What is catnip good for? Is it really healthy if cats get high from it?

Most people have probably heard of catnip, but not everyone is familiar with the scientific background of this special herb. How exactly does it affect a cat's mood and behavior? That's what we’ll uncover in today’s article. It’s going to be interesting, so stay tuned!

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a particularly decorative, fragrant plant with purple flowers from the Lamiaceae family. Its leaves are used to make tea, and its flowers are used to soothe coughs. But most notably, for many cats, it sends them straight to feline heaven! Naturally, you might wonder if such a strong effect is healthy and whether it’s worth using for your pets, and if so, what the benefits might be.

How does it affect cats?

Cats have a special sixth sense—no, not the one that perceives ghosts—the vomeronasal organ, also known as Jacobson’s organ. This accessory olfactory organ is rare in the animal kingdom and is located on the roof of the mouth. It allows scents that gather in the nose and mouth to be processed directly by the brain.

When this organ comes into contact with the compound nepetalactone found in catnip, it triggers behavioral changes in cats. They begin to behave similarly to how females act during their heat cycle. They relax, seem happy, and exude love and playfulness. (In some breeds, aggressive behavior can also be observed.) Nepetalactone mimics feline sex hormones, so in short, they get high from it.

For cats that respond positively to catnip, veterinarians often recommend its use. Not only is it great for everyday enjoyment, but it can be a real blessing for pets suffering from separation anxiety.

How to use it?

However, you should be prepared for the possibility that catnip might not work. According to scientific studies, it affects about 60% of cats, and this is determined by genetics.

Like most herbs, catnip can lose its potency over time, so it’s recommended to store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. The effects vary from cat to cat, but the intoxicated state generally lasts about 10 minutes, and it takes 30 minutes before they can experience it again. It’s harmless to kittens, but they are usually not receptive to its effects before they’re six months to a year old.

Catnip is available in many forms, so feel free to experiment and figure out which version your pet enjoys the most. You can even grow the plant at home, as it requires little care. Many people swear by the simple, dried form, but you can also find catnip sprays or bubble blowers. Our personal favorites are toys filled with catnip.

Potential side effects

If you notice that your cat tends to eat the catnip in excitement, it’s better to use the spray version, as the plant has a laxative effect. There’s no need to panic if small amounts are ingested; it can actually aid digestion.

Although it’s generally a safe and beneficial plant, if you have any doubts or want to be completely sure, it’s always a good idea to consult a veterinarian. Even with the best things, moderation is key, so careful and measured use is always advisable.