Why Cats Like Catnip

1 Why Cats Like Catnip

Why cats like catnip

In fact, cats like catnip only because it contains a chemical called ‘nepetalactone,’ which is much like a sedative for humans. Smelling catnip, a cat immediately loses control—some get excited and roll around drooling; some eat a bit and hug it; others squint in bliss. Our survey found about 70% of cats can’t resist catnip.

What kinds of catnip are there

There are many kinds of catnip; the common ones on the market are catnip and silver vine (matatabi). What’s the difference between them?

Although catnip is jokingly called ‘cat cannabis,’ compared with human cannabis addiction, a single small amount of catnip has almost no side effects for cats—it just gives them a high. For indoor cats it’s a good way to relieve stress and have fun. About 60%–75% of adult cats react excitedly to catnip, while kittens and the remaining adults are indifferent.

Silver vine (matatabi) is different from catnip—almost 100% of cats like it! Of course a few proud cats disdain it. The branches, leaves, and fruit of silver vine are relatives of kiwi. This plant’s branches, leaves, and fruit have an ‘exciting’ effect on cats similar to catnip—instant high. Besides, cats that often chew silver vine can clean their teeth through physical friction.

One thing to note: because silver vine has medicinal properties—any medicine has its toxicity—don’t increase the dose just because the cat shows no reaction, or it may damage the cat’s kidneys.

Is catnip harmful?

Cats become interested in catnip only after 6 months old, return to normal in 5–15 minutes, and need at least 2 hours before they find it interesting again after one ‘high.’ Feeding some catnip regularly induces the cat to vomit hairballs, but not too much—a fingertip amount each time is enough.

Catnip itself is not addictive, but still don’t overfeed, owners! Too much can cause breathing difficulty!

Also, once a catnip toy has been played out, put it in a sealed box or the fridge to keep it fresh. Letting cats enjoy catnip 2–3 weeks at a time is enough.