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NATURAL
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Why
Does My Pet Eat Grass?
By Deena Caruso
Are you concerned
when your dog or cat eats grass, then throws up afterwards?
You'll probably feel relieved to know that pets eat grass because
their bodies need it.
Dogs and cats have been eating grass for a long time. In fact, grass is so
popular among dogs that one species, dog grass, is named after them. Dog grass
is also known as couch grass and quackweed, and it grows in all but the southernmost
states.
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You can think of grass as an herbal
medicine. It acts as an internal
cleanser, expelling excess mucus, bile and other impurities.
It also cleanses the bowels
and expels worms. Cereal grasses contain enzymes, vitamins,
minerals and amino acids. Grass also contains chlorophyll,
which was used for relieving pain, treating infections, ulcers,
skin diseases and anemia prior to the use of antibiotics.
Some pet owners grow grass specifically to give to their pets
to prevent or treat diarrhea, anemia, cataracts, fleas, tumors
excessive shedding and other pet health
problems. Pets that are fed grass on a regular basis are less likely to crave
outdoor grass. So, if you don't feel comfortable with your pet eating the grass
in your lawn, you may want to grow your own grass for them to eat.
Grow your own grass
Try growing rye or barley sprouts. These sprouts are preferred
over wheat grass
because some animals are sensitive to wheat.
Follow these instructions
to grow rye or barley grass. Soak one cup organically grown
grain in one quart water for eight to 10 hours. Then drain
the container and leave it on its side in a warm place, away
from direct sunlight. A tiny white rootlet will sprout from
each grain within 24 to 48 hours. Caution: If you don't see
these rootlets, your grain isn't viable and should be thrown
away.
Next, spread the
sprouting grain on one inch of moist potting soil or top soil
in a plastic garden tray. For drainage, create a one-inch channel
around the soil. For two days, cover the tray. Then uncover
it, and water thoroughly.
Place the tray in
direct sunlight or under grow lights. Keep the soil moist by
watering when needed. When the grass is 6-8" tall, cut
it with scissors or a sharp knife. Place grasses in a plastic
zipper bag, along with a damp paper towel. Be sure to expel
air from the bag before sealing. Then store the grass in the
refrigerator.
Serving grass
When feeding the grass to your pet, cut or mince it into tiny pieces or place
a small amount in a blender or food processor with other foods. To be sure
your cat or dog will accept the grass, begin feeding just a fraction of
a teaspoon. Increase the amount gradually to approximately one tablespoon
per 50 pounds of body weight.
Once your pet is
given the amount of grass his body needs, you probably won't
be seeing him eating the grass in your lawn. And you can feel
relieved knowing that you're feeding him something that he
craves and that his body needs
© Deena Caruso
Deena Caruso, author, teacher
and distributor of natural pet products, helps pet owners create
healthy, happy pets. To receive free "Pet Pointers" newsletter,
go to: www.healthyfoodforpets.com or
contact deecaruso @ cox.net, (760) 758-7963 or (877) 877-0665.
