There are different varieties of the catnip herb, including Greek catnip, catmint, and camphor catnip. Powered by Shopify. Let the catnip steep in the water for 5 minutes. Organic catnip isn’t treated with chemical pesticides. You can rub it on scratching posts, stuff it into socks for … The flowering tops are used to make medicine. Humans also respond differently to cannabis. They're both human- and cat-friendly consumables. Join the EASYOLOGY PETS CLUB for new videos, discount codes, and more! Long story short, he was obsessed, and much more active than usual, for all of about five minutes, anyway. Catnip Tea for Cats. “PETA is all for treating cat companions to reasonable amounts of high-quality catnip," PETA media officer Sophia Charchuk told The Conversation, "and for keeping them indoors, where they’ll be safe from cars, contagious diseases, predators, and cruel humans and able to enjoy toys (including those filled with catnip) for years to come.”, Even so, if you've been struggling with the issue of whether it's OK to give your kitty what is, essentially, a drug, here's some info that might settle your mind a bit: According to Scientific American, the plant isn't addictive, so there's no need to worry that you're encouraging a bad habit for your pet. Don't worry, catnip is natural, completely safe and nonaddictive fun for cats. The susceptibility of cats to catnip is gene dependent and passed down hereditarily, which means not all cats actually respond to the herb. Eating a small amount of catnip is unlikely to cause a cat any harm. Cats have various reactions to the herb, and one can often see them going crazy when given a sprinkle of catnip. Many cats simply don't have the receptors to be affected by catnip. It is not like drugs humans take! KittyStick Premium Cat Toy With Expandable Rod, bigger wild cats react similarly to catnip, Free Guide: How To Keep Your Kitty Litter Box Super Clean. Catnip … Is Catnip Bad For Cats – Is It Healthy For Pets Read More » Nothing is lasting about the effects of catnip. You can also get catnip oil or oil spray, which can be used to scent a toy or bedding. The secret between catnip and cats lies on the oil found on the plant’s leaves, roots, and seeds. only cats with the gene to detect it can get a "high" off of it, and if you give it to them all the time, they will get used to it and won't act that way anymore. If a cat "pukes" around a plant.....get RID of the plant!! Being affected by catnip is apparently an inherited trait. ), If you're still feeling unsettled about treating your sweet cat to catnip, it's totally fine to stick with fishy treats and a good ol' ball of yarn. When the cat smells catnip, the scent molecules travel to a receptor above the palate in the roof of the mouth known as the Vomeronasal Organ, aka Jacob’s Organ. Is catnip bad for dogs? For this reason, giving your dog catnip should only be under the right circumstances and conditions, and there are many resourceful ways to use catnip with your dog. Catnip tea! Despite their playful nature, kittens don't generally respond to catnip until after their first six months. “If the catnip is ingested, it causes fatigue and works as a sedative. They often times contain bells and fillings that a dog could easily digest. Catnip has traditionally been thought of as a wonderful stimulant for cats, but it also has numerous health benefits for their human counterparts. Lots of cat toys are stuffed with catnip. You can rub it on scratching posts, stuff it into socks for a simple toy, and sprinkle it into new beds among others. It is actually used to calm the nerves, and it is successfully used in the treatment of motion sickness. Despite their playful nature, kittens don't generally respond to catnip until after their first six months. This is thought to be due to genetics. Catnip has been proven to be safe for cats, although excessive amounts may result to a short spell of diarrhea. The susceptibility of cats to catnip is gene dependent and passed down hereditarily, which means not all cats actually respond to the herb. Unfortunately, cats do not know their limits when it comes to catnip and food and will commonly overindulge when given the opportunity. Apparently, catnip produces a similar reaction to dabbling with LSD or marijuana (although let’s assume that no cats were actually subjected to such drugs in the name of catnip research). About 30% of cats have no observable response to catnip. That “freak out” your cat may or may not have after smelling or eating catnip is 100% normal, safe, and temporary. Other cats appear to become very sedate after exposure. Being affected by catnip is apparently an inherited trait. Once the effects have worn off, they have in fact completely worn off. It doesn’t matter if she’s known as a lazy bum; the catnip will transform her into a fun and cheerful kitty, rubbing her face and body all over the plant to release more of the aromatic oil she loves. Catnip is not harmful for kittens, but most cats won’t react to catnip until they are 6 months to 1 year of age. A nice warm catnip tea or infusion can give a mild sedative effect and is also good for relieving nausea, headaches and even insomnia. When it comes to any animal-related ethical dilemmas, the first organization that comes to my mind is People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), and it turns out that they've actually addressed this very question. If your pet does become lost, ACT FAST! Catnip is harmless for your cat and can actually be beneficial. About 30% of cats have no observable response to catnip. Share your experience with us in the comment section below! It is non-toxic and has no adverse effect when consumed by cats. Almost immediately after smelling catnip, your cat will show a different side—one that’s all bouncy and energetic. Catnip mimics feline sex hormones, so cats enjoying this substance will often display behaviors similar to a female cat in heat (although both male and female cats can experience the effects). Being affected by catnip is apparently an inherited trait. No, not all catnip is the same. To make catnip tea, mix 2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves or flowers with 1 cup of boiling water. The good news is, catnip is non-toxic to cats of any age, including kittens. According to acclaimed cat behaviorist Jackson Galaxy, Some cats will sit in a big pile of the dried herb and simply drool, eyes glazed over, while others get completely hyper for a while, running laps throughout the house. Cats and Catnip; Home Made Catnip Goodies for Cats; Home Made Catnip Goodies for Cats. While it acts as a very effective stimulant for cats, it is actually a sedative for dogs. (“No, Kitty, that's a bad kitty!”) Cats love the smell of catnip, but is it OK for them to eat it? Add lemon juice and honey, stir, and let cool for several minutes. NOTE: Do not use catnip on pregnant cats, as it’s a uterine stimulant and could cause premature labour. If your cat is ingesting the catnip, then please do have a watch on how much she actually consumes it. Have you tried giving catnip to your cat? Though catnip itself is perfectly safe for dogs, catnip toys designed for cats are not. If the catnip is eaten, your cat will again show a different personality, this time a lot more mellow. These behaviors can include overt signs of affection, relaxation, and happiness. What Is Catnip? Cats are unique in their response to catnip, and the response can be very dramatic in some cats. Let the catnip steep in the water for 5 minutes. There are things to be mindful of, though. This is not always for the better. Is Catnip Bad For Cats? Any cats outside can always get some on their own, it grows everywhere. The active ingredient nepetalactone, is an essential oil which alters the behaviour of domestic and other cat species. Yes, catnip is safe for cats. However, you should avoid giving your canine any catnip toys made for cats. What happens when my cat has catnip? It’s possible that more cats respond to catnip than previously thought. Catnip is a plant which can be found in many gardens. For more chances to imbibe with your cat, try valerian or licorice root. Catnip is one of the approximate 250 species in the mint family and has a leafy green appearance. The catnip herb contains an ingredient that many cats react to. So don’t be sad if it turns out your cat is immune to catnip; she just didn’t get the genes for it. Cats are unique in their response to catnip, as cats have a special receptor for the catnip active ingredient, called Nepetalactone. 0 0. hudsongray. Ingredients 1 tbs dried organic catnip; 8 ounces hot water (not boiling!) Some Cats Don't Care About Catnip . In any case, for all of the (sometimes entertaining) behaviors seen, catnip is completely nontoxic to cats. The behavioral response can be very dramatic in some cats - rolling, licking, rubbing, drooling, jumping, running. Some catnip is organic, some is marketed as a premium variety, and some is just…catnip. Approximately one out of two cats develops sensitivity to the plant, and the effects will not show until they reach 3 to 6 months in age. Do... Upload a cat selfie with an Easyology product using #easyologypets tag to entered to win!See Details. While being able to rub against something containing the plant targets feline "happy" receptors in the brain, chowing down on catnip can alternatively mellow your cat out, according to the organization. Is catnip bad for dogs? Generally, you will be able to see a strong reaction after your cat smells it, but it also produces visible results when ingested. If your cat doesn't seem very impressed by the catnip-filled toys you bought her, though, there's definitely no need to worry. Catnip poisoning in cats is caused by an ingested overdose of the week-like herb. It’s found to be neither toxic nor addictive, so you can freely use it as a reward or training aid. Is Catnip Bad for Cats? Catnip Tea for Cats. After that, it will take a couple of hours before your fur ball responds to it again. Valerian has the same effect as catnip - both tend to excite cats while having a relaxing effect on their human counterparts. Although catnip is considered safe for cats it is important that you do not overfeed your cat catnip. Place in a cup or in several saucers for many cats. Also, if your fur baby is under 6 months old, she probably hasn't matured enough to have a response. What happens when my cat has catnip? Yes, the agile and scary lions, tigers, and leopards turn into adorable giant kitties after getting acquainted with the plant. Catnip is a perennial herb, which means it grows through more than one growing season, and it contains an ingredient called nepetalactone. I’ve read a bit of stuff that suggests it may also have something to do with where the catnip was grown, so I might have to experiment with a new supplier. In moderation, catnip appears safe to use on a dog’s skin or internally. (“No, Kitty, that's a bad kitty!”) Cats love the smell of catnip, but is it OK for them to eat it? (In case you're wondering, humans can't get high off of catnip the way their feline friends can, though apparently, you might be able to benefit from some of its health effects, as "catnip is commonly recommended by herbalists to lessen migraine headaches and to relieve cramps, gas, indigestion, insomnia," among other wellness issues, according to Scientific American. There is an oil in the plant that catnip originates from that cats are extremely susceptible to. 1 decade ago. While catnip seems to give cats more energy, used in low dosages it has the opposite effect on humans. DIY Catnip Fish You can put a nip smile on your kitties face by making them their own catnip toy containing real catnip, I’ve made them for my cats and for the cats of my friends and I can say honestly that the receiving cats love their catnip fish. Remove the catnip and add the milk. That said, I’ve researched enough about catnip and the possible effects it might have on your cat; What is catnip? "Be mindful of overindulgence though — cats are unlikely to overdose on catnip, but they can get sick if they eat too much," suggests The Human Society. For conscientious cat guardians, it’s important to find the right catnip that’s healthy for your cat. Many cats simply don't have the receptors to be affected by catnip. Depending on your cat’s personal reaction to catnip, you may choose to control the amount of the plant available to your pet, limiting your cat’s exposure or denying access to it altogether. Apparently, catnip produces a similar reaction to dabbling with LSD or marijuana (although let’s assume that no cats were actually subjected to such drugs in the name of catnip research). For cats that sniff catnip and rub against the plants, they’ll get more of the stimulating effects,” Rotman said. This will be particularly prevalent in unneutered males. Design by Metizsoft.com. A traditional remedy that's not bad to try as we head into cold and flu season. Place the catnip into a tea strainer or tea ball. Catnip sprays allow you to spray your cat’s favorite toys to achieve a similar effect, which is a good alternative if your cat gets a sensitive tummy after trying to eat catnip,” says Dr. Sanchez. One thing that is important to note about using catnip for kittens is that some may attempt to eat it in addition to just sniffing it or playing with it inside of a pet toy. First of all, you might be wondering what catnip even is. If there is a cliche which says that “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend,” then for cats, it should very well be “Catnips are a cat’s best friend.” Indeed, cats go crazy about it. Pheromones are powerful and drastically affect the behaviour of living organisms. Catnip … Is Catnip Bad For Cats – Is It Healthy For Pets Read More » Current research tells us that, in most cases, catnip is very safe for cats (two exceptions being either pregnant cats or seizure-prone cats). This oil contains a chemical called nepetalactone, which apparently mimics the happy pheromones in felines. Catnip is non-toxic to cats. It's a plant from the mint family, according to The Humane Society, and its dried form can be found in a number of cat toys and treats. Some cats appear to grow aggressive when offered catnip. The only danger of your cat eating too much catnip is that they might get an upset stomach. Lv 7. 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. Is it bad to give your cat catnip every day? Some cats can be exceptions to this rule, as they will slowly increase their sensitivity over the years. A member of the mint family, catnip is a weedy plant that has been long associated with felines, as you might have guessed from its name alone. Don’t even be thinking it’s like LSD or anything like that! In other cats, you may notice hyperactivity and aggression, but do know that it’s mostly caused by the desire to protect their newfound treasure from others out to steal the “drugs.” Check out how cats react to the Easyology Cat Pizza Toy. But the cats that luckily do are in fact reacting to the active compound found in catnip’s essential oils called Nepetalactone, a naturally occurring active compound you can read more about here . But I knew that cats usually love the stuff, so I decided to give it a try. Catnip is considered nontoxic to cats, but on occasion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness and trouble walking if your kitty is exposed to too much of it, says Dr. Sanchez. Being affected by catnip is apparently an inherited trait. What changes did you see? In fact, up to one-third of cats have no response to catnip at all. Aggression. But the cats that luckily do are in fact reacting to the active compound found in catnip’s essential oils called Nepetalactone, a naturally occurring active compound you can read more about here . Catnip won't hurt cats.....they love it, and it'll make them very playful for awhile, then they'll sleep like babies! Catnip is harmless for your cat and can actually be beneficial. Many people remember a South Park episode where Cartman's Kitty throws a wild party and the catnip is treated like cocaine by all the hard partying cats. Cats do not usually rip open toys and are too small to eat bells and other noise makers. Current research tells us that, in most cases, catnip is very safe for cats (two exceptions being either pregnant cats or seizure-prone cats). Catnip is non-toxic to cats. © 2020 Easyology Pets. Overview Information Catnip is a plant. 1 tbs milk (some cats may want more) Directions. In some cats, catnip is found to be a depressant rather than a stimulant. Although catnip is considered safe for cats it is important that you do not overfeed your cat catnip. The flowering tops are used to make medicine. Although nepetalactone is not a true toxic element, a large quantity of fresh catnip can make the cat sick and display symptoms that mimic a reaction to poisoning. Take the following steps to help bring your fur baby back home to safety. The active ingredient in catnip, nepetalactone, is the element for which felines are drawn to catnip … In my experience, catnip is the strongest when the flower buds first appear – cats tend to be crazy about the buds and leaves, which is where you’ll find the strongest concentration of volatile oil. Yes, although most female cats don’t really care for it. The seeds and stems are less potent and thus are something of a “filler” product in lower-quality catnip. They have to be near sexual maturity for it to have effects. The catch is that catnip has the complete opposite effect on dogs as it does on cats. Catnip can change a cat’s behavior. A strain that makes one person feel relaxed can make another feel restless, on-edge, and paranoid. If you are a cat owner, then you might have seen how this herb can bring out strange but hilarious side of your cat’s personality. Kittens may not react and only develop the full behavioural change at an older age. Loose, dried catnip is also available for purchase in jars, bags and cans. The herb is a member of the mint family and can even be grown in your own backyard. Despite its crazy effects on felines, catnip seems to be relatively harmless. Many cats simply don't have the receptors to be affected by catnip. My cat doesn't seem to be responding to catnip. We take great pride in offering a wide selection of stylish and affordable pet products for the everyday pet lover. This is because catnip acts as a sedative when ingested, so your cat may look tired and sleepy. My cat doesn't seem to be responding to catnip. Catnip poisoning in cats is caused by an ingested overdose of the week-like herb. Also, 10 percent to 30 percent of the cat population does not respond to catnip at all, at any age. As per The Humane Society, giving your cat catnip that they can smell, as opposed to the kind they can actually eat, can make them respond very differently. As we have discussed, catnip is largely considered a source of feline pleasure. "Trust your kitty to know … In a recent study, researchers hypothesized that the cats who were exposed to catnip and simply reclined or maintained a sphinx-like position may have actually been in a hallucinogenic state. Catnip is a plant which can be found in many gardens. Because catnip triggers an attractant pheromone in cats, they can’t help but react in a strong way. It’s also important to understand that not all cats respond to catnip. We provide products that not only make your home a sanctuary for pet lovers to forge a stronger bond with their pets, we help your pets be as healthy as possible. Yes, that’s right; catnip is safe for humans and indeed has many positive effects when used properly. Overview Information Catnip is a plant. It is this naturally occurring chemical that kittens and cats react to by becoming more active, purring, and rolling, or even licking and drooling — some may eat the catnip as well. Besides the fact that many cat owners are familiar with catnip, only a few of them clearly understand what this does to their pets and whether they should or shouldn’t give catnip to cats. catnip is like weed, without the harsh side effects. Nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip, can turn even the laziest couch potato into a crazy furball—if said furball happens to have inherited the sensitivity to its effects.The trait doesn't emerge until a cat is between three and six months old; until then, a kitten will not have a response. But if you would like to experiment with it, just make sure to pay attentive to how your feline friend is acting during and after a catnip session. No, catnip is nontoxic to cats. If exposed to too much, however, your cat may experience vomiting or diarrhea, but this is a rare occurrence. Ingesting catnip has no effect on a cat, it’s the nepetalactone vapour that the catnip gives off, that your cat reacts to. Why Do Cats Like Catnip? “Cat parents can purchase cat toys with dried catnip stuffed into their hollowed cores. It can be a very healthy part of any cat’s diet, as it’s simply a green that provides nutrients your cat could benefit from. Unlike “natural” products, any product labeled as “organic” is held to a specific set of rules. There are a lot of plants that will make cats sick, and people sometimes get the "toxic" ones without knowing any better. The smell of the catnip, or the plant, causes cats to behave in a certain manner. It's good for them, they like it and they like the reactions they get off it. Other than that, there is zero reason to worry if catnip is bad for cats. All the aforementioned catnip effects on cats only last a couple of minutes, ranging between 10 and 20 minutes. While most cats enjoy the herb dried or fresh, they're usually less interested in catnip sprays, which generally don't contain enough nepetalactone to appeal to most felines. Nepetalactone is a mild hallucinogen, but not addictive or harmful for cats. My cat doesn't seem to be responding to catnip. Some cats do have a sensitive system which may result in their vomiting or diarrhea. Catnip is good for many things other than sending cats loopy – it’s widely used by humans, but does not produce the same effects as it does in cats. While it’s currently most popular as a comfort food and as cat toy stuffing, documented experiments show that bigger wild cats react similarly to catnip. Besides the fact that many cat owners are familiar with catnip, only a few of them clearly understand what this does to their pets and whether they should or shouldn’t give catnip to cats. The active ingredient in catnip, nepetalactone, is the element for which felines are drawn to catnip and the cause of the toxic-like reaction. You may have success in treating insomnia or other sleep disorders with catnip for this reason. The response to catnip is believed to be inherited – the Australian domestic cat population was bred from a small number of cats who were not sensitive to catnip, so their offspring did not inherit a love of the good stuff. It’s also called catmint, catsup, catwort, nip, new and field balm, and most of these names come from the plant’s obvious attraction to cats. Since it’s fairly easy to grow, you can save some money by planting catnip in a pot by your windowsill or garden. Other cats appear to become very sedate after exposure. However, what exactly is in catnip that makes it so irresistible to our prickly furry buddies, and is it really safe for frequent use? This is because catnip toys that are designed for cats are usually not suitable for dogs. NO it is not bad for your cat. Catnip has been proven to be safe for cats, although excessive amounts may result to a short spell of diarrhea. How much catnip do I give my cat? Quick answer: Yes, catnip is safe for dogs and is not toxic to dogs. There’s absolutely no ingredient in catnip that can harm your cat. About 30% of cats have no observable response to catnip. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb of the mint family.Nepetalactone is an essential oil (and the main ingredient in the plant that is attractive to cats). Make sure to keep all unused herbs fresh by putting them in zip lock bags and storing in the refrigerator until later use. TIP: For a more in depth examination of the topic of cats and catnip, please take a look at this informative article. But is catnip bad for cats? As mentioned above, up to 30 percent of the cat population does not respond at all to catnip. Catnip can be used in veterinary clinics, shelters, and foster homes in addition to a cat's own home to help lower stress levels. 1 tbs milk (some cats may want more) Directions. That said, I’ve researched enough about catnip and the possible effects it might have on your cat; What is catnip? Catnip is a natural muscle relaxer and sedative. Partaking of the plant — either by smelling it or by actually eating it straight — can lead to a variety of behaviors, from aggression, to rolling around, and even growling. The worst that may happen with the excessive intake is loose stools or diarrhea. It’s found to be neither toxic nor addictive, so you can freely use it as a reward or training aid. Catnip is not bad for cats, but what if your cat is more likely to ingest catnip? The Chia Pet that your friend had, probably had a different kind of plant in it. Five minutes, ranging between 10 and 20 minutes eating a small amount of catnip has numerous benefits!, this time a lot more mellow species in the mint family and can be! Cat toys altogether licking, rubbing, drooling, jumping, running,! Of motion sickness in lower-quality catnip cup or in several saucers for many cats simply n't! Depressant rather than a stimulant so I decided to give cats more energy used. Type of catnip makes them go loco some cases, it will take a of. 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