Most cat owners have heard playful jokes about catnip making cats feel “groovy” or “high” due to its psychedelic properties. So, why does catnip affect cats and what does catnip do to cats? Let's find out! 

What is Catnip?

What is catnip and what does catnip do to cats to change their mood? Catnip is a plant that belongs to the mint family. It contains a compound called nepetalactone (officially called Nepeta cataria), which can change your cat’s behaviour. Many cat toys and treats include catnip to entice your pet to play! 

The Science Behind Catnip

Catnip effects usually include a temporary state of euphoria, however, it depends on how your cat reacts to it. Mood changes occur when the active ingredient called nepetalactone enters the nasal passage. When nepetalactone is detected by your cat’s olfactory system, it triggers a behavioural response. Scientists believe this process helps cats release “happy hormones” within the brain, which is why catnip affects cats. 

These hormones result in cats rolling across, flipping on and rubbing against the carpet. Cats generally feel very mellow after eating catnip, however, some cats don't enjoy the effects of catnip and it can cause them to salivate and feel odd - so always use caution.

Catnip Effects on Cats

Cats experience behavioural, physiological, and neurological reactions to catnip. Every cat’s reaction is different but they usually appear more energetic and playful or become more mellow and chilled out. These factors depend on ingestion, as ingesting catnip usually mellows cats out more. 

Now for the most fun part! What catnip effects can owners expect after giving their pet some as a treat? It is important to note that catnip effects on cats may vary, however here are some of the most common ones to watch out for

  • Rolling across the carpet.
  • Rubbing their body across the carpet.
  • Looking “zonked out” or more mellow.
  • Highly energetic and playful.
  • Increased affection.
  • Increased vocalisation.

Is it OK to Give Cats Catnip?

Catnip is non-toxic, non-addictive and generally safe for all cats in moderation! However, catnip should still be used with care, especially if you are giving it to a young kitten for the first time. Catnip generally doesn’t affect kittens until they are 1 year old however it won’t cause them any harm in small quantities. 

For adult cats, we suggest no more than 2-3 catnip sessions a week (eating or sniffing it). Start them off with a small pinch of catnip or a handful of catnip treats, gauge their reaction and go from there. You might find catnip makes them a little too mischievous for your liking, so don’t use too much all at once.

Do Cats Enjoy Catnip?

Around 60% of cats react to catnip and the remaining 40% may not react at all. Catnip helps cats release ‘happy hormones' which is why they experience a state of euphoria after ingesting it from eating treats or smelling it, however, the intensity can differ from cat to cat! Catnip effects on cats include increased playfulness or a mellow mood. 

Cat playing with a catnip ball

How to Give Catnip to Cats?

There are various forms of catnip for your pet to enjoy, including dried catnip, catnip toys, catnip treats and catnip sprays. Start with a small pinch of fresh or dried catnip, or one catnip treat and see how they go. It doesn't take much catnip for cats to feel the effects. 

Fresh Catnip: You can grow catnip at home to provide fresh leaves straight from the plant. Trim a few leaves off for your cat to sniff and play with. This is the freshest version of the herb, but it will require plant maintenance, and make sure your cat can't reach it! 

Dried Catnip: Dried catnip is generally more potent. It is easier to use, however, you will need to make sure it is hidden away so your cat cannot rip open the bag when you aren’t looking. Dried catnip can be messy and may cause stomach upset in some cats. 

Catnip Spray: Catnip spray is a great alternative for cats that experience stomach upset from ingesting other types of catnip. It is easy to use, especially on the go and the catnip is secure from greedy paws. 

Catnip Treats: Catnip treats are an extra indulgent way for your cat to enjoy catnip. Our DREAMIES ™ catnip treats combine the irresistible taste of DREAMIES™ with a catnip surprise. Catnip treats are convenient to use during playtime.

Now we have covered all the basics, let's explore our top tips for using catnip safely and responsibly with your pet. 

  • Use in moderation. Catnip can affect cats differently and has mood-altering properties, so always be diligent about how often your pet enjoys it. 
  • There's no hard fast rule for how much catnip is safe to give your cat, but we’d suggest no more than 2-3 catnip sessions a week, using a teaspoon-sized amount if it is dry, or a few leaves if it is fresh. 
  • You should avoid giving catnip to aggressive cats. 
  • Not all cats are interested in catnip! So keep this in mind if your cat doesn't react. 
  • Catnip can help you train your cat, supercharge playtime or help relax them. Sprinkle it in their bed or on new toys so they take interest straight away. 

Catnip is a unique way to engage with your cat and liven up playtime, however, catnip should always be used in moderation and you should discontinue use if your pet is experiencing a bad reaction! If you're curious about catnip and looking for a safe catnip-infused treat we have got you covered with DREAMIES ™ catnip treats.