Growing Cat Grass Successfully: Preventing the Pull-Up Problem

Cat grass—typically wheat, oats, or rye—provides safe greens for indoor cats and can help with hairball control. The challenge isn't germination; it's keeping the cat from yanking the seedlings out by the roots before they're established.

Simple Setup with a Protective Barrier

1. Fill a wide, low pot nearly to the rim with moist potting mix.
2. Scatter 2 tablespoons of seed evenly over the surface and cover with 1/8 inch of soil.
3. Mist thoroughly until the top inch is damp.
4. Cut a circle of 1-inch mesh chicken wire to fit the pot. Anchor it to the soil with "hatpins" bent from a wire coat hanger.
5. Cover the pot with clear plastic wrap and place in a sunny window.

Seeds sprout in about a week. The wire mesh allows the grass blades to grow through while preventing the cat from digging. Once the grass reaches 4 inches, remove the plastic and let your cat graze. Replant every few weeks for a continuous supply.