Just like humans, cats benefit greatly from spending time outdoors. But, it’s understandable if you don’t feel comfortable letting your feline friend outside for fear that they won’t come back. It’s because of this that cat owners walk a thin line between wanting to do what’s best for their cats, while also preserving their safety. One such alternative to going outside is by bringing the outside…inside! With a cat grass lounger, your cat can get in touch with their senses while giving you peace of mind that they’re protected.
Ever since the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021, DIY projects have become the new normal. While there are a bunch of indoor cat grass loungers available online, making one yourself allows you to flex those creative muscles and add a personalized touch to something your cat is going to get a lot of use out of.
Ready to get started? Here’s how you can make your own indoor cat grass lounger.
What is a Cat Grass Lounger?
But first — what exactly is a grass lounger? Well, it’s pretty much exactly how it sounds. Cat grass loungers (sometimes referred to as grass beds) are large bins or storage containers used to grow real grass for your indoor cat to touch, smell, and lay in. These eco-friendly loungers give your cats an opportunity to indulge in the sights and smells of nature without ever having to go outside.
What You’ll Need to Make a Cat Grass Lounger
If you’re interested in making an interior grass bed, you’ll need the following:
- A bin or storage container. This could even be a brand new kitty litter tray or a large baking sheet. You just need something big enough for them to sleep in.
- Potting soil
- Cat-friendly grass seeds such as barley, oat, or rye.
Ryegrass is usually preferred because of how well it bounces back after your cats curl up on it. It also has a thinner texture than the other types of grass, making them more enjoyable and relaxing for your cat to sleep on. Remember, you should only buy grass seeds that will be safe for your cat to munch on. Always do your research on what is considered safe and acceptable and if you have any questions, you can always turn to your vet for some helpful answers.
How to Make An Indoor Grass Bed for Your Cat
Now that you’ve gathered your supplies, here’s how you can assemble your cat’s new grass bed:
- Add soil to your chosen container approximately 2” from the top. Add grass seeds and then cover with about ¼” of soil.
- Gently water the seeds, but not enough to dislodge them. Once the water is moist, cover it with some plastic wrap and poke holes in the top for air circulation.
- Store in a cool, dark place to allow time for the seeds to grow. You should start to see sprouts over the course of the next few days. Once you see the sprouts, remove plastic wrap and check the soil. If it’s moist, leave it be. If it’s dry, add a bit more water to help the seedlings grow. Just be sure to not overwater it, as this could kill your grass completely.
- Put the container in a spot that gets a lot of direct and indirect sunlight, such as in your window.
- Once the grass measures above 4”, trim it down. The longer the grass is, the easier it’ll be for your cat to destroy the grass.
And that’s it! You’ve made your cat their very own grass bed. Pretty neat, right? Most homemade cat grass lounges last for a few weeks, maybe a few months if it’s in a well-lit area. Just like with regular plants, once the grass starts turning brown, it’s time to start the process over again.
Benefits of Grass Beds for Cats
Domesticated house cats aren’t usually able to stimulate all of their natural senses the way they would if they were outside. This is one of the major benefits of making your cat their own grass bed or lounger.
By being able to see, touch, and smell the grass, they’re using senses they don’t always get to when they’re cooped up indoors. Furthermore, the ability to lay down in the grass has many physical and mental health benefits. Studies show that walking barefoot on grass increases your mental health, reduces insomnia, and regulates your heart. While these studies were aimed at humans, it goes to show that there are a lot of healing and soothing qualities that stem from being able to touch and play in the grass.
For your cat, they simply love to be in it and pretend that they’re in the wild. Furthermore, the cat-friendly grass you use is a great way to make sure they don’t nibble on your other houseplants, many of which are toxic to cats. Cat grass beds are especially beneficial for those who live in apartment buildings or in busy, metropolitan areas where letting your cat outdoors wouldn’t be smart or safe.
Cat Grass Beds Can Reduce Your Cat’s Stress Level (And Yours)
If your cat is an anxious little ball of fur who’s always getting into stuff they shouldn’t or clawing every piece of cloth furniture you own, a cat grass lounge is a great way to mellow them out. And cost-effectively, too. Not only will it relax them, but it will help them de-stress. Oftentimes, when cats act out, they’re doing so because they’re stressed out about a noise, unfamiliar smell, other animals inside the house, or a new environment. These are great options for cat owners looking to try something different to help their cats adjust to an otherwise stressful situation.
Have You Ever Used a Cat Grass Bed or Lounger?
Have you ever used a cat grass bed or made your own? After reading this, do you think you’ll be more inclined to? Let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for tips and tricks about cats.