Catnip is a naturally occurring herb that grows all around the world. To humans it smells very similar to mint, however to cats it smells incredible. If one grows catnip in their garden they may find all of the cats from the local neighbourhood will come to bask in its scent!
To most of us the catnip plant looks like weeds! It usually grows around 3 feet high and has a number of branches. The most distinctive feature is usually the small bunches of purple and white spotted flowers that bloom at the stem - that and the gang of cats purring all around it!
Although the plant can be found worldwide, it originated in Europe and it's latin name is Nepeta Cataria.
The active ingredient in the catnip that causes such effects in cats is an oil called nepetalactone. This mild hallucinogen needs to be inhaled in order to cause an effect. Cats often concentrate the smell using what is known as the Flehmen response. They pull back their gums and press their tongue against the roof of their mouths. This often gives the impression that a cat is smiling!
What does Catnip look like?
To most of us the catnip plant looks like weeds! It usually grows around 3 feet high and has a number of branches. The most distinctive feature is usually the small bunches of purple and white spotted flowers that bloom at the stem - that and the gang of cats purring all around it!
Effects of catnip?
The active ingredient in the catnip that causes such effects in cats is an oil called nepetalactone. This mild hallucinogen needs to be inhaled in order to cause an effect. Cats often concentrate the smell using what is known as the Flehmen response. They pull back their gums and press their tongue against the roof of their mouths. This often gives the impression that a cat is smiling!
When they come into contact with catnip, the majority of cats react in the same way. They will rub their cheek, chin and face into the herb, they will also sniff and lick it. Sometimes cats will roll on top of it in, almost in an attempt to cover themselves in the scent of the oils!
After these initial effects, other changes will begin to take place. These can actually be compared to those of intoxicated humans. For example slowed and slightly uncoordinated movement, slurred meowing and sometimes even displays of sexual arousal!
Depending on the dosage the effects usually only last for a handful of minutes. After this there is a cool-down period where the cats will display absolutely no interest in the catnip.
In rare circumstances cats become aggressive and agitated when exposed to catnip. If this happens simply leave the cat alone and do not agitate them further. The effects will quickly wear off and they will go back to normal shortly. If this happens it is probably best to avoid exposing the cat to catnip again.
It may also be worth noting that catnip does not effect all cats. Susceptibility has been shown to be a genetic trait and it has been estimated that around 30% of cats are actually immune to its effects!
Kittens are usually not effected by catnip and susceptibility often starts to develop around 6-8 weeks of age. If a cat is only 12 weeks old and they are not being affected by catnip then the chances are they are immune to its effects.
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