Why do cats like catnip so much

The trait doesn't emerge until a cat is between three and six months old; until then, a kitten will not have a response. Catnip sensitivity is hereditary—an estimated 50 percent of cats have no reaction. The most intense catnip experience starts with the nose—one whiff of the stuff and your cat promptly goes nuts.

Researchers suspect that catnip targets feline "happy" receptors in the brain. When eaten, however, catnip tends to have the opposite effect and your cat mellows out. Most cats react to catnip by rolling, flipping, rubbing, and eventually zoning out.

They may meow or growl at the same time. Other cats become hyperactive or downright aggressive, especially if you approach them. Usually these sessions last about 10 minutes, after which your cat loses interest.

This information is sent to the amygdala that controls emotions, and the hypothalamus that regulates body functions. We think that nepetalactone from catnip acts like a pheromone to cats, which is why their behaviour is similar to a female cat during heat! The effects vary from cat to cat, but in general they will show a lot of interest in the catnip, licking and rubbing against it. Some may be more relaxed, acting more calm and laid back. Others can enter a hyperactive stage where they run, jump and roll around, meow loudly, drool, growl or even become a little aggressive.

It may be best to avoid giving catnip to these cats. Any behavioural changes are short-lived, lasting only 10 minutes or so before they return to normal. As far as we know, there is no danger of overdosing a cat on catnip, and cats do not become addicted either. They can start to get used to it, however, and the response may reduce if used too frequently.

To respond to catnip, a cat must carry certain genes and have them turned on. And because the genes are hereditary, any kittens your cat has may not respond to catnip either. We also know that young kittens and much older cats do not respond to catnip as well, or at all. However, if you still are looking for something to mellow out your cat, many cats that do not respond to catnip do respond to other plants.

There are hundreds of catnip-based products out there, all readily available from pet shops, supermarkets or online. If you just want to give them a treat now and then perhaps a nice Christmas present? However, we think a better use for catnip is as a training aid. Cats will associate objects with catnip if you sprinkle some around. This could encourage the use of scratching posts, litter trays, bedding, toys or cat carriers. Do it a few times and your cat will hopefully use them happily!

It can also be useful if you have a particularly nervous cat. If you grow it, you may find your kitty indulging in it at intervals throughout the day and maybe even chewing on it. However, if your kitty eats a lot of it, it can make him sick, so if you see vomiting , then you'll want to relocate the catnip to a spot that's out of reach; then contact us for an appointment. Also note that if you buy a catnip- stuffed toy, it can lose its potency after a few weeks. As you can see, catnip is a fun and harmless way to keep your cats entertained.

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