What is Catnip and How Does it Affect Cats?
Catnip (scientific name Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herbaceous plant from the mint family Lamiaceae that produces fragrant flowers and aromatic foliage. It contains the chemical compound nepetalactone, which is stored in the leaves and stems of the plant. When cats smell or ingest catnip, the nepetalactone stimulates receptors in their nose and mouth, triggering a temporary euphoric state that may last 5-15 minutes (1).
The response to catnip is harmless and completely benign. Most cats show a playful, excitable reaction after exposure to catnip, rolling around, rubbing themselves on it, and leaping about in a frenzied manner. They may meow, growl or make other vocalizations. Some cats may become more relaxed, calm and docile. The euphoric effect of catnip is similar to the effects of recreational drugs on humans. However, it is not addictive and there are no lasting harmful effects (2).
(1) https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/crazy-catnip
(2) https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/what-is-catnip
How Catnip is Processed by a Cat’s Body
When a cat smells catnip, the scent moves through the nostrils to the olfactory nerves located inside the nasal cavity. The chemical compounds in catnip bind to specialized olfactory receptors in these nerves, which triggers a neurological response in the brain.
This neurological stimulation is what causes the euphoric effects and crazy behaviors often seen when cats are exposed to catnip. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but research suggests catnip mimics feline pheromones and stimulates areas of the brain involved in pleasure and reward [1].
While not all cats respond to catnip, those that do tend to exhibit behaviors like rolling around, flipping over, rubbing against objects, hyper activity, vocalizing, and playfulness. The neurological stimulation produces a temporary sense of euphoria and disorientation in affected cats.
Duration of Catnip’s Effects
The effects of catnip are relatively short-lived in most cats, with the response typically lasting between 5 to 15 minutes before fading (1). However, there can be substantial variability between individual cats in the duration and intensity of the catnip response.
Some cats may exhibit behavioral changes for 30 minutes or more after exposure to catnip. The specific compounds in catnip responsible for the behaviors are quickly metabolized, which leads to the short duration (2).
Additionally, repeated exposures to catnip tends to produce diminishing responses in cats. The receptors in the cat’s brain become desensitized after an initial catnip exposure, meaning effects are reduced with subsequent exposures shortly afterwards (3). Cats need at least a 1-2 hour break before catnip will induce a strong response again.
So while catnip effects are relatively short in duration, the exact time frame can vary based on the individual cat, dosage/exposure amount, and frequency of exposure.
(1) https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/what-is-catnip
(2) https://www.smalldoorvet.com/learning-center/medical/catnip/
(3) https://www.beverlyhillsvets.com/blog/effects-of-catnip/
Factors Influencing Catnip Response
A cat’s response to catnip can vary greatly depending on several key factors:
Genetics play a major role. Research has identified that the ‘catnip response’ gene is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. This means some cats lack the gene and will not exhibit the catnip reaction no matter how much they are exposed to it.[1]
The method of exposure also influences the response. Most cats respond more strongly to smelling catnip than eating it, since the volatile oils that trigger the reaction are more concentrated when inhaled. Catnip-filled toys are typically more stimulating than treats for this reason.[2]
A cat’s age and sex can also impact their sensitivity. Kittens younger than 3-6 months generally do not respond. Adolescent and adult cats are the most reactive, with males typically displaying more intense responses than females on average.[3]
In summary, genetics, delivery method, age, and sex all contribute to how strongly – if at all – a cat will react to catnip.
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36008824/
[2] https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/behaviour/understanding-cats/cats-and-catnip
[3] https://bmcbiol.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12915-022-01369-1
Can Cats Become Addicted to Catnip?
There is no scientific evidence that catnip is addictive for cats. The euphoric response cats experience when exposed to catnip is temporary and does not indicate addiction. Catnip contains nepetalactone, which binds to olfactory receptors in a cat’s nose and triggers a neurological response that can cause excitement, rolling around, and other “high” behaviors. However, this effect wears off within 5-15 minutes as the chemical is processed.
Cats cannot become dependent on catnip or experience withdrawal symptoms, even with repeated exposure. While a tolerance can build up from frequent catnip use, meaning decreased responses over time, this is not the same as addiction or dependence. The catnip reaction is physiologically and biologically different than addictive substances like opioids or nicotine. Overall, catnip is considered amusing and harmless for most cats.
Some sources: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2022/07/05/what-does-catnip-do-cats/7790124001/, https://pethelpful.com/cats/Is-Catnip-Addictive-Why-Some-Cats-Cant-Get-Enough
When Should Catnip Be Introduced?
Catnip is typically introduced after a kitten has been weaned, usually around 12 weeks old. This allows kittens to outgrow their chewing stage first before being exposed to catnip toys and treats, preventing them from ingesting catnip which can cause an upset stomach.
Most veterinarians recommend waiting until a kitten is at least 3-6 months old before introducing catnip. According to Catster, kittens generally don’t respond to catnip until they are at least 6-9 months old, as their reaction depends on developmental stages.
Exposing kittens to catnip too early when they are still teething can also create a bad habit of chewing and ingesting catnip toys. It’s best to allow them to outgrow this oral fixation first. Once a kitten is around 6 months old, they are better able to enjoy catnip toys and treats safely.
Catnip Safety and Side Effects
Overall, catnip is considered very safe for cats when used appropriately. There are no known serious side effects of catnip for most cats.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Cats with kidney disease or urinary tract issues should avoid catnip, as it may exacerbate those conditions (https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/what-does-catnip-do-to-cats/).
- Pregnant or nursing cats are often advised to avoid catnip, since the effects are not well studied (https://theconversation.com/what-actually-is-catnip-and-is-it-safe-for-my-cat-160961).
- Cats should only be given dried or fresh catnip leaves, not essential oils like catnip oil, which can cause adverse reactions (https://www.petcarerx.com/article/is-catnip-safe-5-things-you-should-know/81).
As with anything, moderation is key. Catnip should be given occasionally as a special treat. Consuming large amounts may cause an upset stomach or diarrhea, especially in kittens.
Natural Catnip Toys and Treats
There are many safe, natural catnip toys and treats available for cats that enjoy the effects of catnip. Some popular options include:
Stuffed catnip toys like mice, balls, snakes, and fish provide hours of batting, chewing, and pouncing fun. Refillable stuffed toys allow you to restock the catnip when it loses its potency. Popular natural catnip stuffed brands include Yeowww! and SmartyKat at Chewy.
Catnip-filled wands and teasers are an interactive way to play with your cat and stimulate their prey drive. KONG and Meowijuana make popular catnip wand toys.
Catnip sprays and oils can be applied to non-catnip toys to make them attractive to cats. Use catnip oils sparingly and avoid contact with the cat’s nose and eyes. OurPetsCosmic Catnip Spray is a safe, mild catnip spray.
For a DIY approach, fill clean socks or paper bags with premium organic catnip. You can also rub dried catnip directly onto cardboard scratchers and tunnels.
When the catnip potency fades, dispose of the toys to avoid cat frustration or simply refill with fresh organic catnip.
Signs of a Catnip ‘High’
When a cat gets a whiff of catnip, it often exhibits behavior associated with a “high.” This is because catnip contains the chemical compound nepetalactone, which binds to receptors in a cat’s nose and stimulates a response in the brain that affects the cat’s behavior.
Some common signs that a cat is experiencing a catnip high include:
- Rolling, flipping, jumping, racing around (https://www.petmd.com/cat/general-health/does-catnip-make-cats-high)
- Licking, chewing, head-shaking (https://www.catster.com/guides/why-does-catnip-make-cats-go-crazy/)
- Aggressive play or nipping
- Unusually loving behavior
The stimulating and erratic behavior exhibited when cats get high on catnip is a result of the nepetalactone binding to the olfactory receptors. This triggers the typical crazy catnip response, though the specific behaviors can vary from cat to cat.
When the ‘High’ Wears Off
The effects of catnip do not last very long in most cats. After getting an initial “high” from catnip, most cats will gradually calm down over the course of 5-15 minutes as the nepetalactone is metabolized and excreted from their system. PetMD notes that the hyperactive behavior associated with catnip exposure usually dissipates within 10 minutes.
As the catnip wears off, most cats will start to appear sleepy, disinterested, and mellow. The excitation they experienced gives way to a period of calm relaxation. According to the Humane Society, the effects of catnip completely dissipate within 1-2 hours after exposure. After this period, the cat regains full sensitivity to catnip and can experience another “high” from being re-exposed.
In summary, while catnip provides a temporary high, its effects are relatively short in duration. After 5-15 minutes of frenzied activity, that energy burns off, leaving the cat subdued and ready for a nap. Within at most a couple hours, it’s as if they never had any catnip at all.