What Exactly Is Catnip?

Discussing What Exactly Catnip Is, How It Affects Cats, And Whether Or Not It Is Safe For Your Cat

Most cat owners are aware of the existence of catnip. But, few people know what catnip actually is or what it does. It’s one of those things that is so normalized in pet society that most people rarely question it. But, just because it’s normalized doesn’t mean it is safe or good for cats. 

The purpose of this article is to take an in-depth look into catnip. This article will go over what catnip is, where it comes from, how it affects cats, and whether or not it is safe and/or practical for cats. 

Catnip Defined

According to PetMD, catnip’s true name is Nepeta Cataria. It is a common herb that is part of the mint family (Labiatae). This perennial herb is native to Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and parts of China. Catnip grows to about 3 feet tall, has small, saw-toothed edge leaves, and its flowers bloom from late spring to autumn. 

This plant is often used in gardens because it is deer resistant, drought-tolerant, and deters mosquitos. Additionally, it also attracts butterflies. The leaves can be used to make teas, the flowers are known to relieve coughs, and the plant itself is sometimes used as the main ingredient in natural bug sprays. In short, catnip is a very versatile and useful plant. 

Active Ingredient In Catnip

There is an oil in the catnip plant’s leaves called Nepetalactone. This oil is what causes behavioral changes in cats. However, for this to happen, a cat has to smell the catnip first. 

How Does Catnip Work?

Cats experience catnip in a very unique way. This is because cats have an extra scent organ located in the roof of their mouth called the vomeronasal gland. The vomeronasal gland acts as a pathway that allows scents collected in the mouth and nose to be carried directly to the brain. When your cat plays with catnip, the scent enters their nose and/or mouth and is carried through the vomeronasal gland to their brain.

Essentially, the Nepetalactone oil triggers receptors in the brain that induce a happy or “high” feeling. This is because catnip mimics feline sex hormones. However, cats will only experience this feeling once they are six months old as in old enough to reproduce. 

How Cats React To Catnip

A cat’s reaction to catnip will vary depending on their genetics. The A.E.R.C.M. (Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota) reports that only 75% of cats are receptive to Nepetalactone. The other 25% of cats will have little to no reaction. However, the 75% of cats that are receptive will display some unique behavior. 

Common behavioral reactions to catnip include lick, rubbing, and rolling around in the product. Additionally, cats exposed to catnip will show overt signs of affection, relaxation, and overall happiness. However, some cats will display more active behaviors including playfulness or even aggression. 

Is Catnip Good For Cats?

How cats respond to catnip will vary from cat to cat. You won’t know how your cat reacts to catnip until you try exposing it to them. If your cat has a positive reaction to catnip, then it can be good for them. Studies show that catnip can reduce anxiety and relieve pain. However, if your cat does not have a positive reaction to catnip, then it is not advised to give them more. 

Additionally, catnip is safe for cats to eat. Some studies show that catnip can be helpful for their digestive tract. However, be sure not to give your cat too much catnip to eat. Large amounts of catnip ingestion can have the reverse effect and lead to diarrhea or an upset stomach. 

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