What is Catnip and How Does it Affect Cats?

Catnip is a natural herb that has been used for centuries by humans and animals alike, but it is normally associated with cats. It is a member of the mint family and native to parts of Europe, the Middle East and Asia. Its Latin name is Nepeta Cataria and it is sometimes referred to as catmint.

Catnip has a potent odor and is typically used as a toy and reward for cats. It releases an aromatic chemical called nepetalactone, which cats detect through their olfactory sense receptors. The response to this aroma varies and not all cats are affected. Kittens under the age of three months are unlikely to have a reaction to catnip. Some cats may even become aggressive after being exposed to it.

How Does Catnip Affect Cats?

Upon catnip exposure, cats react by rubbing their face, biting, licking and eating the herb. Most cats become quite relaxed and happy, almost relieved of tension. They may also be more playful, purr and roll around. In general, cats appear to be in a trance-like state.

The effects of catnip typically last anywhere from a few minutes up to 15 minutes, and then gradually decrease. The effects can range from a slight change in behavior to manic activity. It may take cats anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours before they are affected by catnip again.

What Are the Benefits of Catnip?

Some kitties may initially resist playing with catnip, particularly if they have never been exposed to it before. However, most cats eventually become accustomed to it and it can be a great way to boost their spirits.

It’s also a natural way of providing cats with much-needed exercise, as they fight and swat the toy around the room. This encourages them to indulge in physical activity, which can be beneficial for cats that may not be getting enough exercise or that are aging.

Like humans, cats may also benefit from the calming effects of aromatherapy. When sniffing the catnip, cats can become more relaxed. This is useful for cats that tend to be skittish or anxious in certain situations, such as during vet appointments or when a new family member enters their home.

Conclusion

Catnip is a natural herb that has been used for centuries and is mainly associated with cats. It has a potent odor that cats react to, which often results in an ecstatic, trance-like state of happiness. Not all cats are affected by it and it may take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours before cats are affected by it again. It’s a great way to boost kitties’ spirits, provide them with much-needed exercise, and help them become more relaxed and calm.