Catnip: what is catnip — benefits, uses and how to choose the best one for your pet 🐱🌿

Catnip (also known as cat grass ) is one of those accessories that can transform your feline's playtime and well-being. In this article, we explain clearly and practically what it is , how it works , its benefits , how to use it safely , and how to choose quality products. 😺✨

What exactly is catnip?

Catnip is the plant Nepeta cataria , belonging to the mint family. The compound responsible for its effect on cats is called nepetalactone , an essential oil concentrated in the leaves and stems. Not all cats react : sensitivity is genetic—many studies and veterinary reviews estimate that between 50% and 70% of cats are sensitive to catnip.

💡 Alternatives to catnip: Silver vine (Actinidia polygama) and valerian contain different active compounds that often affect cats that do not react to nepetalactone.

What effects does catnip have on cats? 🌀

When a cat smells or tastes nepetalactone , it typically exhibits behaviors such as rolling, rubbing, meowing, intense sniffing , more active play , or, in some cases, relaxation . These effects are usually temporary , lasting between 5 and 15 minutes ; after this, the cat needs a rest period to become sensitive to the stimulus again. These responses occur because nepetalactone activates olfactory receptors and triggers instinctive behaviors.

Is catnip a “drug”? Is it dangerous?

No: although it's colloquially called "catnip," catnip is not a drug and does not create chemical dependency like some human substances of abuse. It can, however, cause some adverse reactions such as digestive upset if ingested in excess (vomiting or diarrhea in some cats). Therefore, it is safe in moderate use , but it's always advisable to supervise the first exposure and follow dosage recommendations.

How to introduce catnip to your cat 🐾

1. Start small : offer a small portion and observe.
2. Supervise the first feeding : monitor behavior and possible vomiting.
3. Alternate sessions : leave 48–72 hours between strong exposures to avoid habituation.
4. Use toys or scratching posts : sprinkle a little to redirect behavior.
5. If your cat doesn't react, don't insist : up to 30–50% show no sensitivity to catnip.

Benefits of cat grass 🌟

Catnip isn't just "fun," it can provide practical benefits for your feline:

• Physical and mental stimulation : encourages play and exercise, useful for sedentary or low-activity indoor cats.
• Stress and anxiety reduction : in many pets it acts as a situational calming agent (travel, visits to the vet, changes at home, …)
• Improved appetite : in lethargic cats it can serve as a stimulus to become interested in food.
• Training and environmental enrichment tool : sprinkled on scratching posts or inside toys to guide your cat's behavior.

Safety and possible side effects (use responsibly) ⚠️

Catnip is generally safe , but it should be used with common sense:

• Excesses : as we have already mentioned, chewing/ingesting large quantities can cause vomiting or diarrhea in sensitive cats.
• Overactivity : Some cats may become agitated or behave aggressively; always supervise behavior and first exposure.
• Allergies : rare, but possible (sneezing or irritation).
• It does not replace veterinary treatment for chronic anxiety or medical problems.

👉 Offer your cat short sessions of catnip, alternate with other toys, and limit its access.

Commercial formats of catnip and how to choose quality products

In this section we mention some of the product formats you could choose to buy the next time you want or need catnip for your pet; each one has its advantages:

1. Dried grass (in bags or jars) : ideal for sprinkling on toys or scratching posts.
2. Toys filled with catnip
3. Catnip spray : practical for reactivating toys or scratching posts without replacing the grass.
4. Seeds / pots (fresh grass) : ideal for those seeking naturalness and the experience of planting at home.

Plant catnip at home

Growing catnip at home is a great way to experiment with catnip and have a supply of it without having to buy it regularly. Germination kits or small pots of Nepeta cataria are available for purchase.

Here are some quick instructions to keep in mind when planting catnip:

• Sowing: light substrate, lightly cover the seeds.
• Watering: Keep the plant moist and avoid waterlogging.
• Indirect light ; no strong direct sunlight on seedlings.
• Harvest: collect the leaves when the plant is stable and you see that it has finished its growth period.

Frequently asked questions about catnip