Cats are notoriously curious. They are also known for chowing down on plants and all sorts of things they come across. As you are plotting out this year’s gardening options, take a moment to consider your cat’s interests.
The Regional Animal Protection Society Cat Sanctuary has decades of experience planting for felines. But you don’t need a sprawling acreage like the sanctuary has. One of the great things about planning a “cat garden” is that this advice works for bachelor apartments just as easily. Small containers can give cats a thrill every time they walk by.
Here are some common plants your cats will thank you for:
- Catnip (Nepeta cataria): This is a “well, duh,” suggestion. Anyone who has seen Harold rolling in the stuff wishes there was a human analog.
- Cat grass (Dactylis glomerata): Options like wheatgrass or oat grass are not only harmless to cats but can aid in digestion. They are easy-peasy to grow indoors.
- Valerian (Valeriana officinalis): Valerian is an herb like catnip that can give cats a pleasant stimulating effect.
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Spider plants are non-toxic to cats and have the added bonus of long, trailing leaves that cats can bat at, toy with or chew.
- Cat thyme (Teucrium marum): Cat thyme has a strong scent that attracts cats and encourages friskiness.
- Catmint (Nepeta faassenii): Another relative of catnip, catmint produces little lavender-coloured flowers that are, well, catnip to some felines.
- Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus): Here’s one you and Rumpleteazer can both enjoy. Lemongrass is a citrusy herb that is safe for cats and is handy for your southeast Asian cooking too.
- Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Bamboo plants are fine for cats to chew on and can add some nice visuals to your indoor or outdoor spaces
During your visit to the plant nursery this month, consider one or two of these options to make sure you and Simba can both enjoy the flourishing season.
