Healthy Grasses to Grow for Dogs and Cats: A Natural Way to Support Wellness

When we think of grass, we often think of lawns—not something intentional we grow for our pets. But did you know certain grasses can support your dog or cat’s health and wellbeing? Whether you have an indoor cat, a backyard-loving dog, or both, growing safe, nutritious grasses can provide enrichment, aid digestion, and even help with detoxification.

Let’s dig into the best grasses to grow, why pets are instinctively drawn to them, and how you can safely incorporate them into your home or garden.



Why Do Pets Eat Grass?

Many dogs and cats instinctively chew on grass. While some people assume it’s only because they’re feeling nauseous, this behavior often serves multiple purposes, such as:

• Aiding digestion
• Adding fiber to the diet
• Supporting detox pathways
• Satisfying a natural foraging instinct
• Offering enrichment and stimulation

Not all grasses are safe, though—so knowing which types to grow makes all the difference.



Top Pet-Safe Grasses to Grow

1. Wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum)
Wheatgrass is a favorite for both dogs and cats. It’s rich in:

• Chlorophyll
• Vitamins A, C, and E
• Iron, calcium, magnesium
• Enzymes that support detoxification

It’s especially great for indoor cats who don’t have access to fresh greens outside.

How to grow: Indoors in a shallow tray, using organic wheat berries. Grows fast—often within a week!



2. Barley Grass (Hordeum vulgare)
Barley grass is another nutrient-dense grass loaded with:

• Antioxidants
• Amino acids
• Fiber for healthy digestion
It has a softer texture than some grasses, making it ideal for both dogs and cats to nibble.

Bonus: It also supports skin health and can help with mild inflammation.



3. Oat Grass (Avena sativa)

Oat grass is particularly loved by cats and is gentle on the digestive tract. It contains:

• B vitamins
• Zinc and iron
• Silica, which supports healthy skin and coat

How to grow: Use oat groats, keep in moist soil, and grow indoors near sunlight. Trim when tall enough to keep it fresh.



4. Rye Grass (Lolium perenne)

While often found in lawns, a controlled, pesticide-free patch of rye grass can also be grown specifically for pets. It’s fibrous and can help:

• Ease hairball formation in cats
• Provide natural oral stimulation
Use sparingly, as it’s more coarse than wheat or oat grass.



5. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus)

Lemongrass offers a pleasant scent and can act as a natural bug deterrent in outdoor areas. Small amounts may also support digestion and have mild antimicrobial benefits.

Important note: Only allow dogs and cats to nibble fresh lemongrass in moderation—large amounts can cause tummy upset.



Tips for Growing Pet Grass Successfully

• Use organic seeds and avoid any treated with chemicals or pesticides.
• Grow indoors or in pet-safe garden beds, away from treated lawns.
• Use shallow containers with drainage, and keep soil moist but not soggy.
• Harvest grasses before they become too coarse—young shoots are most nutritious and gentle on the stomach.
• Place near windows or sunny spots indoors to encourage natural nibbling.



How to Offer It to Your Pets

• Let them self-select from a small tray or pot.
• Add freshly snipped grass to meals as a fiber boost.
• Use as enrichment—hide treats in the grass or grow it in puzzle feeders.
• Supervise at first to ensure they don’t overindulge or uproot the plant.



A Natural Addition to Their Wellness Routine

Growing healthy grasses at home isn’t just a fun project—it’s a simple, effective way to enhance your pet’s well-being. These grasses support digestion, detox pathways, and natural behaviors in both dogs and cats, all while adding enrichment to their daily lives.
Whether you’re growing wheatgrass in your kitchen or a patch of barley grass in your garden, your pet will thank you for the added greens!

Want more natural health tips for your pet?
Follow us for weekly insights, or book a nutrition consult to create a customized wellness plan tailored to your dog or cat.

-Valerie San Nicolas CPCN