Introduction
Catnip is a plant in the mint family that contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone. This compound binds to receptors in a cat’s nose that can produce a variety of euphoric effects in some cats, including rolling around, flipping, rubbing, and hyperactivity. Some cats can have an adverse reaction to catnip resulting in anxiety or aggression.
A seizure is defined as sudden, uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain that causes changes in behavior or movement, often including muscle stiffening, jerking, and loss of consciousness. Seizures are typically brief but can cause the animal distress.
The question this article will explore is whether the chemical compound nepetalactone in catnip can potentially cause seizures in cats. We will examine catnip’s effects, what constitutes a seizure in cats, and the available research on any connection between the two.
What is Catnip?
Catnip, also known as catmint, is a plant from the mint family with the botanical name Nepeta cataria. It contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone that has a unique effect on cats.
When cats smell or ingest catnip, the nepetalactone binds to receptors in their brain and triggers a response that can include sniffing, chewing, head shaking, chin and cheek rubbing, head over rolling, and licking. Essentially, catnip causes a temporary euphoric state in cats.
Catnip is different from other plants in that it elicits this eccentric response in cats. Not all cats are affected by catnip though – about 50-70% of cats will respond to it.
Catnip can be given to cats in several forms like as a dried leaf, a powder added to toys, or as an essential oil. Cat owners often use catnip-filled toys to stimulate their cats’ playful, wild side.
Catnip’s Effects on Cats
Catnip contains an essential oil called nepetalactone that can have stimulating, excitatory effects on cats when inhaled or ingested (https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/what-is-catnip). Approximately two-thirds to three-quarters of cats are affected by catnip (https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/crazy-catnip). The most common response to catnip is increased activity – the cat may start rolling around, rubbing its head and body, become very playful or hyperactive, vocalize more, or display a flehmen response with an open mouth (https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/what-is-catnip).
The effects of catnip peak around 5-15 minutes after exposure and then start wearing off. Not all cats respond to catnip – genetics determine whether the cat will react or not. Catnip’s stimulating effects on cats are temporary and harmless in moderation (https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/crazy-catnip).
What is a Seizure?
A seizure is characterized by sudden abnormal electrical activity in the brain resulting in uncontrolled muscle movements. Seizures are also known as convulsions, fits, or epileptic attacks (VCA Hospitals, n.d.).
During a seizure, the electrical disturbance causes the cat to experience uncontrollable twitching, tremors, staring spells, collapse, and loss of consciousness. The seizure usually lasts from 30 seconds to 2 minutes (Frontier Vet Urgent Care, 2021).
There are many potential causes of seizures in cats including epilepsy, fever, low blood sugar, liver disease, electrolyte abnormalities, head trauma, poisonings, and brain tumors (Small Door Veterinary, 2022). Epilepsy, which is recurrent seizures with no identifiable cause, is one of the most common reasons for seizures in cats.
Can Catnip Cause Seizures?
There is no definitive evidence that catnip causes seizures in cats, even when ingested in large quantities, according to https://www.catster.com/guides/can-catnip-cause-seizures-in-cats/. Catnip is generally considered very safe for cats.
However, some sources note catnip may increase susceptibility to seizure-like activity in cats already prone to seizures. This is likely due to the stimulating effects of catnip rather than a direct causative effect. Excessive catnip use should be monitored in cats with a history of seizures.
The seizure-like behavior sometimes seen after catnip use is more accurately described as periods of hyperactivity or erratic movement, rather than actual seizures. There is a lack of clinical evidence showing catnip triggers epileptic seizures in cats.
Overall, while further research is needed, there are currently no confirmed cases of catnip directly inducing seizures in healthy cats when used appropriately. Cat owners should exercise caution with catnip use in cats prone to seizures or other medical conditions that involve overstimulation.
Catnip Safety
Catnip is generally considered safe for cats when used responsibly. The active chemical in catnip, called nepetalactone, is non-toxic and does not cause long-term side effects.1 However, catnip should not be given to kittens under 6 months old, as their brains are still developing and they do not react to catnip until reaching 6-12 months of age.2
When giving catnip to your cat, it’s important to monitor their usage and use catnip responsibly. Offering catnip toys or treats in moderation is generally safe. However, you’ll want to limit access if your cat shows signs of excessive hyperactivity or aggression after being exposed to catnip. Never force your cat to ingest catnip if they show no interest.3
While catnip is not addictive and does not cause dependence, some cats can become overly excited by its effects. Responsible cat owners should use catnip as an occasional treat in moderation, not as a daily routine.
Signs of a Seizure
Cats experiencing seizures often exhibit concerning symptoms like loss of consciousness, collapsing, jerking, twitching and convulsing. According to GoodRx, a common sign of a seizure in cats is a loss of consciousness, where the cat’s body suddenly becomes limp and they collapse on their side. Cats may also experience uncontrolled jerking or twitching movements of their face, limbs or body during a seizure, accompanied by convulsions.
Excessive drooling is another telltale indicator of a seizure, as reported by Frontier Vet Urgent Care. A cat having a seizure may not be able to swallow properly and saliva can pool in their mouth. You may also notice your cat seems temporarily blind during a seizure, unable to see or recognize you.
Seizure First Aid
If your cat experiences a seizure, it is important to provide proper first aid to protect them from injury and track important information to share with your veterinarian.
To provide seizure first aid:
- Protect your cat from injury. Gently move them away from stairs, furniture, or other objects they could hit or fall on during the seizure.
- Do not try to restrain or restrict your cat’s movement during the seizure. This can cause injury to you or your cat.
- Note the time the seizure starts and ends, and track any symptoms you observe such as drooling, loss of bladder control, or chomping.
- Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible after the seizure ends. If it is after hours, take your cat to the emergency vet. Bring the details you recorded about the seizure for the vet.
Providing proper first aid during a seizure can help protect your cat from harm until you can get them veterinary attention. Tracking details about the seizure will help the vet determine appropriate treatment and monitoring.
Seizure Causes and Treatment
The most common cause of seizures in cats where no underlying cause is found is idiopathic epilepsy, according to VCA Animal Hospitals. This means the epilepsy has no identifiable cause and is likely genetic in these cats.
Other causes of seizures in cats can include:
- Liver disease
- Brain tumors
- Exposure to toxins
If the underlying cause of a cat’s seizures cannot be treated, medications can be used to help reduce the frequency and severity of seizures, according to Small Door Veterinary. Common anticonvulsant medications prescribed include phenobarbital, potassium bromide, levetiracetam, and zonisamide. Finding the right medication or combination of medications requires trial and error and close monitoring by a veterinarian.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while catnip can cause odd behavior in cats, there is no evidence that catnip alone directly causes seizures. Catnip is generally safe for cats to enjoy, but it’s a good idea to monitor your cat’s use of catnip and watch for any concerning signs like tremors, twitching, loss of balance, or other unusual behavior. If you notice these signs, discontinue catnip use and see your veterinarian. Seizures have many possible causes, like epilepsy, fever, poisoning, electrolyte imbalances, and more. Only a vet can diagnose the underlying cause and recommend treatment options like medications, dietary changes, or supplements. Though alarming to witness, most seizures are short-lived events and pass on their own. Stay calm, keep your cat safe, and consult your vet. While catnip may rev up your kitty, rest assured it does not appear to trigger hazardous seizures in cats.