Nepeta cataria is a member of the famous Lamiaceae, or mint, plant family. It’s an aromatic flowering species native to Europe, Asia and Africa, although it can now be found here in North America as well. Whether from a live plant or dried, your cat’s excellent sense of smell detects the compound nepetalactone, responsible for those well-known reactions like rolling, pawing, vocalizing, and generally acting crazy-happy for up to several minutes at a time. Oddly enough, the catnip plant’s traditional “human” use is for its soothing effect!
If your cat couldn’t give a flip about catnip, it’s because he or she didn’t inherit the gene that makes cats receptive to that chemical. It’s estimated that about two thirds of domestic cats are affected by catnip. In my household, it’s one half… Pandemonium goes wild for the stuff, but his littermate Dozo is totally uninterested. See for yourself!
Catnip is a completely safe, non-addictive indulgence for your kitties. It’s suggested you offer catnip every couple days to maximize its effectiveness. You can use it to spice up old toys, or make cat furniture or scratchers even more appealing. I like to hide it here and there and see how long it takes Pan to notice.
Here at Foster and Smith, catnip is served up four ways: grow-your-own live plant, our Feline Fantasia Flakes and Pellets, and our mess-free Mist. Pan and I are also big fans of the Mist, which creates much less of a situation when he paws it right out my hand.
Is your kitty a catnip connoisseur? Let me know in the comments.
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