Cat Grass vs. Catnip: What Are the Differences?

If you have a feline friend then you’ve surely heard of catnip — that plant that has a euphoric effect on cats (and in some cases makes them almost high). So, when we hear the word “cat grass” it might be easy to assume that it is simply another name for catnip or even something that has a similar effect on cats. However, cat grass is actually something completely different. But what is it, and what are the differences between the two? Let’s discover everything you need to know about cat grass vs. catnip!

Comparing Catnip vs. Cat Grass

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a plant within the Lamiaceae family group, which is commonly known as the mint or sage family. Most of the plants in the family are known for being highly aromatic. Catnip is a member of the Nepeta genus of which there are approximately 250 species and several of them —including catnip — are renowned for their effect on cats.

Cat grass is not a specific species of grass. Instead, it is a grass mixture that is grown — usually indoors — specifically for household pets such as cats.

The 4 Key Differences Between Cat Grass and Catnip

The main difference between cat grass and catnip is that one is an herbaceous plant while the other is a specifically grown grass mixture. The other differences include their size, appearance, and their effect on cats. Catnip is much larger than cat grass and develops small flowers every year. It also has a mind-altering effect on cats while cat grass does not.

Cat Grass vs Catnip: Origin

As we’ve already mentioned, catnip is a specific species — Nepeta cataria — while cat grass is not. Catnip is native to Asia, China, the Middle East, and southern and eastern Europe, although it has also been introduced to many other places. It grows naturally in woodlands, meadows, pastures, wastelands, and even along roadsides.

Cat grass is a specifically grown grass mix that is usually created from oats, wheat, barley, and rye. It is typically grown indoors and has been created and marketed specifically for household pets such as cats.

Cat Grass vs. Catnip: Size

The most noticeable difference between cat grass and catnip is their size. Catnip grows to approximately two to three feet high and the same width. However, cat grass only grows to a height of around four inches.

Cat Grass vs. Catnip: Appearance

Another distinctive difference between these two is what they look like. Cat grass looks visually similar to lawn grass (although it is important to remember that they are not the same). It grows as thin green stalks — usually in small pots.

We’ve already mentioned the size of catnip, but it becomes a mass of stunning green foliage. Its leaves are green and heart-shaped with highly serrated edges, and it develops flowers every summer. The flowers are typically white with small purple spots, which give them a unique appearance. Also, rather than developing fruit, catnip grows small pods that typically have four reddish-brown seeds in them.

Cat Grass vs. Catnip: Effect on Cats

The most important difference between cat grass and catnip is their effect on cats. Catnip is well-known for triggering a mind-altering response from approximately 50% of cats. This is because it produces nepetalactone which is a compound that cats react to. Cats detect nepetalactone through their olfactory epithelium which then binds to their olfactory receptors. Most cats react to it by rubbing themselves over the plant and rolling on the ground, as well as licking and chewing it. Quite often they can act like a female in heat. In some cases, cats can become hyperactive and run and jump around. The effects will wear off after a short while — usually around 30 minutes. However, if the cat chews or eats the plant then it can act as a sedative and make them sleepy.

Cat grass doesn’t have any kind of effect on cats. However, it can be useful to them. If you have a cat that likes to chew on your house plants, or you have an outdoor kitty that likes to have a little taste test of your garden plants, then cat grass is a safe alternative as it can prevent them from chewing on something that could be harmful. Chewing on cat grass is also a great way to push out hairballs, or even avoid them in the first place. This is because it works as a laxative and helps to keep cats’ digestive systems working.

Up Next:

• Silver Vine vs Catnip: What Are The Differences?
• The Science Behind Catnip: What It Does To Cats
• Why Do Cats Eat Grass, And What Should You Do About It

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