How to Grow a Garden Your Cat Will Love
Read time: 5 min
Your cat thinks they rule the house. (And, let’s be honest, they do.) But how about extending their domain into the garden? Whether they go outside or not. Sow these plants now to reap a feline-friendly harvest in just a few months.
Catnip: The Good Stuff
Let’s start with a classic. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) sends many cats into a euphoric frenzy. Some will roll in it. Others will explode into a zoomies. A few will just bliss out.
How to get it: You can buy catnip seeds online or from garden centers. If patience isn’t your thing (or your cat is already giving you side-eye), opt for a small potted plant instead.
When to plant: Sow seeds in spring, when the soil starts to warm up. Or plant seedlings any time between spring and early autumn.
How to care for it: Catnip loves sunshine and well-draining soil. So water it regularly. But don’t drown it — think ‘hydrated glow,’ not ‘soaking wet mess.’ If your cat gets too enthusiastic and flattens it, plant extras. So there’s always a backup stash.
Cat Grass: The Daily Greens
If your cat treats your houseplants like a salad bar, cat grass (Dactylis glomerata or Avena sativa) is the perfect distraction. It’s safe, easy to grow, and can help with digestion. (And watching a cat nibble on grass is weirdly adorable.)
How to get it: Cat grass kits (complete with seeds and soil) are available in most pet stores. Or you can buy oat, wheat, or barley grass seeds separately.
When to plant: Anytime, anywhere. It grows indoors or outdoors, year-round.
How to care for it: Water it lightly. Keep it in bright indirect light. And trim it back if it starts looking wild. Re-seed every couple of weeks to keep a fresh supply coming.
Valerian: The Sleepytime Treat
Not all cats react to catnip. But valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is an excellent alternative. It has a similar effect — cue the rolling and purring — with the added bonus of helping anxious or stressed cats relax.
How to get it: Buy valerian seeds online or from specialist herb suppliers. Some garden centers may stock young plants too.
When to plant: Start seeds indoors in early spring. Then move them outside once the risk of frost is gone.
How to care for it: Valerian grows best in full sun or partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. It can get tall, so give it some space. And yes, it does have a strong smell. But your cat will think it’s divine.
Top Tips
Pick a safe spot. Keep your cat’s garden away from any toxic plants, pesticides, or busy roads.
Mix it up. Grow plants in pots, raised beds, or even window boxes if you’re short on space.
With a little effort (and a lot of love), you can create a feline-friendly oasis. And grow your own enrichment aids, while you’re at it.