What Is Catnip? A Complete Guide to the Fascinating Herb Cats Can’t Resist

What Is Catnip?

Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb from the mint family (Lamiaceae), native to Europe and Asia but now widespread around the world. With jagged green leaves and delicate white or purple flowers, it may resemble lemon balm or peppermint. However, catnip contains a unique compound—nepetalactone—that sets it apart.

Nepetalactone is stored in microscopic glands on the plant’s leaves, stems, and seed pods. When released (by crushing, chewing, or brushing), it turns many cats into purring, rolling, playful goofballs.

Why Do Cats Love Catnip?

How Catnip Affects a Cat's Brain

When cats inhale nepetalactone, it binds to receptors in the nasal tissue. These receptors trigger neurons that stimulate areas of the brain involved in emotion and behavior, especially the amygdala and hypothalamus.

The result? Behaviors that mimic those seen in mating season: rubbing, rolling, vocalizing, and energetic play. The effects are temporary—usually lasting 5 to 15 minutes—after which the cat enters a "reset" phase of about 1–2 hours before they can respond again.

Do All Cats React to Catnip?

Not all cats are sensitive to catnip. Around 67–80% of cats are genetically predisposed to respond. Kittens typically don’t react until around 6 months old, when they reach sexual maturity.

Interestingly, large wild cats like lions, leopards, and jaguars can also show similar behaviors when exposed to catnip.

Is Catnip Safe for Cats?

Yes! Catnip is non-addictive and safe in small amounts. While cats may eat it, the strongest reaction comes from sniffing it. If ingested in large quantities, it may cause mild stomach upset, but not toxicity.

Catnip has mild sedative properties when consumed, and stimulating effects when smelled. It can encourage exercise, reduce stress, and even help in training behaviors like using scratching posts or settling into new beds.

Different Forms of Catnip

• Dried Catnip: Sold in pet stores and online. Best quality contains mostly flower buds and leaves.
• Catnip Toys: Toys stuffed with dried catnip—great for batting, licking, and play.
• Catnip Spray: Easier to apply to toys, beds, or scratchers without making a mess.
• Fresh Catnip: You can grow it at home! Cats enjoy it fresh or dried.
• Freeze-Stored Catnip: Keeps potency longer—store in airtight containers in the freezer.

How to Give Catnip to Your Cat

Start small. Offer:

• 1 tsp of dried catnip sprinkled on a mat or toy.
• Gently crush the leaves to release more aroma.
• Avoid leaving catnip out constantly—overexposure can dull the response.
• Clean up leftover catnip to keep reactions consistent next time.

Alternatives to Catnip (If Your Cat Doesn’t React)

1. Silvervine (Actinidia polygama)

A powerful alternative, silvervine affects up to 80% of cats—many of which are non-responsive to catnip. The active compound is actinidine, and its effects can last 20–30 minutes. Often sold as powder, sticks, or fruit galls.

2. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Stimulates about 47% of cats. Its strong earthy scent may not be appealing to humans, but it can promote playful behavior in cats, followed by calm.

3. Tatarian Honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica)

Its wood contains nepetalactone-like compounds and may appeal to cats of all ages. Often used in chunks or shavings.

4. Other Catmints (Nepeta species)

Some other catmint cultivars (e.g., Nepeta faassenii, Nepeta ‘Blue Wonder’) may produce a weaker but still noticeable effect.

Can Catnip Be Used for Training?

Absolutely. Use catnip to:

• Encourage scratching on new posts
• Attract a cat to a new bed or hideout
• Help reduce stress during vet visits or travel
• Stimulate play in overweight or sedentary cats

Final Thoughts: Catnip Remains a Feline Mystery

While scientists understand how catnip interacts with feline brains, the deeper "why" remains unknown. Why do cats have receptors for a plant that evolved on another continent? It’s just one more reason cats remain endlessly fascinating.

Whether your feline friend flips out with joy or shows no interest at all, catnip is a safe, fun, and enriching way to connect with your pet.