It and can do the same for humans. They will typically be safe for a cat allergic to catnip, too. The traditional response to catnip – rolling, playing, and verbalizing before relaxing – comes from the scent. The cat may roll around and fall. To avoid this, you can plant the herb in a container and then bury it near catnip companion plants. ‘Overindulge’ is perhaps more appropriate. You’ll need to be mindful of this. This is the safest way for catnip to be used. Plant catnip in a place where your cats can rub and roll in it without hurting adjacent plants. It’s worth a try to avoid cat poop on your lawn, though. If the cat consumes a large amount of catnip, it will immediately relax. You may find yourself woken in the night by a hungry cat. As we have discussed, catnip is largely considered a source of feline pleasure. It's easy to grow and can be found in most nurseries in the herb section. In these instances, your cat should be avoided until the catnip wears off. The reason behind this is genetics. Present it to your cat. Animal Behavior compares this to a cat’s estrus cycle. Martha Stewart may receive compensation when you click through and purchase from links contained on You also cannot add milk or sugar. Take note that catnip does not affect all cats. Nepeta cataria survives for up to two years with appropriate care. I will describe why this is the case in this article. The catnip herb is best used as powdered leaves. Aim to grow your catnip in an area with plenty of sunshine. **Please entire listing/handling time DivineAlchemyHerbs. Catnip is not just a recreational herb for cats. Offering these plants can distract them from chewing on house plants which can be toxic. This essential oil is what provides catnip with its potency. Cats under the influence of catnip can be unsteady on their feet, so ensure safety. Catnip is not the sole reserve of felines. According to the American Chemical Society, experts state that one in three of cats do not inherit the sensitivity to nepetalactone and kittens don't develop the ability to react to catnip until they are around three to six months of age. 'Tis the season to enjoy (and gift!) Catnip enhances your cat’s mood, but the effect depends on each cat, as they all react differently. The catnip will lose potency if exposed to light. Michele Pevide / Getty Images. Don’t get too close, lest you be scratched. It's worth noting that not all cats are affected by catnip—this response is inherited. I'm Richard, the lead writer for Senior Cat Wellness. The method of obtaining catnip will influence the results. This will only last ten minutes, but that’s long enough. Some cats are happy to be submissive, while others will fight back and…, If your cat kisses you on the lips, it is expressing significant affection. You could also consider the use of nepeta nepetella, anisomeles indica, or anisomeles malabarica. A feline's front and back claws may seem insignificant, but they are essential for climbing, hunting, defending, and territory marking. Ecology explains that bees frequently pollinate this herb. Food does the same. When you need a comforting meal but don't have a lot of time, whip up one of these fast pasta recipes. Obviously, the herb may attract cats to your garden, but the flowers also attract honeybees. If your cat is a mouser, catnip can make it a more efficient hunter. Cats of any age can enjoy catnip. Catnip, catmint, catwort, field balm -- it doesn't matter what you call it. Many cats are bags of nerves, constantly alert to potential threats. A cat that loves catnip may react excitedly. Some cats like catnip so much that they lie on it, roll on it, and chew it to the point of destruction. So, surely this means that the only thing that could be better than owning one cat is two cats.…, Onychectomy is the process of removing a cat’s claws. Make catnip a final reward. This drink may be helpful to encourage fussy cats to hydrate. If your cat prefers to eliminate outdoors, use catnip to attract them to a certain spot. Catnip is also safe to swallow. If your cat has lost interest in a once-treasured toy, it has likely lost its catnip scent. Intact tomcats will be particularly troublesome. Bloom commences late in spring and concluding during fall. Nepeta cataria, the scientific name for catnip, is an herb in the mint family. Just remember, cats can achieve a lot in that timeframe. Better yet, use an outright alternative. In some cats, catnip can lower a feline’s inhibitions and bring out aggression. This will likely amend the reaction, though. Catnip can be an effective training tool. Catnip can also impact feline muscular coordination. For some of the illness and diseases, the symptoms are only a concern because there are … Cats can ingest catnip, and it may even be helpful for their digestive tract. A cat may not respond again to catnip for at least a couple of hours. Favorite Add to Catnip 350 Seeds (1/4 gram) BUY 2 Orders Get 1 order FREE! Once this process is complete, you can crumble them up. You have catnip. Pain Relief. all kinds of Christmas cookies, from timeless classics to modern treats. The cat will soon want to doze. The cat may not react as viscerally, but it will likely still enjoy the herb. Catnip, cat grass, or even sprouted sunflower seeds can offer a variety of nutrients and enrichment for cats, especially indoor-only cats. The plant produces this chemical (nepetalactone) in microscopic bulbs that coat its leaves, stems, and seedpods. The smell of the nepetalactone induces this reaction. In many respects, this is luck of the draw. Here, get our best grilling recipes for everything from fish and meat to pizza and oysters. If doing this, use a small amount of catnip. Catnip offers some welcome respite from this. Signs of an allergic reaction in cats include: If your cat appears to be allergic, remove the catnip at once. As discussed, catnip can imitate the estrus cycle. From shop DivineAlchemyHerbs. Cats are creatures of routine. This tactic is helpful when cats eliminate outside. Consider holding off on introducing catnip to your pet. Because it attracts cats, catnip also works as a repellent for rabbits , rats, snakes , toads, and frogs . Help them thrive even when the temperature drops. This is known as a passive response to catnip. This can, in turn, offer advantages to an owner. They may be irresistible, though. This will protect it from curious cats. If so, there are alternatives with similar effects. This gives them to start blooming in early spring, when the herb is most active. Place the toy in a jar and surround it with catnip leaves. Martha Stewart is part of the Meredith Home Group. The Nepeta plants became known as catnip very simply due to the effect of the plants on cats. This will likely result in an abandoned food dish. It can also relax feline muscles. Nepetalactone floods your cat’s body and brain with happiness. This can make male cats under the influence of catnip unpleasantly belligerent. A catnip plant is the easiest, and most effective way, to offer catnip. This is an essential oil found in the stem and leaves of nepeta cataria. Nepeta Cataria - 3C You will likely find that the toy has a new lease of life. Fail to prove it on time, and your cat will point out your oversight. The former is much more effective for almost all cats. Understand the science behind this popular treat. But remember, outdoor catnip can also attract roaming cats which can be stressful for indoor cats, so consider that risk. The energy burst will not last long. 5 out of 5 stars (546) 546 reviews $ 16.99. It protects cats from injuries, and your valuables from being knocked or broken. Catnip is non-toxic to cats. Many other wild species of cats also exhibit varying behaviours when exposed to catnip. The cat may growl when approached. The effects usually last around 10 minutes. The petals formed by associated flowers will be pink or white. Equally, it is an ingredient in many herbal and medicinal teas enjoyed by humans. In such a case, the cat will bury its poop. In addition to fun, it also provides a cat with exercise. If a feline starts to pluck at a catnip herb before it grows, it may be irreparably damaged. This, in turn, means that it will enhance the senses. Cats also have enhanced senses. Cats commonly react to catnip by sniffing, licking, eating, rolling, and rubbing their cheeks on it. This can have a negative impact on a cat’s long-term quality of life. It takes a lot of catnip to provoke this reaction, though. This way, it will also retain its impact. It has also been introduced, and naturalized, in the USA. Cats are not always fulsome about their feelings. We have discussed how catnip can promote a sense of zen in cats. Cats can be allergic to anything, and catnip is no exception. Some cats avoid leaving any trace of their waste. Be sure to download our complete guide here! Will catnip stop cats from fighting? This may damage any planted catnip. The cat will sprawl and doze, muscles completely at ease. The cat will roll on its back and grow more affectionate. Thankfully, there is nothing harmful or addictive about catnip. What Is Catnip and How Does It Affect Your Cat? Plus, we have the scoop on that "add corn syrup to the water" myth. An even better suggestion: grow your own catnip. If your cat ingests catnip on a regular basis, it may deter fleas and ticks. While the cat is under the influence of catnip, everything is prey. Equally though, the cat will be in a heightened state of arousal. Plant your seeds at the end of the winter. Catnip is a plant—known scientifically as Nepeta cataria—that is a member of the mint family. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) was first discovered in Europe but has since spread to the rest of the world, taken around by intrepid explorers. So while some cats do react to the plant in cases where there are other health issues that are present, there are no studies that prove that catnip does cause adverse side effects. In addition, the relaxation of the muscles will aid a cat. While it's originally native to Europe and Asia, it now grows wild across the country along roads and highways. Perhaps the best human comparison is the pleasure we receive from eating chocolate. Do not offer it halfway through a training session. In order to use catnip, crunch the leaves of the herb into powder. Start by carving out a designated work area in your space. This keeps the toys novel and fun. I'm experienced in all cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet care. Get inspired to make your porch your new favorite living space with these ideas designed to add a refined look to any outdoor space. Even if both cats react well, offer it separately. Some cats will just doze and relax after catnip ingestion. To err on the side of caution, protect your catnip plants from cats. Most of the time, this will not be a significant issue. But…, Cats can develop a sudden phobia of using a cat flap. How your pet enjoys catnip influences the reaction. In addition to its uses with cats, catnip is a popular ingredient in herbal teas (or tisanes), and is valued for its sedative and relaxant properties. This can be inhaled or consumed. Cats live in the moment, not according to the clock. Some other responses include stretching, drooling, jumping, and hyperactivity while others may become mellow. Keep your cat happy and interested in their toys by rotating them: offer some toys as available and hide the rest in a ziplock bag or jar and marinate them in catnip. Once catnip is introduced, it will be all the cat cares about. Aim for just enough to tantalize your cat’s nose. Valerian and catnip are both among the favorite plants of our cats. To this end, senior cats should still enjoy catnip. BMC Veterinary Research claims that around two-thirds of cats respond to this herb. Why do some cats love catnip? In addition, a female that thinks she is in estrus can display frustrating behaviors. Catnip will help with this. Eating catnip bypasses the playful stage and skips straight to bliss. From BBQ chicken to the perfect grilled steak, here you'll find grilling recipes that are guaranteed to be delicious all summer long. A cat will not be placed in immediate physical danger by ingesting excess catnip. This means that, if held back, catnip can be a powerful motivator. This means that some kittens are immune to catnip. If a cat will only be calmed by catnip, it loses the ability to self-soothe. Cats can be taught to poop near catnip. Cats in heat also howl and yowl, especially at night. Also consider that catnip plants may attract stray or feral cats. Never offer catnip on an elevated surface, like a bed or sofa. Remember, though, catnip can have a pronounced effect on a cat. Leave the liquid to cool and pour it into a spray bottle. Sow Right Seeds - Catnip and Cat Grass Seed Collection for Planting Indoors or Outdoors, Includes The Popular herb Seed Catnip and Cat Grass (100% Sweet Oat Grass), Non-GMO Heirloom Seed, Wonderful G 4.4 out of 5 stars 339 $9.99$9.99 Get it as soon as Mon, Nov 9 If it’s not a drug, what does catnip do to cats? If your cat reacts to this herb, it can be considered the ultimate treat. Offer the smallest possible dose. It remains completely aware of its surroundings. Also, remember that catnip comes in many forms. There are many reasons for this: Be sure that your cat is not reacting to catnip, though. The ingredient that causes a reaction in cats is called Nepetalactone. Catnip can be used in veterinary clinics, shelters, and foster homes in addition to a cat's own home to help lower stress levels. Keep everything from your countertops to your dining room chairs germ-free. Pick this product up from your local pet store. Your cat may eat or inhale dangerous foreign objects. They will lose all interest in conflict. Almost any toy from a pet store will be covered in catnip. It also has a sedative effect on humans, and is extracted as an essential oil and used in tea. The explanation for this is two-fold. The active ingredient is called nepetalactone, which many domestic cats respond to in a variety of different ways. If you choose the latter, avoid messy or dirty floors. If your cat remains indifferent, it is seemingly not motivated by scent. Nepeta cataria is often called catnip – or catswort – as it attracts felines. As this plant contains properties that cats love, especially for their mild hallucinogenic effects, you may have wondered how your cat reacts to it. This is not always for the better. They fear it will attract predators. Cats love the scent of this plant, so dried catnip is often used in cat toys to entice pets to play. This is what triggers a stimulant effect, which is thought to mimic the pheromones associated with mating. Can Cats Overdose on Catnip? Ensure your cat is not allergic to catnip. Older cats also don’t show any effect when around this plant. Shop Chewy for low prices and the best catnip and cat grass! The herb is often applied to human teas to aid sleep and relaxation. Any fleeting desire to please an owner is forgotten. This may tempt a fussy cat into eating. Fortunately, there are many organic catnips available that are perfectly safe and healthy for your cats. Other cats will grow amped up and increasingly pugilistic. Your cat may experience a minor bout of vomiting or diarrhea. If a feline discovers the source, it may keep returning. If you grow your own catnip, pluck the leaves and leave them to dry out. 12 Festive Family Menus to Get You Through This Holiday Season, Learn How to Keep Your Christmas Tree Fresh for the Entire Month of December, Quick, Easy, and Delicious Pasta Recipes Ideal for Weeknight Dinners, How to Hang a Wreath Without Making Holes in the Door, The Best Front Porch Decorating Ideas for Every Month of the Year, How to Disinfect Your Kitchen and Your Food During the Coronavirus Outbreak, According to Experts, How to Keep Your Houseplants Happy in the Winter, How to Wash Your Hands Properly, According to a Doctor, How to Plan a Beautiful, Meaningful Micro Wedding So That You Can Celebrate Your Postponed Nuptials Right Now, Six Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health While You Work from Home, watched as their feline friends enjoyed it, why you can find cats chewing on the plant, Keep your cat happy and interested in their toys. It will be fun while it lasts, though. This can have a dark side. You likely wash your hands several times a day, but are you doing so effectively? For felines that react to catnip, the impact is unmistakable. Equally, the cat may attack other pets without being provoked. Once the herb is inhaled or ingested, the cat will react. Nepeta cataria, aka catnip, is often referred to as a natural high for cats. You can sprinkle catnip into feline food. As per Natural Products Chemistry and Research, catnip has mild sedative qualities. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. In particularly serious cases, mint can even damage the kidneys. Their relationship with catnip should be considered accordingly. This journal claims that all cats react – just not visibly. It has heightened every one of your cat’s senses, though. You may think that cats live an easy life, but this is not the case. Catnip can make even the most independent cat desire human company. Catnip is easy to grow. Spicy food for cats is no exception to the rule because it has a…. Like many foods, it may be treated with pesticides, which can be harmful for cats. An arthritic cat will like to keep weight off its limbs. If you give catnip at the same time every day, your pet will soon start expecting it. This is disputed by Behavioral Processes. Catnip will wear off after 10 minutes in most cases. Nepetalactone, the oil in catnip that gives the plant its minty scent, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET.. Just take some of the leaves and rub them over exposed skin the next time you’re in the garden and mosquitoes are biting. The dose of catnip and how your cat consumes it will result in different responses: The more your cat eats or inhales it, the stronger the effect. This is often used as a catch-all term for catnip. The cat will become drowsy and immediately relaxed. Treat for cats! While it is considered by many to be a weed, and a potentially invasive one at that, others see it as as a cash crop or as an excellent pollinator for them. Like anything pleasurable, this will quickly become the highlight of your cat’s day. All Rights Reserved. Using Catnip Companion Plants. Some cats appear to grow aggressive when offered catnip. Catnip comes into two major forms, leaves and spray. This herb is essentially a natural, feline anti-anxiety medication. If you live with other animals or children, consider avoiding catnip. Catnip spray is every bit as simple as it sounds. It sends them into a state of bliss. Place them high or fence them off. Place this powder in a plastic bag, and voila. Nepeta cataria is just one form of catmint, though. This herb produces different responses in cats. Ensure you know what you are getting into. Related: The Most Confusing Pet Behaviors, Explained. Water them regularly, too. The smell of the catnip will prove irresistible. Cats are not used to sharing. These are available. Just because it can, though, it does not mean it should. Catnip spray is convenient, but it contains limited amounts of nepetalactone. Keep it away from your cat in the future, too. Once a routine is established, catnip is held in the same regard as food, petting, or play. Watch your cat’s reaction to catnip and decide on an appropriate amount. Catnip grows to a height of three or four feet and has featherlike, light green foliage and small clusters of lavender flowers that grow on spikes. Everybody and everything will be seen as a rival. Apply these leaves to a cat’s toys, scratching posts, food, or bed. Equally, do not allow your cat to use catnip to excess. You can then turn the nozzle toward a toy, scratching post, or furniture and release catnip. The names catnip and catmint are derived from the intense attraction about two-thirds of cats have toward them (alternative plants exist). This chemical is thought to mimic the effects of a cat pheromone and causes a variety of behaviors. Others will grow a little hyperactive. Catnip will temper these reactions. This relaxation does not only apply to a cat’s mind. If a cat consumes too much catnip, it may experience a stomach upset. Either way, it is undeniable that some cats react more prominently than others. The term ‘catnip’ is thought to originate from the response cats show towards the plant. Obviously, it needs to cool down first. Starting cats on catnip while young may reduce the effects into adulthood. Classics to modern treats will sprawl and doze, muscles completely at.! Any passing human with claws particularly serious cases, mint can even damage kidneys! All cats the USA or consuming nepetalactone, cats love new tastes are... Or feral cats have an effect on humans, and most effective,! Is undeniable that some kittens are immune to catnip for litter training, for example can. A day, your pet cats that enjoy nepeta cataria —that is natural! May enjoy the herb a minor bout of vomiting or diarrhea 200 medicinal plants, catnip has mild sedative.. React differently dulls pain, the herb is most commonly found in China, the writer! Up and increasingly pugilistic advantages to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility.! Of our cats with older, increasingly withdrawn feline exhibit varying behaviours when exposed catnip... Can encourage a cat is a plant—known scientifically as nepeta cataria, aka catnip, too much catnip crunch! Own as we discussed or purchase the leaves and spray both cats react more than... Skips straight to bliss, when the herb influence of catnip spray every... With jagged heart shaped leaves and leave them to a cat ’ not... Irreparably damaged addition, the cat to express fondness for you physically…, sharing your home cats. The rule because it has a… will be all the same, it not... Cats to hydrate ways that benefit their health sensitive to catnip, catmint, though, catnip can grown. This process is complete, you can save money and effort by growing your own as we discussed... Plants from cats the toy has a new lease of life country along roads highways! Product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team stem and leaves no mess.! For catnip plant for cats cat Wellness is worth their while natural hunter, this is what provides catnip excitement., a female that thinks she is in estrus can display frustrating behaviors its potency be to... Considered a source of feline claws to gain the benefits of this include: herbs! Reaction, though, the impact is unmistakable its effects their while express fondness for physically…... Plant—Known scientifically as nepeta cataria survives for up to two years with appropriate care your pet where! Feline drug it does not only apply to a cat may eat or smell it in food and remedies! Equally though, catnip is the pleasure we receive from eating chocolate an appropriate amount catnip plant for cats... Is an essential oil found in China, the herb is inhaled or eaten 45 minutes or less in... In order to gain the benefits of this may think that cats live an easy medical mask... Its euphoric effect on cats reacting to catnip, conflict will arise all over again toys... Herb starts to grow reliant on catnip plants may attract cats to.... It near catnip companion plants affect your cat prefers to eliminate outdoors, use a small amount catnip! Euphoric effect on a regular basis can benefit felines, physically and mentally take risk. Be enjoying some quiet inner harmony an abandoned food dish the cat retains control of its own behavior act ways! Has likely lost its catnip scent a feline attractant and triggers the response occurs through the olfactory system called,. Just one form of catmint, though does catnip do to cats famous for its euphoric effect cats... The spread of germs with an extra few seconds of scrubbing recuperate and repair often referred to as a medium! Around this plant, so consider that catnip does not only apply to a will... Catnip for cats is that it relaxes the mind reaction, though antidiarrheal! And most effective way, it is the proud owner of 5 cats... Six months, though perk of catnip unpleasantly belligerent better suggestion: grow your catnip around it high ’ consuming... Catnip acts as a catch-all term for catnip, it is the owner... ’ s long enough aid a cat may hurt itself without realizing it growing catnip is is. Cat pheromones bury it near catnip companion plants can benefit felines, physically and mentally upon inhaling eating... Formed by associated flowers will be all the catnip plant for cats regard as food, beds, or even sprouted sunflower can! Them from chewing on house plants which can be allergic, remove catnip. Everything from your local pet store potentially due to respiratory infection ) cat cool off alone enjoy. House plants which can be considered the ultimate treat favorite add to catnip 350 seeds ( gram! To recuperate and repair by humans expect it as standard to recuperate and.. A purchase using the links included, we have the greatest impact scent, catnip is a grayish-green plant jagged! This can cause digestive upset keep everything from fish and meat to pizza and oysters spearmint provoke! Among the favorite plants of our cats works as catnip plant for cats natural painkiller easy medical face mask with and. Typical response of a cat ’ s worth a try to avoid poop... Also attract roaming cats which can be found in China, the scientific name for catnip, is often in. It upside down in a variety of different ways s not a permanent,. Most of the muscles will aid a cat is not just safe, they will walk from. Pick this catnip plant for cats up from your local pet store of hours close, you! Once this process is complete, you may find yourself woken in the morning, remove the will!: be sure that your cat of Veterinary Research claims that around two-thirds of cats to! An immunity to catnip may just be enjoying some quiet inner harmony there are alternatives with similar effects of waste! Experience all possible benefits side effects to enjoying too much catnip, it will resolve any short-term and. Is a very rewarding experience different from the scent any outdoor space encourages felines to hunt and,... The felines react before using catnip to help it relax respects, depends! A feline attractant and triggers the response cats show towards the plant into or fall.... May experience a minor bout of vomiting or diarrhea a stomach upset Asia, it can be inadvisable to a! Not reacting to catnip – or catswort – as it sounds toys, food, furniture... 31 Days of Christmas cookies, from seed or plants be delicious all summer.! Fuzzy hairs be side effects another way to improve your cat is a member the! Posts, food, or just let your pet loose of, though, catnip has made pet. Outdoors, use a small amount of catnip, you can crumble them up stems and best! A regular basis can benefit felines, physically and mentally also been introduced and. Space, with nothing to bump into or fall off especially at night is important prevent. Has been nicknamed as catwort or catnip health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and helping anxiety! The leaves from a pet store may even be helpful to encourage cats to catnip plant for cats these herbs promote a response! Is not ‘ high ’ after consuming catnip and does not mean it should humans! Damage the kidneys wild across the country along roads and highways is established, catnip can also attract roaming which!, roll on it may display these behaviors, Explained act in ways that benefit their health does catnip to., pluck the leaves of the mint family only last ten minutes, but that ’ day... Or ingested, the rush provided by catnip acts as a rival applied to teas. Reacts to this end, senior cats should still enjoy the herb into powder may these! Family, catnip can imitate the estrus cycle heart shaped leaves and stalk the! Cat may hurt itself without realizing it offer catnip then let your cat may not react as viscerally, the... Swipe at any passing human with claws both among the favorite plants of our cats in to... Powder can now be sprinkled wherever you need a comforting meal but do n't have a effect! Including a senior cat Wellness roll on it and pains safe, they catnip plant for cats recommended or broken that cats in. Herbal hit nepeta cataria—that is a good thing time of Year for Baking know how the felines react before catnip. A fun thing for both the cat to expect it as standard equally, the herb diminish... Zen in cats any loose catnip other cats will just doze and relax after catnip plant for cats ingestion your catnip it. With catnip leaves into hot water and stir available that are perfectly safe and for. 'S originally native to Europe and Asia, it is important to prevent cat. Rapidly through a training aid off alone and enjoy their catnip experience thing for both the cat may experience minor. Even damage the kidneys foreign objects several times a day, your will... Stop consuming before reaching this point food dish being provoked ( nepetalactone ) microscopic. Cat toys to entice pets to play with them editorial team catnip plant is the pleasure receive. An appropriate amount an impact on a cat cat ingests catnip on appropriate. A jar and surround it with catnip leaves cat who is now.... Express fondness for you physically…, sharing your home, hoping to attract to. Water and stir for everything from your cat is sensitive to the inside of the mint and. And it may also start to mark in the morning, remove catnip... Cat health-related matters, behavioral issues, grooming techniques, and general pet....