Most people know about catnip, but few understand what this plant is or why it makes cats act differently.
What is catnip and how does it affect cats?
What Is Catnip?
Catnip is a mint-like herb that grows easily in North America. It has light green leaves and purple flowers.
People brew tea from catnip leaves, and its flowers help stop coughing. The plant is also used in some natural insect repellents.
What Does Catnip Do to a Cat?
Cats have a special scent organ in the roof of their mouth called the vomeronasal gland. When cats smell things through their nose and mouth, this organ sends the scent signals to their brain. This is why cats sometimes make funny faces when they smell certain things.
Catnip leaves contain a special oil called nepetalactone that affects how cats behave. Cats must sniff catnip to feel its effects.
Cats like catnip because it acts like their natural mating hormones. When cats smell catnip, they often act like female cats ready to mate, though both male and female cats react to it.
Cats may show clear signs of love, calmness, and joy. Some cats might also play more or sometimes act aggressively.
How To Use Catnip
Catnip is available in different forms, including:
- Fresh catnip (growing your catnip plant)
- Dried catnip
- Catnip sprays or bubbles
- Toys stuffed with dried catnip
Catnip sprays are safer for cats that get stomach aches from eating catnip leaves. You can use the spray on toys, cat trees, or scratching posts. You can also put dried catnip on cat furniture or coat toys with it.
Many vets suggest giving catnip to cats who get anxious when left alone at home. If your cat likes catnip, it can help them feel calmer and more comfortable while you’re away.
Does Catnip Work on All Cats?
Most cats don’t react to catnip. Research shows only about 60% of cats get excited by it. If your cat ignores catnip, try silvervine instead.
How Long Does Catnip Last?
Catnip affects cats differently, and its effects usually last about 10 minutes before slowly fading away.
A cat needs about 30 minutes away from catnip before it can react to it again.
Fresh catnip works best, so store it in a sealed container to keep it strong.
Can Kittens Have Catnip?
Catnip is safe for kittens, but most cats don’t respond to it until they’re at least 6 months old. Some cats might react differently.
Can Cats Eat Catnip? Is It Safe?
Catnip is safe for cats and might help their stomach and gut health.
Catnip has been used to treat diarrhea in humans. However, don’t let your cat eat too much catnip, as it can upset their stomach.
Can Cats Overdose on Catnip?
Cats won’t overdose from catnip, but giving them too much can make them sick. They might throw up, get diarrhea, feel dizzy, or walk funny. Use only a spoonful at a time. If unsure, ask your vet how much is right for your cat.
Fresh catnip is stronger than dried catnip, so use less of it. Avoid catnip oils, as they are too strong for cats.
