Cat Grass: Safety outdoors, Allergies and the Best Potting Mix for Your Feline Friends

Growing Cat Grass and Catnip: Potting Mix and Potential Allergies

Cat grass and catnip are popular indoor plants that are enjoyed by many cat owners. These plants provide cats with an alternative source of greens that can help aid their digestion and reduce hairballs. However, to ensure that these plants thrive indoors, it is important to use the right potting mix and be aware of any potential allergies that cats may have to potting mixes.

Potting Mix for Cat Grass and Catnip:

Both cat grass and catnip prefer a well-draining potting mix that is rich in organic matter. A good potting mix for cat grass and catnip should be loose, fertile, and well-aerated to allow for proper root growth and water drainage. 

Potential Allergies:

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), most cats are not allergic to potting mixes. However, some potting mixes may contain chemicals or substances that can be harmful to pets if ingested. For example, some potting mixes contain fertilizers, pesticides, or other chemicals that can be toxic if consumed in large amounts.

To avoid any potential harm to your cat, it is recommended to use natural, organic potting mixes that do not contain any harmful chemicals. In a study published in the Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, researchers found that using organic potting mixes can improve plant growth and development while reducing the risk of pests and diseases (Lavanya et al., 2020).

Our top pick for growing cat grass and catnip is the Calathea, Begonia and Peace Lily Super Soil. (Please note Peace Lilies are toxic to cats, use the mix for Cat Grass not Peace Lilies!) It is well-aerated and contains no chemical fertiliser. It is also boosted with a tonne of organic ingredients!

Our Calathea Super Soil can also be used for most other cat-friendly indoor plants, if you're not sure, feel free to email us with your plant species and we can double check for you.

Using the Wrong Potting Mix:

Using the wrong potting mix for cat grass and catnip can pose some risks for both the plants and your cat. Poor drainage can lead to waterlogged soil and root rot, causing the plants to wilt and eventually die. A lack of nutrients in the soil can also affect the growth of the plants, making them more susceptible to diseases. Additionally, some potting mixes may contain harmful chemicals that can be harmful to your cat if ingested.

To avoid these risks, it is important to use a potting mix that is specifically designed for cat grass and catnip or to create your own mix using recommended ingredients such as coir, perlite, and vermiculite. It is also important to choose a potting mix that is free from harmful chemicals and fertilizers to ensure the safety of your cat.

Overall, growing cat grass and catnip can be a fun and rewarding experience for both you and your cat. By using the right potting mix and being aware of any potential allergies or risks, you can help ensure that your plants thrive and your cat stays healthy and happy.

Letting your cat out to enjoy their cat grass? Try a harness!

As you encourage your cat to venture outside and savour their cat grass, it's crucial to ensure their safety and security. A reliable cat harness is an excellent tool for this purpose, offering various benefits that protect your cat and the surrounding wildlife.

Why is a Cat Harness Important?

Allowing your cat to roam outdoors can expose them to various risks, including traffic, predatory wildlife, and potential exposure to harmful substances or plants. Furthermore, cats can pose a significant threat to local wildlife, particularly birds. According to a study by the Threatened Species Recovery Hub of the Australian Government's National Environmental Science Programme, pet cats in Australia kill 230 million birds, reptiles and mammals every year (Woinarski et al., 2017). A cat harness provides a safe way for your cat to enjoy their outdoor adventures while minimising these risks.

What to Look for in a Cat Harness

When choosing a cat harness, several features are essential for your cat's comfort and safety:

• Secure Design: Look for a jacket-style harness that wraps around the cat's torso, preventing them from backing out and escaping.
• Easy to Use: Choose a harness that is easy to put on and take off. Velcro straps can often be easier to handle than buckles or clips, which can be challenging to adjust with a restless cat.
• Comfortable Material: Select a harness made of soft, lightweight material that moves with your cat's body. This prevents discomfort and doesn't restrict movement.

Our Top Pick

With these essential features in mind, our top pick is the Catventure Harness. This harness addresses common challenges cat owners face with other harness designs. Its jacket-style design ensures a secure fit, and the use of strong velcro straps allows for easy application and removal. Made from light cotton material, the Catventure Harness guarantees your cat's comfort.

It also significantly reduces the threat your cat poses to local wildlife while keeping them safe from potential outdoor hazards. This way, you are fostering a more harmonious coexistence between our cherished pets and Australia's diverse fauna. Letting your cat enjoy their cat grass or catnip outdoors can be a fantastic experience for them, provided that safety remains paramount. For more information on cat harnesses and how to train your cat to walk in one, consider visiting www.catharnessaustralia.com.au.