As a cat owner, if you’re looking for a good laugh, just give your cat some catnip. While some cats turn into sweet puddles of mush, others become hyperactive and turn into aggressive little fur-balls of terror. From domesticated indoor cats to big cats of the wild, felines tend to go a little cuckoo over this leafy herb. So just what is it about Catnip that drives cats so crazy, and does Catnip get your little one high?
What Is Catnip?
Catnip is a leafy green herb from the same family as mint. Its leaves, stems, and seeds contain an oil that secretes a chemical called nepetalactone which acts as a pheromone to cats. For many, but not all, its smell is irresistible.
Coming in Contact with Catnip
With even a tiny whiff of Catnip, most cats become triggered. You will begin to see off behavior such as twitching, drooling, and a whole lot of rolling around on the ground pawing toys. These effects usually last anywhere from five to fifteen minutes, when cats seem to recover their senses and develop a catnip immunity that lasts about an hour.
Does Catnip Get My Cat “High”?
Simply put, yes. Although Catnip for humans acts as a sedative, it can cause mild visual and auditory hallucinations so that it may do the same in cats. More commonly, though, it acts as a stimulus in cats causing active, attentive, or playful behavior.
Is There Such Thing as “Too Much Catnip?
It is not recommended to give catnip to pregnant cats or cats who experience seizures. Aside from that, catnip is relatively harmless to your cat. However, for catnip to be dangerous for your cat, they need to ingest a significant amount. Gastrointestinal issues, like vomiting or diarrhea, are the most common symptoms. These symptoms typically subside on their own as the plant metabolizes, but in severe cases, they can cause neurological symptoms. In this case, provide supportive care until your cat is on the mend.
How Often Can I Give My Cat Catnip?
There is no real consensus on how frequently to give catnip to a Catnip is recommended to let your cat enjoy this treat about 1-3 times a week. Although, using catnip more regularly may cause the cat to become desensitized to it.
My Cat Doesn’t Like Catnip
Don’t be alarmed if your cat doesn’t like catnip, only around 70 percent of cats respond to catnip. Another factor could be age. Kittens don’t tend to react to catnip until they are about six months old.
What’s the Best Way to Give My Cat Catnip
Just like with any herb, fresh is best. Catnip is easy to grow but invasive, so you might consider growing it in a pot or a planter with other cat favorites such as wheatgrass. Dried catnip is also highly effective, though the essential oils tend to lose their power over time. Sprays tend not to contain enough nepetalactone to get your kitty going.
