The estimates change frequently, but the most recent statistics guess that about 64% of kitties are susceptible to catnip. Hold on, though – that statistic may not hold true in Australia. Surprisingly, a higher number of our kitties seem to be immune to catnip. This is because catnip sensitivity is hereditary.
Cats love catnip because it makes them feel good. As your cat licks and rubs on the herb, the release of nepetalactone sets off a euphoric reaction. Scientists aren't sure exactly why this happens, but many believe cats are responding to the nepetalactone as though it is a pheromone.
Why Doesn't It Affect All Cats Alike? So if your kitty doesn't respond to catnip, no worries: there's nothing wrong with your cat. They simply lack the “catnip gene.” Also, be aware that while catnip is usually thought of as something that will “stir up” your cat, it can have the opposite effect, too.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) contains nepetalactone, a chemical that attracts many cats, including tigers and other wild felines. Cats typically react by rolling or chewing on the leaves, or by rubbing against the plant. They may even get a little crazy if you have traces of catnip on your shoes.
Most cats react to catnip by rolling, flipping, rubbing, and eventually zoning out. They may meow or growl at the same time. Other cats become hyperactive or downright aggressive, especially if you approach them. Usually these sessions last about 10 minutes, after which your cat loses interest.
The duration of the effect is variable, but typically lasts around 10 minutes and rarely more than 15. Interestingly, there is a refractory period with catnip; after experiencing whatever “high” they may feel, it takes about 1-2 hours before cats become susceptible again to its effects.
Key takeaway. Catnip is an herb from the mint family that elicits a playful or calm response in cats. Many cats experience euphoria and become more affectionate after inhaling catnip.
Catnip to Calm Cat Aggression
If you believe your cat is becoming anxious, try giving them some catnip. It will get them excited enough to tire them out, which can help if their aggression stems from built-up energy. Catnip infused with CBD, like Holistapet's catnip spray, may provide even better results.
Do All Cats Respond to Catnip? Unfortunately, no. It has been noted in scientific literature that about 50-70 percent of cats show the positive response to catnip.
– Honeysuckle, Silver Vine, and Valerian are incredible catnip alternatives for cats who (like my cat Bear) just don't like catnip. – These plant blends are perfect to refill Space Kitty Express mice or Jackson's refillable kicker!
Because of the potentially stimulating and sedative effects of this herb, it is not recommended to offer catnip to cats that are: prone to seizures. on sedative medications.
Consider these benefits: Used appropriately, catnip can trigger positive natural responses in some cats, including excitement, euphoria, and relaxation. Catnip can energize some cats, encouraging physical activity.
Some cats prefer dried catnip to fresh. If you have fresh catnip, you may ask yourself, can cats eat catnip leaves? While it is safe to consume catnip leaves, you should be sure to monitor your plant to make sure your cat is not eating too much. Fresh catnip is thought to be easier on your cat's mouth.
If cats are given nepetalactone often and consistently, they may become less sensitive to it. It's recommended to limit the use of catnip with your furry friends to about once every two to three weeks in order to prevent habituation. It should also be noted that very young cats may not appear sensitive to catnip.
While catnip is non-addictive, its effect can dull due to overexposure. So, while the occasional catnip “high” might be fun, it's best to avoid a daily catnip routine with your cat. The effects also start to decline as your cat ages. You won't see the overly exaggerated response you're used to with older cats.
Cats love to bite, chew, roll over, rub against, and huff the aroma of catnip. This adorable behavior, which can turn them into either drooly and zonked-out or hyperactive and spicy little creatures is their natural response to nepetalactol.
Smelling catnip typically triggers an energetic response, causing some cats to go nuts and zoom around, however if a cat were to eat and digest the herb, it often has the opposite effect, causing the cat to mellow out and calm down.
If the cat doesn't like drinking water, you can add some catnip to the water. Don't use too much at one time, just a small amount like a thumb nail. To prevent the cat from choking, it is best to crush the catnip in advance and add it to the cat's drinking water to attract the cat to drink.
Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, is the senior director of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. She says both fresh and dried versions of catnip are considered safe for dogs. That said, if your dog chows down on a catnip plant, its essential oils might cause him to feel icky.
Meowijuana Purrple Passion Catnip Buds are 100 organic and safe for your cat, made from the finest and most fragrant Catnip Blossoms. These all natural catnip buds are harvested at the peak of the plant's essential oil production, giving your cats the best high they deserve.
Cupful amounts of catnip tea have been consumed without serious side effects. However, catnip is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when smoked or taken by mouth in high doses (many cups of catnip tea, for example). It can cause headaches, vomiting, and a feeling of being ill.
A member of the mint family, Nepeta cataria L. (aka catnip) grows throughout the United States. The plant features small, lavender flowers and jagged, heart-shaped leaves that smell faintly of mint.
Choosing USDA-certified organic catnip is a good way to ensure your kitty's treat wasn't grown with chemicals and pesticides. That's especially important if your cat likes to eat the herb directly. Usually, organic catnip is slightly more expensive than non-organic products.
Calming spray for cats: A few spritzes of a calming pheromone spray on a towel or blanket in your cat's carrier could help your cat relax into the ride. Catnip: A little catnip sprinkled into the carrier could distract your cat for a bit and keep them entertained. You might try catnip spray, also.
Nepetalactone, an essential oil found in the catnip plant, stimulates cats in ways that are similar to how cannabis affects humans, according to MyPetNaturally.com. When cats ingest or rub themselves with catnip, nepetalactone triggers a euphoric reaction, which makes cats feel good, according to Purina.