Instead of seeing your favorite plants suffer the fate of the curious claw, try growing plants especially appealing to cats, with attractive aromas, chemical curiosities and all-around interest for a cat on the hunt for your houseplants.
Catnip
This member of the mint family has earned its reputation as a favorite for cats. Although its intoxicating effects only affect about 50% of cats, those who love it are sure to let you know. Catnip is nontoxic, easy to grow and drives many cats to joyful frenzy.
Valerian
Its clustered white flowers will attract pollinators to the yard and its root is sometimes employed as a calmative and sleep aid in humans, but this pungent plant is also a stimulant for cats and triggers a response similar to that of catnip. Although valerian is sometimes used in perfumes, some find the odor objectionable.
Cat Thyme
This slow-grower is another surprisingly feline stimulant and is often effective with cats for which catnip has no impact. Blooms in summer with strong-scented pink flowers.
Licorice Root
Cats love the taste of this familiar root, but it also happens to be very good for their health. An anti-inflammatory, licorice root can sooth an arthritic animal, promotes liver health and can help resolve digestive issues.
Cat Grass
Cat grass refers to any number of cat-friendly grasses, including wheat, oat and barley grasses. Although these grasses are not stimulants like catnip, cats are drawn to occasionally eat small amounts. Good for digestion, an aid in resolving hairballs and providing nutrients less common in pet foods, cat grass is a easy and attractive way to support kitty health.
Lemongrass
A mild stimulant that offers the same benefits of some of the other cat-appropriate grasses, lemongrass is a favorite to have around for cats and humans alike. Easy to cultivate indoors or out.
Mint
Cats love the smell of mint and mint plants are easy and prolific growers, making it a popular choice when feline destruction is at hand. Cats are more likely to sniff and roll around in mint than eat it, but peppermint may cause an upset tummy in cats if eaten in large amounts.
By cultivating these plants, cat owners can create an enriching and enjoyable space for their furry friends, promoting their physical and mental stimulation. Moreover, the act of gardening and tending to these plants can be a therapeutic and fulfilling activity for humans as well. Overall, growing catnip, lemon grass, and mint is a wonderful way to enhance the lives of cats and their owners while fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Wow this is so helpful! Thank you for sharing these great plants to keep cats away from our beloved houseplants. I think itβs really cool how there are plants that appeal to cats and are also good for their health. Iβm definitely going to give them a try. Thanks again!
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Wow, thanks for giving us this informative guide! Itβs great to know that there are plants that appeal to cats, and that we can grow them in our homes. Catnip, valerian, cat thyme, and licorice root sound like an interesting selection! Thanks for the helpful advice!
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You’re welcome!
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