What Is Catnip And How Does It Affect Your Cat or Kitten?

Catnip And Cats

Ever looked at the various Catnip treats and toys for your cat and wondered “But what is Catnip?" or “Is this weird herb any good for my cat?”

Well, if you did, no more wondering!

Read along to learn about the herb that has furballs around the world going crazy (in a good way!)

Important Discussion Points In This Guide

  • What Is Catnip?
  • Effects of Catnip on Cats
  • Benefits - Does Catnip Calm Your Cat?
  • Can Kittens have Catnip?

What Is Catnip?

From big cats to domestic cats, this greyish-green plant affects them all.

Also known as catmint and catswort, the plant is native to Europe, Asia and North America and has heart-shaped fuzzy leaves. From Fresh Catnip to Catnip toys, the herb is available in various forms and styles.

But what does this plant do? Is it good for your cat?

"Genetics determine your cats response to catnip"


Effects of Catnip on Cats

When your cat smells the herb, it enters through their nasal tissue reaching their brain triggering a response.

The responses to it differ based on the dosage and the medium of consumption. Some cats can also react mildly aggressive under catnip.

But the most common reaction ranges from hyperactivity (rolling around or jumping) to calmness.

Benefits of Catnip on Cats

Benefits - Does Catnip Calm Your Cat?

Calming your anxious kitty is one of the major benefits of this herb. In some cases, it has also shown to relieve pain from injuries.

Catnip toys have also shown to grab pets attention quickly, resulting in a fun and interactive playtime.

But, this popular feline attractant does not affect every cat. Genetics play a huge role when it comes to cats and their response to catnip.

Effects of Catnip On Cats - Catnip Toys and Catnip Sprays

Can Kittens have Catnip? How Much Can a Cat have?

Kittens do not possess the ability to react to catnip until they reach an age of 6 months or above. So, even if you introduce it to them, the response is not as dependable as the herb is not effective on kittens.

Once they reach six months of age, you can ascertain their love or indifference towards it by giving them cat toys or offering a little bit of the herb to smell.

Shop Interactive Catnip Toy For Kittens
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It is best to give your cat, small dosages of the herb occasionally. Fresh catnip is also quite potent than the dried form, so you won’t need to give your cat as much of it.

Though it is non-toxic, consumption in large amounts can cause diarrhoea and nausea in your pet. Also keep in mind, that after consumption, your pet will react to it only after a couple of hours.

For pets who love catnip, you could also try out cat toys, catnip sprays or even sprinkle a little bit of the herb once in a while on their scratchboard to make their day.

Shop Cool Cat Toys For Your Pet
Poochles Catnip Infused Mouse Shaped Cat Toy With Feathers
Poochles Catnip Infused Mouse Shaped Cat Toy With Feathers
Poochles Catnip Infused Mouse Shaped Cat Toy With Feathers

Poochles Catnip Infused Mouse Shaped Cat Toy With Feathers

Rs. 225.00
Basil Refillable Catnip Cotton Plush Cat Toy - Assorted
Basil Refillable Catnip Cotton Plush Cat Toy - Assorted

Basil Refillable Catnip Cotton Plush Cat Toy - Assorted

Rs. 200.00
BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip
BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip
BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip
BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip
BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip
BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip

BASIL Cat Cardboard Scratcher Bed with Cat Nip

Rs. 600.00
Bark Butler Fofos Summer Juice with Pineapple Cat Toy
Bark Butler Fofos Summer Juice with Pineapple Cat Toy
Bark Butler Fofos Summer Juice with Pineapple Cat Toy
Bark Butler Fofos Summer Juice with Pineapple Cat Toy

Bark Butler Fofos Summer Juice with Pineapple Cat Toy

Rs. 349.00

Now that you know how catnip affects cats, check out this blog to know why cats eat grass.

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