Many people can’t tell the difference between wheatgrass and cat grass, so we’ve put up this guide to help you figure it out.
The main difference between wheatgrass and cat grass is that wheatgrass is a wheat cultivar and rough blades of cereal grains can injure the inside of your cat’s stomach while cat grass is an oat cultivar and softer and easier to digest for your cat. Wheatgrass and cat grass are both edible to cats.
This article will talk about the differences between cat grass and wheatgrass and which is better for your cat.
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What Is Wheat Grass?
Wheatgrass is the young grass of the wheat plant, Triticum aestivum.
Wheatgrass is a thick-bladed dry grass in its natural raw state. Wild wheatgrass grows quickly and can be harvested in as little as ten days.
Wheatgrass that you see in stores (which is where most people come across wheatgrass) is often collected while the plant is relatively young.
Wheatgrass is also used as a grazing crop for livestock, and wild species such as antelope and deer eat it.
After Schnabel began promoting wheatgrass in the 1930s, it gained a reputation as a superfood and nutritional powerhouse.
Many claims made about wheatgrass’ ability to calm or heal are overstated or based on insufficient evidence.
However, the use of wheatgrass in a variety of human and veterinary medicine sectors remains a fascinating topic, and researchers may still find testable applications.
Wheatgrass still provides critical minerals such as iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and selenium, regardless of the dispute.
Wheatgrass also has a high protein content for a plant. When the wheatgrass plant is young, it has a high protein content, which diminishes as the plant ages.
Wheatgrass also includes a lot of insoluble (non-digestible) fiber, which might assist a slow digestive system get back on track.
Is Wheat Grass Safe For Cats?
Yes, wheatgrass is safe for cats.
Even feline vets aren’t sure what drives cats to wheatgrass but the general consensus is that it’s nothing to be concerned about.
If you’re unsure, the best thing to do is ask your veterinarian “can cats eat wheatgrass?” This is especially true if you’re wondering if wheatgrass is safe for cats because your cat appears to be consuming a lot of it!
When their cats consume wheatgrass, some cat owners are concerned about food allergies. If you notice anything strange in your cat after the consumption of wheatgrass, book an appointment with your vet.
Is Wheat Grass Beneficial To Cats?
Yes, wheatgrass is beneficial to cats. Some of its benefits are: –
Wheatgrass has an incredible amount of chlorophyll, up to 70%! Chlorophyll is a natural blood purifier that not only cleanses but also helps to maintain blood healthy! It also helps to slow down the aging process, making it an excellent addition to the diet of an elderly cat.
Wheatgrass juice, because of its concentrated nature, automatically turns off the appestat in the brain, leading your cat to consume less. The nutritious content of one ounce of this potent juice is equivalent to two pounds of fruit!
Wheatgrass is beneficial for cats that are routinely bred or are currently pregnant. Wheatgrass contains high levels of magnesium, which produces enzymes that assist bind and healing sex hormones.
Wheatgrass can help reduce or even eradicate hairballs in most cats since it naturally eases and aids digestion.
The majority of the time, dry skin or peeling in your cat is caused by intestinal problems. Wheatgrass naturally kills unwanted bacteria while promoting the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut! This will give your cat a lovely coat and velvety skin.
Wheatgrass relieves arthritis pain in cats by regenerating bone and muscle tissue with high mineral content, just as it does in people. It’s also known to be a nerve tonic for senior cats suffering from movement issues.
Wheatgrass naturally binds and eliminates heavy metals from any living organism’s body, as well as fluoride from the water! It also only needs one ounce per gallon. This is great news not only for your cat but also for you.
Wheatgrass, which is high in vitamins A, E, and C, is an excellent supplement for cats with eye problems or elderly cats in general.
Wheatgrass is supposed to not only treat dental and gum problems but also prevent tooth decay! This is great news for cats who suffer from grain sensitivity, which has been linked to tooth loss in cats.
Check out more details about Can Cats Eat Wheatgrass? Is Wheatgrass Good For Cats?
Does Wheat Grass Have Any Side Effects?
Yes, wheatgrass does have side effects, mainly vomiting and increased pooping.
Increased vomiting or defecation is the most common side effect reported by cat owners. This is due to your cat’s inability to digest wheatgrass; the fiber will either cause or prevent whatever is in your cat’s stomach from passing.
If your cat seems to be vomiting a lot or his litter box habits have abruptly changed, it’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian.
Why Does My Cat Likes Cat Grass?
There are many reasons behind the liking of cat grass by your cat, some of them are: –
- Although no one knows why cats eat cat grass, we have a few theories. Cats in the wild munch cat grass after they’ve finished eating their prey. The grass makes the cat puke in many circumstances. Experts say that this is nature’s way of assisting the cat in expelling the indigestible bits of their prey.
- Even if your indoor cat has never captured a mouse or bird, she will be drawn to cat grass automatically. Why? It’s a behavioral instinct. Cat grass is also a type of fiber that, by acting as a laxative, aids cats in either throwing up or digesting hairballs.
- Cats may eat cat grass for trace elements and vitamins A and D, according to another notion. Cat grass also includes chlorophyll, which was used to treat pain, infection, ulcers, skin ailments, and anemia before antibiotics were discovered. Cat grass also contains folic acid, which aids in the formation of hemoglobin, a protein that improves a kitty’s circulation by transporting oxygen into the bloodstream.
Also, check out Oat Grass For Cats: Is Oat Grass Good For Cats?
Different Types Of Cat Grass?
There are four types of Cat Grass.
1. Oat Grass
Oat grass has a somewhat sweet flavor and is more flavorful than other cat grass varieties. It’s also high in protein and soluble fiber, both of which improve digestion.
2. Ryegrass
Ryegrass, unlike its counterparts, is significantly more adaptable and durable. This makes it the ideal type of grass for cats who want to relax while nibbling.
3. Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is a mineral, vitamin, and amino acid powerhouse. It’s not only beneficial for your cat, but it’s also good for you if you include it in your diet.
4. Barley Grass
These delicious, delicate greens are high in vitamins and minerals, as well as a healthy source of fiber.
Also, check out Can Cats Eat Barley
Reasons For Growing Cat Grass
Reasons for growing cat grass are: –
- Cat grass is especially useful for cat owners. It provides a safe and fibrous snack for cats while also acting as a laxative to aid their digestive systems and a vomit-inducer to make it easier for them to cough up indigestible materials.
- Aside from being a healthy salad mix for your cat, this type of grass can also keep cats away from your garden’s houseplants and crops.
- Cat grass is also consumed by humans for its vitamin content, as it contains folic acid, niacin, vitamins A and D, and chlorophyll. Wheatgrass, a type of cat grass, is frequently added to smoothies or taken as a shot for people looking to increase their vitamin intake.
How To Grow Cat Grass At Home?
Follow the steps below to grow cat grass at home: –
1. Sow Your Seeds
Sow cat grass seeds about a quarter-inch deep into your soil (for indoor or outdoor planting). Make sure your rows are one inch apart if you’re planting in rows.
Cat grass can be grown indoors all year, but it should only be planted outside when the threat of frost has gone in the spring.
2. Germinate
Keep your soil moist for indoor growing. Wrap your planting container with plastic wrap and store it somewhere warm and dark. Your cat grass seedlings should start sprouting in two to three days.
3. Sunlight
Allow for direct sunlight. While growing, cat grass will require a lot of sunlight. Make sure your cat grass gets enough of direct sunlight outside, and if you’re growing it indoors, make sure it’s near a sunny windowsill.
4. Firm The Soil
Lightly firm the soil and keep it uniformly hydrated. Overwatering might damage the roots, so be careful.
Also, check out alfalfa grass for cats
How To Care For Cat Grass?
To take care of your cat grass you need to provide it with ample sunlight and the right temperature.
Cat grass care entails growing the grass in the best conditions possible in order to extend its lifespan and get the most out of it.
While cat grass requires sunlight to thrive, it must be kept out of direct sunlight.
Placing your grass in direct sunlight may result in overexposure and death.
Furthermore, it may dry out and eventually wilt. To grow healthy grass, place it in a location with plenty of light but away from direct sunlight.
Keep your cat grass in a temperature range of 16 to 19°C.
Choosing the proper container size is critical; an appropriately sized container allows the cat grass to grow properly.
Other factors to consider include your cat’s preferences; choose a container that your cat is at ease approaching and eating from. Avoid getting a yellow planter, for example, if your cat dislikes bright colors.
Mold can grow as a result of overwatering. To avoid it, mist the soil once a day with a small spray bottle to keep it moist but not wet.
Which One Is Better For Cat: Wheatgrass Or Catgrass?
Both wheatgrass and cat grass are equally beneficial for cats as wheatgrass is a type of catgrass itself.
As it turns out, the only difference between wheatgrass and cat grass is that wheatgrass is a type of cat grass.
Cat grass can also be derived from grain seeds such as oat, barley, rye, flax, bluegrass, fescue, and others.
All of these grasses are commonly used to manufacture cat grass.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cat grass last?
It’s difficult to predict how long your cat grass will last. The length of time the grass can survive is affected by factors such as your cat’s consumption level and the growing method. According to experts, most cat grasses have short lives, lasting 10 to 21 days. In some cases, your cat grass may live for a full month. However, if it discolors and begins to wilt, it’s time to throw it out and start over.
How much wheatgrass should my cat eat?
While these nourishing greens are extremely beneficial, they should not be your cat’s sole source of nutrition. Cats, after all, are carnivores! Wheatgrass has a different effect on each cat; some dislike it while others devour it. If this is your first time feeding wheatgrass to your cat, start with a trial period to see how she reacts. Limit the amount of wheatgrass you give your cat and watch for signs of interest; if she ignores the wheatgrass, it could mean she doesn’t like it.
Is wheatgrass the same as catnip?
No, wheatgrass is not the same as catnip. Catnip is a mint family Labiatae perennial herb. It contains the active ingredient nepetalactone, an essential oil that may influence cat behavior. Wheatgrass, on the other hand, is only for chewing on by cats. It does not have the ability to change behavior.
Final Words
When it comes down to it, both cat grass and wheatgrass are safe to consume. Especially if you buy the right kit or seeds and, as always, keep a close eye on your cat’s habits and health. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
If you have any questions, ask us in the comments section.
Also, check out details about cat grass vs catnip
