Last updated on December 2nd, 2011
Last spring, I told you that Tiger, my frisky feline, had taken an interest in my cherished Spider-Plant. I knew this because I awoke each morning to find bits of shredded foliage lying on the floor beneath the plant’s Victorian pedestal. But I’ve finally put an end to Tiger’s horticultural shenanigans. Now, she satisfies her midnight munchies with “Cat Grass,” and leaves my poor Chlorophytum comosum alone!
Cat Grass, or Avena sativa, is truly a marvel. It assists with furball elimination and contains beneficial vitamins and minerals. But best of all, it keeps kitty from gnawing on other, more decorative plants.
If you have a plant-minded cat, there is no season like the present to sow Avena. I sowed the seeds in a heavy, six-inch clay pot that Tiger can’t knock over. A bulb-pan would do as well. The seeds, planted in a humus-rich soil, sprouted practically overnight. Of course I had to set the pot on a high shelf in my window garden to avoid kitty’s interference with germination. But two weeks after sowing, when the blades reached nearly 10 inches, kitty found her gift. It was set beneath her new ex-friend: my spider plant.
And that is my tip for today. If you have troublesome cats, plant this healthful, fast-growing Cat Grass.
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Andrew Thompson says
Well, it looks like Tiger enjoys the stuff. But what do you when she's completely devoured it?
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Andrew – The plant completely renews itself after a three day sojourn to the window garden (top shelf, out of kitty's reach).
Meanwhile, I've already started another crop of Cat Grass. It grows with rocket speed.
Carol says
The grass looks beautiful in the pot. Does your cat bother any of your other plants?
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Carol – I have nearly 200 houseplants, and the Spider plant is the only one she has shown any interest in. Fortunately!
will says
Kevin:
That is an adorable picture of Tiger who looks very happy with her natural snack. Does Camille, the other cat, show any interest? I wonder whether all cats like eating it. Will
Kevin Lee Jacobs says
Will – Camille has not shown any interest in Cat Grass, nor is she inclined to eat the Spider-Plant. Camille is a GOOD kitty.