Is It OK For My Dog or Cat To Eat Grass?

Are you concerned when your pet eats grass, then throws up afterwards? You’ll probably feel relieved to know that dogs and cats eat grass because their bodies need it.

Pets have been eating grass for a long time. In fact, grass is so popular with dogs that one species, dog grass (also known as couch grass and quack weed), is named after them. Dog grass grows everywhere except the southern-most states.

Think of grass as an herbal medicine. It acts as an internal cleanser, expelling excess mucus, bile, and other impurities. It also cleanses the bowels and expels worms. Cereal grasses contain enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Grass also contains chlorophyll which, prior to the use of antibiotics, was used to relieve pain, treat infections, ulcers, skin diseases, and anemia.

Some pet owners grow grass specifically to give to their cats and dogs to prevent or treat diarrhea, anemia, cataracts, fleas, tumors excessive shedding, and other health problems. Pets that are fed grass on a regular basis are less likely to crave outdoor grass. So, if you don’t feel comfortable with your pet eating the grass in your lawn, consider growing your own grass for them to eat.

Try growing rye or barley sprouts instead of wheat grass because some animals are sensitive to wheat.

Here are the instructions to grow rye or barley grass. Soak one cup organically grown grain in one quart water for 8 to 10 hours. Next, drain the container and leave it on its side in a warm place, away from direct sunlight. A tiny white rootlet will sprout from each grain within 24 to 48 hours. If you don’t see these rootlets, throw away the grain because it isn’t viable.

Next, spread the sprouting grain on one inch of moist potting soil or top soil in a plastic garden tray, laving a one inch channel around the soil for drainage.

Cover the tray for two days then uncover it and water thoroughly. Place the tray in direct sunlight or under grow lights. Water when needed to keep the soil moist.

When the grass is 6-8″ tall, cut it with scissors or a sharp knife and place the grasses in a Ziploc bag, along with a damp paper towel. Be sure to expel air from the bag before sealing and storing the grass in the refrigerator.

When feeding the grass to your pet, cut or mince it into tiny pieces, or use a blender or food processor to mix a small amount with other foods. To be sure your pet will accept the grass, begin feeding just a fraction of a teaspoon. Increase the amount gradually to approximately one teaspoon for each 16 pounds of body weight.

Once your dog or cat is given the amount of grass their body needs, you can feel relieved knowing that you’re feeding them something that they crave and that their body needs. As a side benefit, they will probably stop eating your lawn grass.