Cats love to eat a treat that is different from their food. Whenever they can, they go after some bush to enjoy or even entertain themselves and relax. Although not all plants are suitable for pets, cats can eat lemongrass Find out here! and enjoy its benefits!
Also known as lemon balm, lemongrass, or lemongrass, it is considered a medicinal plant due to the numerous benefits it brings to the health of people, but also to cats. Originally from India, but widely cultivated in our country, lemongrass has long, pale, rough, and very aromatic green leaves. The smell it gives off is similar to lemon, which is why it attracts many kittens.
Benefits of lemongrass for cats
Fortunately, the cat can eat lemongrass without harming its health, but it is up to the owner to always be careful that the cat eats the herb as something complementary to its diet, and not as its main food.
Among the benefits most easily observed in pets that eat lemon balm is the calming effect. For cats that are more agitated or that are going through a moment of stress, such as moving house, or the arrival of a new animal or person in the family, the plant can help them become more relaxed, but it is not a sure thing and contact with a veterinarian is essential. in these cases.
How to offer lemongrass to your cat
Cats can eat lemongrass in its natural form, in a small pot at home, or in the garden. This way, the cat, in addition to benefiting from the plant’s health properties, also has fun choosing the best leaves.
Another way to offer lemongrass is by preparing a delicious tea. Some cats like it, others don’t, but it’s worth trying. You should separate some leaves from the herb and leave it to infuse for five to ten minutes. Strain and offer warm or cold.
The recommendation is that doses of 15 to 30 ml should only be offered once or twice a week, but without forcing acceptance by the pet. Although lemongrass is among the plants that cats can eat, remember to always consult a veterinarian for better guidance, as there are pets that may have restrictions depending on their health.
How to plant lemongrass at home
Lemon balm is an easy-to-grow plant, therefore, it is a good option to have at home, whether in a pot or in the ground. The best time to plant lemongrass is when the temperature is cooler, but as it is a very resistant plant, it can also grow in summer.
Choose a large pot, at least 15 to 20 cm deep, and quality soil. Plant grass seed or plant seedlings. Water it weekly and within six weeks it will grow.
When the plant reaches a good size, the cat can eat lemongrass. Eventually, in winter or when the plant “finishes” the plant, it may die, but it will naturally grow back in spring.
Care for lemongrass should be like that of other plants, keeping the soil fertilized, and free of fungi and other pests so as not to harm the cat’s health. Always remove dry leaves and keep the soil moist as needed.
Other Herbs Cats Can Eat
In addition to lemongrass, there are other edible plants for cats. They can also be planted at home or purchased in pet stores, being known as cat herbs.
Having some of them at home is good because one complements the benefits of the other. Furthermore, the cat can choose which one to eat. Apart from the health benefits, they can also be used in everyday life for the whole family and enrich the environment. See some options:
- catnip ;
- Camila;
- rosemary;
- parsley;
- mint;
- valerian;
- popcorn corn;
- coriander.
Herbs that cats cannot eat
Although lemon balm and other plants mentioned in the text are allowed for cats to eat, others, however, can cause serious health problems, especially poisoning. As these cats are very curious, we need to pay attention to what we have at home to avoid further problems.
Plants that are toxic to cats can cause vomiting, apathy, skin irritation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, intense salivation, etc. Each organism can have a reaction, which varies according to the amount and type of plant the pet ate. To avoid any harm to your furry friend’s health, keep him away from:
- night’s Lady;
- tulip;
- Nobody can with me;
- a glass of milk;
- Saint George’s sword;
- hydrangea;
- anthurium;
- azalea;
- crown of Christ.