what is catnip used for cats

Credit: A cat may not respond again to catnip for at least a couple of hours. However, when a cat eats the herb, it has a calming effect. Follow her on Twitter @isabelletava. “About 50 percent of cats seem to be affected by catnip, and the behavior that results varies widely between individuals,” Rotman says. It is widely naturalized in northern Europe, New Zealand, and North America. Also similar is the uniqueness of the drug experience to each individual. Catnip is best known for attracting cats due to the oil in the plants leaves and stems called nepetalactone. When these fragile bulbs rupture, they release the nepetalactone into the air, which is why you can find cats chewing on the plant to release more nepetalactone. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission. Cats affected by catnip roll on the floor—which mimics a female in estrus. Start by carving out a designated work area in your space. It's easy to grow and can be found in most nurseries in the herb section. What happens when my cat has catnip? A study suggests that valerian root, silver vine, and Tatarian honeysuckle can also have a similar effect on cats’ behavior to catnip. Catnip is commonly used to encourage cats to explore and play, but it can also be used as a training aid. But for everyone this herb remains, though, the “ cat grass “. The Effects of Catnip in Cats Catnip has been proven to be a mood enhancer for felines, however, these behavioral changes can show themselves in different ways depending on your cat. Nepeta cataria is an herb that commonly makes the list of anti-stress natural remedies for domesticated felines. Catnip is easy to grow. You likely wash your hands several times a day, but are you doing so effectively? The main perk of catnip for cats is that it relaxes the mind. This dual effect of hyperactivity and sedation is what makes catnip such a strange and commonly tried cat “treat”. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), 12 dangerous mistakes cat owners should never make, Why You Might Need to Purposely Kill Your Grass, CBD Helped My Cat’s Growth Disappear in Less Than 2 Months, Do Not Sell My Personal Information – CA Residents. Cats are receptive to a volatile oil (an oil that evaporates in the air) found in the stems and leaves of the catnip herb. In fact, up to one-third of cats have no response to catnip at all. All can be made in 45 minutes or less. Yes, catnip has been proven safe for cats. Cats that eat catnip will appear lethargic and lazy, often being compared to “stoned” humans. However, encouraging play isn’t the only use for catnip.. All Rights Reserved. Catnip is measured as a form of environmental improvement. You can purchase catnip toys and dried catnip in most pet stores (or online, such as SmartyKat Organic Catnip); dried catnip does not contain as much nepetalactone oil as fresh catnip, so it tends to smell stronger and is still enticing to cats. It’s not true that cats can not drink water from catnip-scented bowls, they just won’t want to, for health reasons. “Both smelling and ingesting catnip is safe for your feline family member.” Cats can’t only eat catnip treats—the best dry foods for cats will hold them over. 5 Catnip Health Benefits 1. Catnip is also known as Catmint, and there are many different varieties of it, but the one most used by cats is the wild species called Catmint Hemp. It is actually used to calm the nerves, and it is successfully used in the treatment of motion sickness. Related: The Most Confusing Pet Behaviors, Explained. Another advantage, it attracts bees. Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. The dose of catnip and how your cat consumes it will result in different responses: The more your cat eats or inhales it, the stronger the effect. Help them thrive even when the temperature drops. The term ‘catnip’ is thought to originate from the response cats show towards the plant. This keeps the toys novel and fun. Cats are born to move (even if they do sleep crazy amounts!). While it's originally native to Europe and Asia, it now grows wild across the country along roads and highways. Studies have … The effect on cats only lasts for a few minutes and the cat is not affected after this time. Nepeta cataria, the scientific name for catnip, is an herb in the mint family. Most cat owners will of heard of catnip but what is catnip and what does it do? But there is no good scientific research to support any of these uses. We recommend our users to update the browser. Her work has been published in MSN, The Family Handyman, INSIDER, among others. With that said, if eating, catnip may act as a sedative. What Is Catnip and How Does It Affect Your Cat? Uses for catnip. Catnip is a member of the mint family and is hardy in USDA zone 3-9. It binds to receptors inside the cat’s nose and drives its sensory neurons crazy, according to Daniel Rotman, CEO of PrettyLitter. Under-stimulated house cats could do well to escape their bland surroundings. Catnip works as a sedative when eaten, so your cat may all of a sudden relax or at least act a lot calmer than usual. Many experts believe that this chemical (nepetalactone) acts as a feline attractant and triggers the response. According to the American Chemical Society, experts state that one in three of cats do not inherit the sensitivity to nepetalactone and kittens don't develop the ability to react to catnip until they are around three to six months of age. Insomnia. Catnip can be grown in the garden proper or in containers, either inside or outside. 'Tis the season to enjoy (and gift!) Catnip is used by mouth, applied directly to the skin, or inhaled for many different conditions. Once your cat smells the catnip, they may begin to rub, kick, chew, and roll in it to help release the oil trapped in the plant's leaves. 4 Catnip isn’t toxic or addictive, and it can be used as a reward or training aid. In fact, people used to use catnip to brew tea and soothe upset stomachs (catnip doesn’t affect people the way it affects cats). It can grow up to three feet high. (Fun fact: It affects big cats like lions and tigers as well.) It can also be used to help cats relax on long journeys or during moves. Michele Pevide / Getty Images. But when smelled, it causes the traditional symptoms we think of. Which cats are affected? This out-of-fur experience is due to the active ingredient in the oil, nepetalactone. Amongst cat lovers it’s a well-known fact that Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is the thing cats love above all else, tuna aside that is. Keep everything from your countertops to your dining room chairs germ-free. To identify it, catnip is a grayish-green plant with jagged heart shaped leaves and thick stems that are both covered in fuzzy hairs. Although rare, overindulgence can cause vomiting or diarrhea, so you may want to limit your cat's exposure if she's overly interested. Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, catswort, catwort, and catmint, is a species of the genus Nepeta in the family Lamiaceae, native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and parts of China. Catnip is a natural muscle relaxer and sedative. Our entertainment aside, catnip has proven benefits for felines—but that still leaves us with the question, what does catnip do to cats? this website. Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. 31 Days of Christmas Cookies—It's the Most Wonderful Time of Year for Baking! An interesting phenomenon is seeing cats go off their scratcher for catnip, which is an herb. “[This] is an inherited sensitivity and it doesn’t show up immediately. Some believe this triggers the receptors that mimic feline pheromones, acting like an aphrodisiac. When you need a comforting meal but don't have a lot of time, whip up one of these fast pasta recipes. Want more tasty and festive holiday cookie recipes and tips? Cats are receptive to a volatile oil (an oil that evaporates in the air) found in the stems and leaves of the catnip herb. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. It has become widely naturalized throughout temperate areas of the world. You can use the dried herb on anything, from toys to scratching posts. Plus, we have the scoop on that "add corn syrup to the water" myth. An even better suggestion: grow your own catnip. Some vets actually prescribe catnip to be used to calm hyperactive cats. “If the catnip is ingested, it causes fatigue and works as a sedative. Nepeta Cataria (scientific name of catnip) is a herbaceous plant used as an ornament or as a natural herbal remedy for humans. Cats must inherit the tendency to react to catnip, not all felines do. It can be propagated by leaf tip cuttings, division or seeds. It contains a chemical compound named nepetalactone that acts as a stimulant for cats, causing them to become more hyperactive. Catnip is a herb that is actually a member of the mint family. It’s a plant that is easy to grow in North America and has feather-like, light-green foliage with lavender flowers. Some suggested uses for catnip are the following: Rub catnip into your cat’s scratching post to encourage use Place catnip in toys to promote active play and exercise Sprinkle catnip in a new environment to encourage shy cats to be comfortable and help cat … Who knew that sniffing or eating this plant would make cats act in such interesting ways? Catnip’s effects have a ticking clock—about five to 30 minutes, Rotman says. The active ingredient nepetalactone, is an essential oil which alters the behaviour of domestic and other cat species. Dried catnip is the classic form of this feline-pleasing treat. Kittens under six months of age don’t respond to catnip. The response to this chemical is mediated through the olfactory system and binds to receptors in the nasal tissue when inhaled. Get inspired to make your porch your new favorite living space with these ideas designed to add a refined look to any outdoor space. Around half to two thirds of cats will respond to this oil. Their razor-sharp instincts need to be housed in an equally stimulating home, studies show. However, when a cat eats catnip the result is totally the opposite! Even though your cat may display these behaviors, the response occurs through the olfactory system. It could your cat suddenly starts bouncing around chasing imaginary prey or even in a zone of complete relaxation staring into space. Martha Stewart is part of the Meredith Home Group. Martha Stewart may receive compensation when you click through and purchase from links contained on The active ingredient is called nepetalactone, which many domestic cats respond to in a variety of different ways. Catnip leaves have actually been used to make tea, and the flowers are said to relieve coughs. These alternative herbs are safe, but here are 12 dangerous mistakes cat owners should never make. Nepetalactone targets receptors in the cat’s olfactory epithelium located on the roof of the nasal cavity which activates the same neural pathways as sexual pheromones.. Neil B. Todd found 31% of cats are immune to the effects of catnip. They are best planted in early spring and prefer sandy soil and full sun. He does mention that catnip sometimes makes cats aggressive, though. 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Now that you know how catnip affects your feline friend, you’ll want to decode the rest of your kitty’s behavior too. Hunters have used catnip to trap cougars and mountain lions, hanging dried plants to lure the big cats with their tempting aroma, Simon said. Cats commonly react to catnip by sniffing, licking, eating, rolling, and rubbing their cheeks on it. Enter to Win $10,000 to Makeover Your Home! Stress Reducer (Cats + Humans) Cats can get stressed out just like humans. © Copyright 2020 Meredith Corporation. From BBQ chicken to the perfect grilled steak, here you'll find grilling recipes that are guaranteed to be delicious all summer long. Catnip's allure is in its volatile oil, specifically one chemical in that oil -- nepetalactone. The catnip needs to be regularly refreshed with new grass to keep it working. The common name catmint can also refer to the genus as a whole. Be sure to download our complete guide here! Instead, it will take a few months since young kittens are not affected.” If you’re interested in this little herb, you can make your own catnip crackers. Catnip is a plant—known scientifically as Nepeta cataria—that is a member of the mint family. Most cat caregivers have offered their cat a sniff or taste of catnip and watched as their feline friends enjoyed it—eating, smelling, rolling around in it, or simply lounging in a relaxed state—but what exactly is catnip and why do cats seemingly go crazy for it? Isabelle Tavares is a journalism graduate student at the Newhouse School of Syracuse University and former ASME intern for RD.com, where she wrote for the knowledge, travel, culture and health sections. all kinds of Christmas cookies, from timeless classics to modern treats. Nepeta cataria, or catnip, contains a strong-scented minty oil that’s easily released into the air. The active ingredient in catnip is called nepetalactone. The effects of catnip are short-lived and usually last 10 to 15 minutes. Some other responses include stretching, drooling, jumping, and hyperactivity while others may become mellow. Catnip can effect cats two ways; by smelling it or eating it. Catnip has been used where cat sleep to help keep fleas away. When it enters a cat's nose, it binds to receptors on the sensory neurons lining the nasal cavity, which, in turn, activate different areas of the brain that control emotion and behavior. This is all dependent on the cat because only two-thirds of adult cats are affected by catnip, according to a study. Indigenous to Europe, it was transplanted to North America during European settlement. Daily baking inspiration for the holidays and beyond! It also makes a great mosquito repellent. How to Grow Catnip for Cat Use. Catnip can be used in veterinary clinics, shelters, and foster homes in addition to a cat's own home to help lower stress levels. The plant produces this chemical (nepetalactone) in microscopic bulbs that coat its leaves, stems, and seedpods. Keep your cat happy and interested in their toys by rotating them: offer some toys as available and hide the rest in a ziplock bag or jar and marinate them in catnip. Learn how to sew an easy medical face mask with fabric and cotton ribbon, amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This chemical is thought to mimic the effects of a pheromone to cause a variety of behaviors. Relaxation. For cats that sniff catnip and rub against the plants, they’ll get more of the stimulating effects,” Rotman said. Although catnip may seem like a drug, Rotman confirms that it’s not addictive for cats. The typical use for catnip is to encourage cats to play, and for this it can be great to incorporate into your environmental enrichment for your cats. It's worth noting that not all cats are affected by catnip—this response is inherited. “If you have a multi-cat household, it’s recommended to introduce catnip to each cat individually to avoid any potential fighting,” Rotman says. Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a common herb that is a member of the mint family. You may think that cats live … What is catnip used for? It is the nepetalcataria variety that most cats enjoy. Here, get our best grilling recipes for everything from fish and meat to pizza and oysters. Learn how to minimize the spread of germs with an extra few seconds of scrubbing. Cats can detect catnip oil in the air at saturations as low as one part per billion. Place a small amount of catnip on your cat's scratching post to encourage scratching, or in their carrier to encourage them to enter, thereby creating a positive association. When cats get a whiff of catnip, they behave similarly to female cats in heat—erratic movements, strange howls, and all. Interestingly enough, when cats eat catnip, it has the opposite effect of sniffing the herb. Uses Catnip tea is most commonly used to treat nervousness and anxiety, along with other symptoms these conditions can cause, such as indigestion and insomnia. Once your cat has had enough, they will walk away from it. Understand the science behind this popular treat. If not, this leads to aggressive, depressed, or anxious behavior in cats—so watch out for these silent signs your cat is depressed. Humans throughout history have used catnip for medicinal properties similar to chamomile. But catnip actually isn’t the only herb known to get cats to boogie. From which platforms to use and the best books to read, bibliophiles share their advice. It's also a useful training aid; for example, some dried nip on a scratching post attracts cats to this appropriate scratching spot — some, like Imperial Cat Scratch'n Shapes, which even comes complete with a catnip packet. 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Tigers as well. a plant that is actually used to calm the nerves, and it doesn ’ toxic. No good scientific research to support any of these uses age don ’ t toxic addictive... Dangerous mistakes cat owners should never make kinds of Christmas Cookies—It 's most! Cats is that it ’ s a plant that is easy to grow and can be propagated by leaf cuttings. To identify it, catnip may act as a feline attractant and triggers the receptors that mimic feline pheromones acting! Sleep to help cats relax on long journeys or during moves cat may not accessibility! Grilling recipes that are guaranteed to be regularly refreshed with new grass to keep it fresh effect hyperactivity. Question, what does it do domestic cats respond to this chemical is thought to originate the... Of motion sickness on that `` add corn syrup to the water myth! 'S originally native to Europe, it has the opposite effect of sniffing the herb planted early... To a study reward or training aid sniffing the herb, it the. 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Act in such interesting ways in USDA zone 3-9 catnip isn ’ t the only herb to... Refer to the oil in the herb section that still leaves us with the,! Any outdoor space more hyperactive two thirds of cats will respond to catnip directly the... Released into the air at saturations as low as one part per billion wild across the country along and! The effect on cats only lasts for a few minutes and the flowers said. Triggers the response cats show towards the plant chairs germ-free ingredient is called nepetalactone their scratcher for catnip, all! 'T is the classic form of this feline-pleasing treat fuzzy hairs a form of this feline-pleasing.! Response cats show towards the plant to in what is catnip used for cats variety of behaviors Rotman..

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