What is Catnip?
Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb in the mint family Lamiaceae. It is also known as catmint and catswort. The botanical name Nepeta cataria comes from the Latin word “nepeta” referring to the Italian city Nepete where catnip grew prolifically.
The chemical compound nepetalactone is what causes the hallucinogenic effects in cats when they inhale or eat catnip. Nepetalactone binds to receptors in a cat’s nose and mimics feline pheromones. This induces a sense of euphoria and stimulation in cats. The effects of catnip last about 10-15 minutes before wearing off.
Catnip contains volatile oils including citral, nepetalactone, geraniol, thymol, citronellol and eugenol. When cats smell or eat the catnip plant, the nepetalactone acts as a sedative, induces states of euphoria, and triggers sensory overload in cats.[1]
Why Do Cats Like Catnip?
Cats love catnip because it contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone that triggers a euphoric reaction when inhaled or consumed (https://www.purina.ca/articles/cat/behaviour/why-do-cats-love-catnip). Nepetalactone binds to olfactory receptors in a cat’s nose and mimics feline pheromones, inducing a happy, relaxed state (https://www.science.org/content/article/why-cats-are-crazy-catnip). This produces effects in cats such as rolling, flipping, rubbing, and occasionally aggressive play. The reaction to catnip is mediated by genetics, with an estimated 50-70% of cats exhibiting a sensitivity to nepetalactone.
While the “high” produced by catnip only lasts about 10-15 minutes, most cats will return to the catnip for another reaction after a short break. Cats may continue reacting to catnip multiple times before becoming exhausted. However, they must replenish the catnip’s aromatic oils before the euphoric reaction can be triggered again, usually taking at least an hour. Overall, catnip provides a positive experience for most cats and is not harmful when used appropriately.
Is Catnip Addictive for Cats?
There is no scientific evidence that catnip is addictive for cats. The reaction cats have to catnip is temporary and wears off within 10-15 minutes, after which the cat loses interest. According to PetMD, “Cats cannot become addicted to catnip. They also cannot experience opioid withdrawals from repeated exposure no matter how much they are exposed to.”
While the reaction to catnip may seem intense, it is very different from addictive drugs like opioids that act on the brain’s reward system. As USA Today explains, “The chemicals in catnip primarily interact with the odor receptors in a cat’s nose and have no known addictive properties in the brain.”
So while cats may love and eagerly respond to catnip, they do not demonstrate addictive behaviors. The euphoric reaction wears off quickly and does not intensify with repeated exposure. Giving catnip before bed is unlikely to make a cat dependent or addicted (Source 1, Source 2).
When Can Kittens Have Catnip?
Most experts recommend waiting until a kitten is around 6 months old before introducing catnip. Kittens under 3 months old do not react to catnip at all due to developmental factors.
According to PetMD, kittens lack a fully developed olfactory system until around 6 months of age to perceive the nepetalactone in catnip. Their brain development also has not reached the point where they can experience the euphoric effects of catnip.
While catnip is not harmful to kittens, introducing it too young provides no benefits. It’s best to wait until the kitten’s senses have matured enough to properly react to and enjoy the catnip.
Some key safety considerations for kittens and catnip:
- Do not give a kitten catnip until at least 6 months old
- Purchase high-quality catnip from a reputable source
- Avoid catnip with additives or flavors
- Introduce catnip gradually and watch for any adverse reactions
Following these guidelines will allow kittens to safely enjoy catnip as they reach the appropriate age.
Benefits of Catnip for Cats
Catnip contains a chemical called nepetalactone that produces a response when smelled or ingested by cats (MyPetNaturally). Catnip provides several benefits for cats:
Relaxation and Stress Relief
When ingested, catnip acts as a sedative that can reduce anxiety, stress and depression in cats. The relaxing effect helps high-strung cats especially. Catnip can also reduce stomach pain and vomiting in some cats. The soothing nature of catnip makes it a good option for nervous cats or cats in stressful situations (SFHerb).
Environmental Enrichment
Catnip provides mental stimulation and enrichment for house cats. The intense reaction cats have to catnip satisfies their natural urge to hunt and play. Catnip toys and treats make great additions to indoor environments to keep cats physically and mentally engaged.
Promotes Play and Activity
The energizing effect cats experience while smelling catnip can also provide a health benefit by getting more exercise. Promoting play with catnip toys encourages cats to be more physically active. The playful interaction with catnip satisfies a cat’s innate need to stalk, pounce and chase.
Potential Side Effects of Catnip
While catnip is generally safe for cats, some potential side effects can occur. The main risks stem from overstimulation or excitability. Catnip can make some cats very energetic and playful. They may jump, run, flip, and roll around excessively after exposure to catnip. This overstimulation can potentially lead to incidents or injuries in some cases.
Catnip can also elicit an aggressive reaction in some cats. The reasons for this are not fully understood, but catnip may overstimulate certain cats and cause them to become more aggressive or territorial. Growling, attacking toys, randomly attacking, and overall aggressive behavior are possible side effects.
If a cat eats catnip rather than just smelling it, vomiting or diarrhea are possible side effects. Catnip is meant to be smelled and consumed in moderation. Eating too much can upset a cat’s gastrointestinal system and lead to these issues. For this reason, cat owners should monitor their cat closely if giving them catnip to play with.
Overall, side effects from catnip are usually minor and temporary. However, owners should supervise their cat closely after exposure to catnip to watch for overstimulation, aggression, or gastrointestinal issues. Only providing a small amount at a time and removing access once the cat loses interest can help minimize the risks.
Should You Give Catnip Before Bed?
Whether or not to give a cat catnip before bedtime requires some careful consideration of the pros and cons.
On the pro side, catnip can have a calming, sedative effect on cats that may make them sleepy and relaxed at bedtime. According to Pet Life, catnip contains nepetalactone which can cause “moderate drowsiness and help your cat relax and sleep” (source). The sedative properties of catnip may promote better sleep in some cats.
However, catnip does not have the same effect on all cats. While some become drowsy, others can become hyper and energetic after exposure to catnip. According to Pretty Litter, overusing catnip can also make cats become desensitized to its effects (source).
Giving catnip too close to bedtime can potentially disrupt a cat’s sleep cycle if they become overstimulated. It’s best to pay close attention to how each individual cat reacts to catnip in order to determine if evening use is appropriate.
In general, it’s a good idea to use catnip judiciously before bedtime. Giving a small amount earlier in the evening and observing the cat’s reaction can help determine if it aids relaxation or causes hyperactivity. As with any supplement, moderation is key.
Safe Use of Catnip
When giving catnip to your cat, it’s important to follow some basic guidelines to ensure safe use:
Give catnip in moderation. Small amounts are sufficient to provide the enjoyable effect for your cat. Too much catnip can cause overstimulation or anxiety. A good rule of thumb is to give your cat 1-2 pinches of dried catnip or 1-2 fresh catnip leaves at a time. Observe your cat’s reaction to determine the ideal amount.
Allow sufficient breaks between catnip doses. It’s best to limit catnip to no more than 1-2 times per day. Giving catnip too frequently can reduce its effect over time. Give your cat an hour or two to “sober up” from the catnip before offering more.
Properly store catnip to maintain freshness. Keep dried catnip in an airtight container out of sunlight. Fresh catnip leaves should be refrigerated in a plastic bag or container. Fresher catnip will hold its aromatic oils better. Discard old catnip that has lost its scent and flavor.
Choose organic, high-quality catnip from a reputable source. Lower quality catnip may be less potent or contain contaminants. Catnip sprayed with chemicals should be avoided. Buy catnip specifically grown for pet consumption.
Following these catnip safety tips will allow you to enjoy the positive effects of catnip with your feline friend while avoiding overuse.
Alternatives to Catnip
While catnip is popular for its stimulating effects on cats, there are some other safe herbs and scents that can provide similar enrichment. According to catoropets.com https://catoropets.com/blogs/news/4-alternatives-to-catnip, alternatives like silvervine and valerian root can also attract and excite cats. Silvervine, in particular, contains an active compound called actinidine that binds to feline receptors similar to nepetalactone in catnip.
In addition to alternative herbs, providing interactive cat toys can give your cat an enriching experience to substitute for catnip playtime. Toys like feather wands, puzzle feeders, laser pointers, and automated toys can engage your cat’s natural predatory instincts for hunting, pouncing, and playing. Just be sure to monitor your cat during play and offer breaks to prevent overstimulation.
Key Takeaways
When used responsibly, catnip can be a fun and relaxing treat for many cats. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:
– Catnip is non-addictive and is safe for most cats when given occasionally and in moderation.
– Kittens younger than 3-6 months should not have catnip, as it can have an unintended excitatory effect on their developing brains.
– Only give catnip right before bedtime if your cat tends to get sleepy from it. Otherwise, it may make your cat too active to sleep.
– Monitor your cat’s reaction to catnip and adjust frequency and dosage if they show signs of negative side effects.
– Never force your cat to have catnip if they seem disinterested or have an averse reaction.
– Try catnip alternatives like silver vine or cat thyme if your cat doesn’t respond to pure catnip.
– Use 100% organic catnip and avoid products with artificial flavors or chemicals.
– Ultimately know your cat’s unique preferences and personality when making decisions about catnip.