What is catnip?

Catnip, a herb closely related to mint, contains a substance called nepetalactone that interacts with the cat’s olfactory system. When cats smell catnip, they experience behavioral changes that can mimic a female cat going into heat. 

What does catnip do to cats / why do cats like catnip ?

This compound triggers a euphoric reaction in cats, leading to behaviours like meowing, flipping, rolling, rubbing, and zoning out. Some cats may even become aggressive when playing with catnip. 

The effects of catnip can include playfulness, affection, relaxation, and even mild hallucinatory effects. Cats can react differently to catnip, with about 20% not being attracted to it. 

The effects of catnip typically last up to two hours, and most cats lose interest in it after around 10 minutes. While catnip is safe for cats, too much exposure can lead to dizziness, diarrhoea, trouble walking, or vomiting. It is essential to control your cat’s exposure to catnip and consult with a veterinarian for guidance on the correct dosage for your feline friend. 

How does catnip affect a cat’s behaviour

Catnip affects a cat’s behaviour by triggering a range of responses due to the compound nepetalactone found in the plant. When cats smell catnip, this compound interacts with their olfactory system, causing behavioural changes that mimic a female cat going into heat. 

The effects of catnip can vary among cats, with some displaying overt signs of affection, relaxation, and happiness, while others may exhibit active behaviours like playfulness or even aggression. 

The most common reactions to catnip include meowing, flipping, rolling, rubbing, and zoning out. Some cats may become hyperactive or aggressive, especially if approached while under the influence of catnip. 

The behavioural impacts of catnip can also include playfulness, affection, and relaxation. It’s important to note that not all cats respond to catnip, with about 20% not being attracted to the plant. The effects of catnip typically last around 10 minutes, with the possibility of lasting up to two hours. 

After this period, a cat may need about 30 minutes without exposure to catnip to become susceptible to its effects again. While catnip is safe for cats, too much exposure can lead to health issues like vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or difficulty walking. 

Can catnip be addictive for cats

Catnip is not addictive for cats. While some cats may exhibit strong reactions to catnip, such as rolling, rubbing, or hyperactivity, they do not develop a physical addiction to the herb. Studies have shown that cats do not go through withdrawal if their exposure to catnip is stopped. 

However, cats can develop a tolerance to catnip with regular exposure, meaning they may become less responsive to its effects over time. Overall, catnip is safe for cats and can be a source of enjoyment and enrichment without the risk of addiction.

Some alternatives to catnip for cats

Some alternatives to catnip for cats include silver vine, valerian root, Tatarian honeysuckle, and olives. These plants and substances can also produce a euphoric effect on cats, similar to catnip, and can be used as alternatives for cats that do not respond to catnip. 

Silver vine, in particular, has been found to be effective in almost 80% of cats, compared to 68% of cats that responded to catnip. Additionally, many cats who do not respond to catnip do respond to one or more of these alternatives.

What are the benefits of using silver vine as an alternative to catnip

Silver vine is a plant native to Asia that can be used as an alternative to catnip for cats. It contains two main chemicals, actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide, that elicit similar reactions in cats as nepetalactone in catnip. 

Silver vine has several advantages over catnip, including being longer-lasting, more potent, and less likely to cause overstimulation or aggression in cats. It is generally considered safe and can be used to improve the quality of cats’ lives. 

Additionally, silver vine has been found to be effective in nearly 80% of cats, compared to 68% of cats that responded to catnip. This makes it an excellent choice for pet owners looking to provide their feline companions with a safe and enjoyable experience.

What are some common ways to use catnip with cats

Common ways to use catnip with cats include:

1. Dried catnip: You can buy bags of loose dried catnip for your cat to eat, sniff, or roll around in. It can be sprinkled around your cat’s play area or put inside a toy for them to mess around with.

2. Catnip sprays: A catnip spray is a great option if your cat experiences a tummy upset after eating catnip, as they can sniff it or rub themselves in it instead. You can also use it to encourage them to play with a certain toy or to use their bed.

3. Catnip treats: You can buy catnip treats for your cat to enjoy, which can provide a fun and entertaining moment that’ll brighten your cat’s day and yours.

It’s important to store catnip in a sealed container and place it somewhere your cat can’t get their paws on it, as the temptation will be there.

What are some catnip toys or accessories

Some catnip toys or accessories include:

1. Cat Pillow Set with Cat Toys: A set of plush cat toys filled with dried catnip plant, providing a stimulating and euphoric effect for cats.

2. Catnip Toys for Cats: Various catnip toys designed to activate a cat’s instinct to play and nap, offering companionship and entertainment.

3. Catnip Alternatives Blends and Toys: Blends of catnip alternatives in toy form, providing a variety of herbs that cats are likely to respond to.

4. Catnip-Alternatives Blend Mouse Toy: A toy infused with catnip-alternative blends, offering cats a stimulating play experience.

5. Organic Catnip Toys: Potent and organic catnip toys that stimulate cats while relieving stress and anxiety.

These catnip toys and accessories can provide entertainment, stimulation, and relaxation for cats, catering to their natural instincts and preferences.

Where can i buy catnip toys for cats

You can buy catnip toys for cats at various pet stores and online retailers. Here are some options:

1. Litterbox offers a selection of potent, organic catnip toys that stimulate cats while relieving stress and anxiety.

2. Petco is a popular pet store chain with locations across the United States, including Cleveland, Ohio, where you can find catnip toys and other cat supplies.

3. PetSmart is another popular pet store chain with locations across the United States, including Parma, Ohio, where you can find catnip toys and other cat supplies.

4. Space Kitty Express offers a variety of catnip alternatives blends and toys, including a catnip-alternatives blend mouse toy.

5.. Amazon.com offers a wide variety of catnip toys, including refillable ones, such as the Catnip Ball Toy for Cats and the Catnip Matatabi Pillow for Cats & Kittens.

6. Petco.com offers a selection of catnip toys, including catnip wands and teaser toys.

7..Jifatu Shopping Centre in Kano, Nigeria, offers a variety of pet supplies, including catnip toys.

These are just a few options for where to buy catnip toys for cats. It’s always a good idea to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.

How to use valerian root as an alternative to catnip

Valerian root is a popular alternative to catnip for cats. It is an all-natural plant that has a super pungent smell that can give cats a big reaction. Valerian root is perfect to try if your cat is one of the 40% who don’t react to catnip or you are just looking for something else for them to enjoy during playtime.

 It can be purchased as a catnip alternative for cats, such as the Meowy Janes Valerian Root, which is grown without pesticides and chemicals and is pure and potent. 

The product is highly potent and packed with two naturally occurring oils that drive cats wild, promoting play and helping to relieve anxiety and boredom in house cats. It is safe and healthy for cats and can be used as a great value for 7.5 fl oz of high-quality Valerian Root.

The behaviours of cats on valerian root are similar to the commonly experienced behaviours of cats on catnip, such as rolling, chin and cheek rubbing, meowing, pouncing, drooling, and licking. The reaction of cats to valerian root is based solely on the scent of the essential oils, which are thought to mimic cat pheromones, putting them in a playful or loving mood. 

Valerian root is not a drug that is eaten or metabolised by cats, and there are no long-term effects. The effects usually only last between 5-30 minutes, and young kittens who haven’t reached maturity may not react until they are a bit older. 

Valerian root is completely safe for cats to smell and ingest in the amounts used in play. It is impossible for cats to overdose on, be addicted to, have withdrawal from, or cause any long-lasting physical effects.

Some popular valerian root toys for cats

Valerian root can be used in toys, such as refillable mouse toys, which make it easy for your cat to enjoy playtime. You can flip the mouse ‘head’ open, put in as much or as little catnip, alternative, or blend as you like, fold the ‘head’ back over, and the refillable mouse toys do not have to be fully stuffed. 

A little goes a long way, and when the herbs begin to lose potency, you can simply empty the toy out then refill it. The unique design will keep the herbs inside without any snaps, zips, or closures. The refillable toys are great fun for individual play and make a perfect bonding playtime toy too.

Valerian root can also be used as an olfactory enrichment for cats who do not respond to catnip. It is a safe and effective alternative for cats that do not respond to catnip, silver vine, or Tatarian honeysuckle. It may also be of benefit for training or socialising cats in shelter situations or to alleviate stress in cats during transportation, boarding, or medical procedures.

What are the benefits of using valerian root toys for cats

The benefits of using valerian root toys for cats include:

1. Relaxation and Stress Relief: Valerian root can help cats relax during stressful situations like shows, fireworks, or other events that disrupt their routine. It has a calming effect on cats, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

2. Mental Stimulation and Exercise: Valerian root toys can provide mental stimulation for cats, encouraging playfulness and excitement. Cats often exhibit playful behaviours like rolling, rubbing, and chasing after being exposed to valerian root, which can also lead to physical exercise.

3. Long-Lasting Effects: The beneficial effects of valerian root toys can last beyond the initial playtime, leaving cats calm and relaxed even after the interaction with the toy. This lasting effect can be particularly useful in multi-cat households or during prolonged stressful situations.

4. Safe and Natural: Valerian root is a safe and natural alternative to catnip, offering cats a different sensory experience without the risk of addiction, overdose, or long-term effects. It is non-toxic and can be safely ingested or smelled by cats in appropriate amounts.

Overall, valerian root toys provide a stimulating and enjoyable experience for cats, promoting their well-being, mental sharpness, and physical activity in a safe and natural way.