Catnip: The Feline-Friendly Plant Every Cat Lover Should Know About

The secret behind catnip’s feline appeal lies in nepetalactone, an organic compound found in the plant. This oil-like substance enters a cat’s nasal tissues and triggers an almost instant euphoric neurological response. That’s why cats react so dramatically after just one sniff. Interestingly, it’s not just house cats that respond to nepetalactone; larger felines like lions, leopards, and tigers exhibit similar reactions. Beyond catnip, nepetalactone is also found in the wood of Tatarian honeysuckle plants, which are often used as an effective alternative in cat toys.

The great news for cat owners is that catnip is entirely safe for your feline friend. Extensive research has shown that it’s non-toxic and widely used in various forms, including dried herb, infused toys, and satchels. While catnip produces a temporary “high,” it’s not addictive, so you don’t need to worry about dependency. Occasionally, cats may experience minor stomach upset if they consume large amounts of catnip, but this is rare. For most cats, catnip is a harmless way to have fun and unwind.

Catnip works fast but doesn’t last long. A small amount is all it takes to send your cat into a playful frenzy, but the effects typically wear off after about 10 minutes. Afterward, cats enter a refractory period, lasting roughly an hour, during which they won’t respond to catnip again. This short-lived burst of excitement is part of what makes catnip so fun for cats—and their humans, too!

While inhaling catnip triggers an energetic and euphoric response, ingesting it has the opposite effect on cats. When eaten, catnip acts as a sedative, creating a calming sensation similar to its effect on humans. This soothing impact is still safe and enjoyable for cats, although consuming large quantities could potentially lead to mild digestive upset. Proper storage of dried catnip in an airtight container can prevent accidental overindulgence.

Not all cats react to catnip, and that’s perfectly normal. Studies suggest that anywhere from 30% to 70% of cats may be immune to its effects. The response to catnip is hereditary, meaning your cat’s genes determine whether they’ll enjoy its euphoric buzz. If your cat doesn’t respond to catnip, alternatives like silver vine and Tatarian honeysuckle may do the trick. These options have been shown to elicit reactions in cats who are otherwise indifferent to catnip.

If your kitten doesn’t seem interested in catnip, it might be due to their age. Kittens under six months old typically don’t react to catnip because their neurological systems haven’t fully developed. Once they reach puberty, their response to catnip may kick in if they are genetically predisposed to it. If you’re eager to try catnip with your young feline, wait until they’re about six months old and offer a small amount to see if they enjoy it.

Catnip, officially known as Nepeta cataria , belongs to the mint family and is closely related to catmint. While the two plants look similar, catmint is often cultivated for its beautiful purple flowers and fragrant green leaves. Like catnip, catmint is easy to grow, drought-tolerant, and requires minimal maintenance. Cat owners who enjoy gardening can cultivate their own supply of catnip or catmint, drying the leaves to create fresh treats for their furry companions.

Interestingly, catnip doesn’t just appeal to cats—it has benefits for humans, too. For people, catnip acts as a natural sedative, often used to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It’s commonly brewed into tea or combined with other calming herbs to help with insomnia and stress. Catnip is also available in capsule and tincture forms, offering a natural remedy for headaches, restlessness, and other ailments. Its soothing properties make it a versatile herb for both felines and their owners.

Like most herbs, catnip loses its potency as it ages. The dried herb is most effective within the first six months after harvesting. Proper storage is essential to maintain its strength—keep your catnip in an airtight container and consider freezing it for long-term preservation. If you use catnip-infused toys, remember to replace them every six months to ensure your cat continues to enjoy its full effects.

While catnip’s scent is irresistible to cats, it has the opposite effect on certain insects. The compound nepetalactone is a powerful mosquito repellent, often claimed to be up to ten times more effective than DEET, a common ingredient in commercial bug sprays. Catnip also deters cockroaches and houseflies, making it a surprising yet natural option for pest control. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to keep bugs at bay, catnip may be worth considering.