Herbs are not just for humans. Cats love grass too. Do you always watch the cat playing with the mouse granddaughter or purring around under the granddaughter’s bush? Do you know that cats love to eat grass, looking for green nature, when their body needs vitamins or is sick? And for pet owners looking for a natural way to get rid of fleas, the flea herb is the perfect solution. Here are three favorite herbs for cats; how to grow and how to use them.
Nepeta, Nepeta Cataria, is members of the mental family. There is an old proverb; “If you plant it, the cats will eat it, if you plant the seed, the cats will not know.” According to this, if the seeds of the plants are attracted to the seeds, cats will not be attracted to the plant. I have cats and I have both grandchildren from division and grandchildren planted from seed. I have seen no difference in the way cats who love grass behave. The difference comes with the cat and their genetics. Some cats love the litter, while others may take it or leave it.
Bryonia grows between 1 and 3 feet tall, with heart-shaped leaves and white flowers. The herb is a hardy perennial and prefers full to partial soil and good drainage. Harvest the leaves when the plant is in flower and dry in a dark, well-ventilated place. I use dried leaves and cut them into pieces in the shape of a wall.
Any cat lover who has had their feline friends eat their houseplants knows how frustrating it can be. Cats innately know when their bodies need vitamins and minerals and will go for houseplants if there is no other source of green grass around.
Many pet stores have started selling falafel for this reason. That labeled cat wheat grass usually sprouts berries. It is full of chlorophyll, enzymes, anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals. Cats love and with full benefits, it will help in removal of hair hair and rough add to food. To save money purchase seeds from the garden center and grow your own.
Looking for a natural flea repellent for your pet? Look no further for the steering wheel. Pennyroyal is a member of the mint family and has been used since ancient times as a insect repellent. Rub the fresh leaves on your cat’s coat, or make a pet collar from the dried leaves. It can be done by pouring boiling water over the leaves, fresh or dried, and allowing the leaves to soak for 15 minutes. Use infusion for fleas or other insects spray.
The European mulberry is a perennial and is grown from cuttings or transplants. American mullein is annual and can be planted from seed. It will either leave the cat smelling minty fresh or flea free.
Fountain; Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs 1987 Rodale Press
