You are probably aware of how catnip affects your cats. And, like me, wondered whether it was something to be concerned about or not. If so, this article is for you.
I have a couple of cats who are unaffected by catnip and several others who absolutely love it and will roll around a rub their faces on whatever has the smell. One or two even get to the point of being glassy-eyed and drool. Those last few really concerned me so I looked into it.
Here’s a picture of a cat who had too much catnip. LOL
Just What Is Catnip?
Catnip is a herbaceous perennial in the Lamiaceae family group. Although it is a perennial, it can be grown year-round. Catnip has heart shaped green to grayish leaves and a sturdy stalk or stem. The plants can have tube shaped flowers — usually pink, blue, white or lilac. Sometimes the flowers have tiny purple dots.
How Does Catnip Affect Cats?
Some cats react more strongly than others. And, some do not react at all. Some cats can become sedated and will fall asleep or just lay around. Others can become hyper and start running around, meowing, jumping or rolling in the catnip. Pupils will also become dilated.
What Causes The Reaction?
Nepetalactone is the primary active ingredient in catnip. It stimulates the cat’s olfactory system and many believe it may also stimulate the cat’s pheromonic receptor. A pheromone produces a chemical reaction in the cat which affects it behavior.
Is Catnip Dangerous?
Catnip is not toxic or harmful. Since a cat usually inhales catnip rather than eating it, overdosing does not occur. A cat will throw up if they do ingest too much and it upsets their stomach. Young kittens (under the age of 3 months) and senior cats usually do not respond to catnip at all.
So, now you know — catnip is safe for your cats. In fact, if you know your cat’s response is to calm down, you could use it when you need to take them to the vet’s office or when they are too rambunctious.
Purrs, Frankie
Kira here. Yeah, give me catnip. I love the stuff. It makes me feel, well, very good to say the least. I hog it all to myself. I hate to share it. Gotta go and see if I can find some now. Kira out.
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