Wheat
Triticum aestivum · Poaceae
How it looks
An upright annual grass growing to 60–120 cm, distinguished by the long awns on its seed heads. The leaves are narrow, linear, and hairless. Native to a range from western Asia to India; grown as young shoots for pets.
No toxicity data available
Wheat is not listed in the ASPCA's toxic plants list for cats, and NC State Extension has no toxicity data for it either. With no confirmed evidence either way, we cannot call it safe — exercise caution if your cat has access to it.
Guide for parents
Wheat has no official toxicity data, so it is hard to say for certain whether it is safe.
Wheat shoots are sold as "cat grass" alongside oat and barley shoots. The three are different species, but they are grown and offered in the same way.
The fact that people consume wheatgrass powder is not evidence about cats. What this app treats as grounds for calling something safe is a pet-specific toxicity assessment, and wheat does not appear in one.
Shoots are easiest to chew at about 10–15 cm, before the blades toughen. A large amount at once can bring on vomiting, so keep portions small, and replace the whole tray if standing water leads to mold. Contact your vet if anything seems off.
Details
- Scientific name
- Triticum aestivum
- Common name
- Wheat
- Family
- Poaceae
- Source
- No confirmed source — not listed by ASPCA or NC State Extension
Also known as
Related plants
Same plant family· Poaceae
Related guides
Top 10 Flowers Dangerous to Cats — The Ones You See at Florists
Ten flowers you'll commonly find at florists and grocery stores that are toxic to cats. Check before you receive them, and before you bring them home.
Got a Bouquet? What to Do If You Have a Cat
A bouquet is a lovely surprise — but if you live with a cat, there are a few things to take care of right away. From checking what's in the arrangement to choosing the right vase, here's what actually helps, in order.
Why Cats Chew Plants, and How to Stop It
A cat chewing and tearing at plants isn't just mischief — there's an instinct behind it. Once you understand why, the ways to stop it follow naturally.