepsy) or pregnant cats.

Why doesn't my cat react to catnip? Cats' reactions to nepetalactone are genetically determined, with about 1/3 of cats having a minimal response to the compound. Young kittens, whose development is not yet complete, also have a weak reaction to catnip. Most cats must be at least six months old to react to it.

Catnip is also easy to purchase, with many products on the market made from catnip, including snacks and toys. You can choose to buy according to your needs.