How often should I give my cat wheatgrass?

Introduction

Wheatgrass is the young grass of the common wheat plant, Triticum aestivum. It contains high concentrations of chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. Many people consume wheatgrass juice or powder for its perceived health benefits. Some pet owners also give wheatgrass to their cats, believing it may provide nutritional and health benefits. But how often should you give your cat wheatgrass? Here is a comprehensive guide to wheatgrass for cats.

The Nutritional Benefits of Wheatgrass for Cats

Wheatgrass contains a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that may provide health benefits for cats:

• Chlorophyll – Wheatgrass contains high levels of chlorophyll, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and detoxification properties.
• Vitamins – It provides vitamins A, C, E, K, and B complex vitamins.
• Minerals – Wheatgrass contains iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, selenium, and amino acids.
• Enzymes – It provides enzymes like SOD (superoxide dismutase) and cytochrome oxidase which support the body’s metabolic processes.
• Fiber – The fiber in wheatgrass may aid digestive regularity.
• Antioxidants – It contains beta-carotene, flavonoids, and other antioxidants that combat oxidative stress.

The nutrients and plant compounds in wheatgrass may provide benefits like:

• Improving digestion
• Boosting immunity
• Providing antioxidant protection
• Increasing energy levels
• Aiding detoxification
• Combating inflammation
• Promoting healthy skin and coat

So by providing vital nutrients, enzymes, and antioxidants, wheatgrass may support overall health and wellness in cats.

Ways to Give Cats Wheatgrass

There are a few different methods for providing your cat with wheatgrass:

• Wheatgrass juice – Juicing fresh wheatgrass produces a concentrated, bright green liquid containing its nutrients and plant compounds. The juice can be diluted and added to your cat’s water or food.
• Wheatgrass powder – Dried, ground wheatgrass can be easily mixed into wet or dry cat food.
• Wheatgrass tablets/capsules – Some companies produce wheatgrass in tablet or capsule form that may be easier to give your cat than the juice or powder.
• Freeze-dried wheatgrass – Another option is freeze-dried wheatgrass, which retains more nutrients than standard drying methods. It can be crumbled over food.
• Live wheatgrass – You can grow wheatgrass at home and let your cat nibble on the fresh living blades. But only allow access for short periods to prevent overindulgence.

When introducing wheatgrass, start slowly with small amounts to see how your cat tolerates it. Mix it into their favorite wet foods to mask any taste differences initially. Once accustomed to the flavor, you can increase serving sizes. But let your cat’s appetite guide how much wheatgrass they need.

How Much Wheatgrass Should I Give My Cat?

There are no definitive guidelines for how much wheatgrass to give a cat. As with any supplement, the appropriate wheatgrass dosage depends on your cat’s individual health status, size, and preferences. Here are some general wheatgrass dosage tips for cats:

• Cats under 10 lbs – 1/4 tsp powder or juice per day, or approximately 10-20mg tablet/capsule
• Cats 10-15 lbs – 1/2 tsp powder or juice per day, or approximately 20-40mg tablet/capsule
• Cats over 15 lbs – 3/4 tsp powder or juice per day, or approximately 40-55mg tablet/capsule

When using fresh wheatgrass, let your cat nibble for 1-2 minutes per day.

Start slowly and divide the daily amount between morning and evening feedings. Monitor your cat’s appetite and stool quality, reducing the dosage if they show decreased appetite or digestive upset.

For therapeutic use of wheatgrass, slightly higher doses may be warranted. But consult your veterinarian before increasing beyond general supplemental amounts.

How Often Should I Give My Cat Wheatgrass?

For maintenance of general health, wheatgrass can be given to cats daily or several times a week. Here are some guidelines on frequency:

• Kittens – Every day.
• Adult cats – 3-5 times per week.
• Senior cats – Daily or every other day.
• Sick cats – Twice daily, depending on the condition being treated.
• Healthy cats – 1-3 times weekly as a preventative supplement.

When first introducing wheatgrass, start with a low frequency like 2-3 times per week. Monitor for any digestive upset. Then gradually increase the serving days based on your cat’s needs and tolerance.

Splitting the daily wheatgrass dose between two feedings can help minimize any stomach upset when increasing frequency.

Adjust the frequency for kittens and seniors since their dietary needs differ from adult cats. Kittens can benefit from wheatgrass every day while growing. And senior cats may need the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of wheatgrass more regularly to combat health conditions associated with aging.

For cats with medical issues like cancer, kidney disease, UTIs, or gastrointestinal problems, discuss supplementing with wheatgrass more often with your veterinarian. Therapeutic use may require consistent daily dosing in divided amounts to provide concentrated nutritional and antioxidant support. Monitor your ill cat closely and be prepared to scale back if they show signs of intolerance.

What Are the Side Effects of Wheatgrass in Cats?

Wheatgrass is considered very safe for cats, with minimal risk of side effects. But some possible adverse reactions include:

• Appetite changes – Wheatgrass may initially cause decreased or increased appetite as your cat adjusts to the new flavor and nutrients.
• Digestive upset – Diarrhea or vomiting may occur if too much is given before the body acclimates. Start with small amounts.
• Allergies – Wheatgrass allergies are rare but possible if your cat is sensitive to wheat/grass products. Discontinue use if allergy symptoms develop.
• Constipation – The fiber content may cause constipation in some cats, especially if dehydrated. Ensure adequate water intake.
• Pregnancy/nursing – Safety is unknown for pregnant or nursing cats. Use caution or avoid use.

Signs of intolerance include appetite loss, vomiting, diarrhea, bowel irritation, or skin irritation. Stop giving wheatgrass and see your vet if any adverse reactions occur.

To be safe, start with small amounts of wheatgrass and slowly work up to the full supplemental dose. Also, don’t substitute wheatgrass for your cat’s regular diet without veterinary approval. Use wheatgrass as an addition to a nutritionally balanced diet, not a replacement.

Key Takeaways on Wheatgrass for Cats

Here are the key points to remember about giving your cat wheatgrass:

• Start slowly with small amounts to gauge tolerance.
• Mix into wet food to improve palatability.
• Divide daily dosage between morning and evening.
• Adjust frequency based on your cat’s needs and health status.
• Reduce dosage if appetite decreases or stool problems arise.
• Don’t replace balanced meals, only supplement.
• Consult your vet before using for therapeutic purposes.

When used properly, wheatgrass can be a nutritious supplement for cats. Pay attention to your cat’s individual responses and adjust the amount and frequency accordingly. With a little patience, wheatgrass can become a beneficial addition to your cat’s diet.

The Bottom Line

Wheatgrass offers nutritional and health benefits for many cats. Most cats can tolerate and benefit from wheatgrass supplements 1-5 times per week. Therapeutic use for medical conditions may require more frequent dosing. Start slowly with small amounts to gauge tolerance. Divide doses between morning and evening feedings. Adjust frequency and quantity based on your cat’s needs and response. When given properly, wheatgrass is a safe, natural way to provide your feline companion with extra nutritional support.

Wheatgrass Serving Size Recommendations

Cat Weight	Powder/Juice Amount	Tablet/Capsule Mg	Fresh Wheatgrass
Under 10 lbs	1/4 tsp daily	10-20 mg daily	1-2 mins nibbling
10-15 lbs	1/2 tsp daily	20-40 mg daily	1-2 mins nibbling
Over 15 lbs	3/4 tsp daily	40-55 mg daily	1-2 mins nibbling