All cat owners have heard about catnip before. Maybe you’ve been curious for a while and would like to get some for your cats, or have already given them a whiff or taste of catnip just to see how it makes them feel. Whether they were eating it, smelling it, rolling around in it, or just relaxing next to it, catnip is known to put cats in a nice, happy mood. This aromatic herb is so powerful that even big cats like lions, tigers, and panthers have the same reaction to it as your typical domestic tabby does. They all seem to be addicted to it, so what exactly is catnip? Why do cats, big and small, enjoy catnip so much? Keep reading if you want to know the answers!
What is catnip?
“Nepeta cataria'', the scientific name for catnip, is a plant in the mint family. It spreads like a weed all over the world and has its origins in Asia, Africa, and Europe. Due to its drought tolerance, deer resistance, and insect repellent properties, catnip is also grown as a decorative plant in many gardens all over the world. We can imagine all of those gardens will have a few recurring visitors. Another surprising fact about catnip is that nepetalactone, the chemical compound produced by catnip, can also be made into an essential oil to lure butterflies. I bet you wouldn't have guessed that!
How does catnip work?
As we mentioned before, catnip leaves and stems contain nepetalactone. This compound attaches to the receptors lining the nasal cavity as it enters a cat's nose. This process provides a signal to your cat’s neurons in the olfactory bulb, which activates different parts of the brain that regulate emotion and behavior. This can cause them to feel happy, relaxed, and euphoric. And they only need to give it a tiny sniff!
How will my cat respond to catnip?
Cats can have a few different reactions to catnip. Some want to roll around in it, lick it, or even eat it. If you have a bitey cat, you know they will immediately try to get it in their mouth. Others slobber or become placid and docile, while some meow and run around frantically. The precise response is determined by the cat and the dose ingested or inhaled. Like many other things, the effect gets stronger the more your cat eats or inhales it, so make sure you’re keeping an eye on them.
If you got some catnip for your cat before and they weren’t loving it, don't panic! There’s nothing wrong with your cat, in fact, one-third of all cats aren't as likely to be impacted by catnip. There is a perfectly acceptable explanation for this. Scientists believe that a cat's reaction to catnip is inherited and that it only affects sexually mature cats older than six months, so age and genes matter.
Getting started with catnip treats.
Catnip is a tasty and healthy treat for your kitty companions. Cats might not get sick of eating the same food every day as we humans do, and they’re pretty much okay with routines, but it’s always nice to add a little spice to your feline friend’s day once in a while. Catnip can help some difficult or stressed cats to become more loving or calm, and older cats can even experience a burst of energy and playfulness they haven't felt since they were kittens. So, if you’re looking to give your cat something special and want a safe and simple way for your cat to enjoy catnip, catnip treats are the perfect option. And you can find them locally at Onalaska Animal Hospital and Meringue Bakery.
We hope this answered all of your questions about catnip. Now go ahead and get your cat a little treat, they deserve it.
