Capable of unleashing overflowing emotions, excitement and boundless playful behavior, this unique herb has conquered the hearts of countless felines.
What is catnip for cats?
Nepeta cataria is a perennial plant native to Europe that belongs to the mint family. It is known as catnip, cat basil or catnip. This plant has a citrus aroma, petiolate leaves with a serrated edge, a grayish stem, purplish flowers, and a large amount of hair. It measures between 20 and 60 centimeters in height.
Nepeta cataria is one of the most recommended plants for cats, along with thyme or licorice root. An essential oil called nepetalactone is extracted from it, which is what attracts cats. Nepetalactone has a sedative and relaxing effect on cats, and it can also help reduce stress and anxiety.
If you have a cat, you can give Nepeta cataria in the form of a dried herb, essential oil, or toy. Dried grass can be placed in a container or in a cat toy. The essential oil can be diluted in water and sprinkled on the cat’s bed or play area. Nepetalactone toys are available at most pet stores.
Nepeta cataria is a safe and natural plant for cats. However, it’s important not to give your cat too much dried herb or essential oil, as it can cause vomiting or diarrhea. If your cat has an allergic reaction to Nepeta cataria, stop giving the plant immediately and consult a veterinarian.
Effects of catnip for cats
Catnip is an herb that has a psychoactive effect on cats. The compound responsible for this effect is nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves and stems of the plant.
Not all cats are sensitive to nepetalactone. It is estimated that 70-80% of cats are affected by it, but the rest do not seem to notice it. Cats that are sensitive to nepetalactone experience a variety of effects, including:
- Euphoria
- Excitation
- Game
- Chew
- Rub
- Roll
- Meows
- Hunting imaginary animals
The effects of catnip usually last about 10 minutes. Once the effects have passed, cats develop an immunity to nepetalactone for about 30 minutes.
Pros and Cons of Catnip for Cats
Pros
- Relieves stress and anxiety: Catnip can help reduce stress and anxiety in cats, especially in stressful situations such as trips to the vet or changes in the home.
- Promotes play and socialization: Catnip can help stimulate cats and promote play. It can also help cats socialize with other cats and people.
- Help cats learn their territory: Catnip can help cats learn their territory and mark their zones. This can be helpful for cats who are new to a home or who have behavioral problems.
Cons
If you’re not sure if your cat is sensitive to catnip, you can try giving them a small amount. If your cat reacts, you can give them more. If it doesn’t react, there’s no need to force it.
Here are some tips for using catnip safely:
- Start with a small amount and gradually increase if necessary.
- Supervise your cat when you give him catnip to make sure he doesn’t eat too much.
- Avoid giving catnip to cats who are sick or stressed.
- Store the catnip in a cool, dry place.
Bibliography
- Bernard, S. A., Stejskal, K., & Carney, T. (2018). The effect of a Nepeta cataria on postoperative pain in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Veterinary Nursing Journal, 33(12), 337-342. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16699135/
- Lingna Z., Zhaowei B., Qingshen L., Baichuan D. (2022). Dealing With Stress in Cats: What Is New About the Olfactory Strategy?https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.928943/full
- Klintip, W., Jarudecha, T., Rattanatumhi, K., Ritchoo, S., Muikaew, R., Wangsud, S., & Sussadee, M. (2022). First study on stress evaluation and reduction in hospitalized cats after neutering surgery. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9631363/
- Baranauskiene, R., Venskutonis, R. P., & Demyttenaere, J. C. R. (2003). Sensory and instrumental evaluation of catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) aroma. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12797753/
SOUTHERN PHARMA SPAIN S.L will not assume any liability arising from the use by third parties of the content of the website and may exercise all civil or criminal actions that correspond to it in the event of infringement of these rights by the user. It is absolutely forbidden to use the website or any of its elements for illicit purposes. The benefits and properties of cbd that could be read on the website www.gorillagrillz.com are in no way attributed to the products sold on the website. CBD products are not medicines and should not replace treatments with them. What you can read on our website are not official medical claims but references to preclinical studies. If you have any questions, you can consult with a professional health personnel. We remind you that in Spain CBD products are for topical use. All products have THC<0.2% analyses in accordance with Royal Decree 1729/1999.
| Pablo Ruiz Professional copywriter. |
