Catnip, an enigmatic herb that turns even the most dignified feline into a frisky, playful kitten, has fascinated cat owners and scientists alike for centuries. This detailed exploration ventures into the botanical world of catnip, its effects on cats, and the peculiar and often hilarious reactions it provokes. We will delve into how catnip works, why it’s safe (or not), its utility, and its impact on humans.
What Is Catnip?
Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb from the mint family and boasts a widespread distribution across Europe and Asia. The plant features a stem with triangular, coarse-toothed leaves and bears white to pale pink flowers. It’s not only the odor of the catnip that attracts cats, but also its active ingredient, nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves, stems, and seeds.
How Does Catnip Work?
The magic starts with nepetalactone, a volatile oil in catnip that enters a cat’s nasal tissues and binds to protein receptors that stimulate sensory neurons. These neurons then provoke a response in neurons that interface directly with the brain’s amygdala and hypothalamus, areas known to participate in emotional and behavioral responses to stimuli, as well as the regulation of hormones.
Why Do Cats Love Catnip?
The reaction to catnip is hereditary, and it’s estimated that between 50% and 75% of cats are affected by this herb. For those that do respond, catnip temporarily stimulates their pheromonal receptors – sometimes leading to euphoric reactions. It mimics feline “happy” pheromones and stimulates the receptors that detect these pheromones in the environment.
How Do Cats React to Catnip?
Cats typically show a range of behaviors when exposed to catnip: from rolling, chewing, and pawing at it, to purring, leaping, and sometimes even hyperactivity followed by a mellow period. The response is highly individual, with some cats becoming calmer and more pensive.
Does Catnip Make Cats High?
Yes, in a way it does. Catnip produces a kind of high that is often compared to hallucinations or euphoria in humans. The behaviors exhibited by cats under the influence of catnip are similar to those observed in females attracting males. However, the effect is brief, lasting around 10 to 15 minutes.
How Long Do the Effects of Catnip Last?
The euphoria induced by catnip lasts for about 10 to 15 minutes, after which the cat becomes temporarily immune to its effects. It may take upwards of two hours before a cat will respond to catnip again after exposure.
Do All Cats Respond to Catnip?
No, catnip doesn’t affect all cats. Sensitivity to catnip is an inherited trait, and it’s thought that about one third of cats lack this genetic trait and thus show no reaction to the plant.
Is Catnip Bad for Cats?
For the vast majority of cats, catnip is safe. Overindulgence can cause mild upset stomach or diarrhea, so it’s recommended to offer catnip sparingly. It’s also worth noting that cats usually self-regulate and will walk away from catnip when they’ve had enough.
What Is Catnip Good For?
Beyond the fun and games, catnip can be used to encourage cats to use scratching posts or their beds, assist with training, and decrease stress during potentially distressing situations such as visits to the vet, or when introducing them to new environments.
How Should You Give a Cat Catnip?
You can either sprinkle dried catnip on a toy or scratching post or grow live plants. Catnip sprays are also available, which can be used on bedding or toys. However, to maintain potency and prevent habituation, catnip exposure should not be a constant affair.
Does Catnip Affect Humans?
While catnip targets feline neurological differences, it doesn’t have the same effect on humans. However, catnip has historically been used in folk medicine to soothe human ailments such as migraine headaches, insomnia, and even as an herbal remedy for colic in infants. When brewed as a tea, it can offer mild relaxation benefits for people, too.
Catnip’s fascinating influence on cats offers a unique peek into the complex interaction between plants and animals. While it remains mostly a source of entertainment and occasional kitty indulgence, understanding the how and why behind catnip’s allure helps cat owners use this herb wisely to enrich their pet’s life and activities.