What Happens If a Cat Eats Too Much Catnip?

1 What Catnip Does and How to Feed It Safely

1. What catnip does for a cat

Catnip is nicknamed ‘cat cannabis.’ It contains nepetalactone, a compound that excites cats, cheers them up, and helps expel hairballs. Not every cat reacts — about 30% show no response — and it works best on adult cats; kittens and seniors react little. Its main effects:

1. Eases tension and anxiety, calming the mood. 2. Stimulates appetite, good for poor eaters. 3. Excites the cat and increases activity. 4. Aids digestion and relieves gas and stomach discomfort.

Most cats sneeze, roll on the floor, or meow after catnip — these are normal reactions and usually harmless. To keep catnip appealing and avoid over-excitement, control the amount you give.

2. How to feed catnip

Use it as a reward for good behavior, or when the cat is stressed. The right ways:

1. After a scare or in a new home, a little catnip settles the cat and strengthens your bond. 2. For low appetite, a little can boost interest in food. 3. For a lazy cat, sprinkle catnip in different spots to excite it and add exercise.

Note: do not overfeed. Too much over-excites the cat and may lead it to hurt itself or you. Large amounts also reduce its response to catnip, so feed it sensibly.