How to Use Catnip; Is It Good For Cats

Catnip is a fascinating and widely known herb that has intrigued pet owners and herbal enthusiasts for generations. Its scientific name, Nepeta cataria, is a member of the mint family, and it is native to Europe and Asia but has since become naturalized in North America. In this article, we will examine how to use catnip and answer the question: ‘Catnip: Is it good for cats?’.

Its effects on cats are legendary, but there is much more to this versatile herb. In this article, we’ll explore what it is, when to use it, how to use it, where to buy it, why it’s beneficial, and its broader applications.

Related Articles

• Why Would My Cat Bite Me? Understanding Why Cats Bite Their Owners
• Why Cats Hiss At Each Other & Slap Each Other?

What is Catnip?

It is a herbaceous plant known for its aromatic leaves and, more notably, its potent effect on cats.

The active compound in it is nepetalactone, which binds to receptors in a cat’s nasal tissue, leading to a range of reactions that can include euphoria, hyperactivity, and relaxation.

However, it isn’t just for feline friends; it has a long history of use in human herbal medicine as well.

When to Use Catnip

1. For Cats: This herb is a go-to for pet owners looking to entertain their feline companions. It can be used in various situations, such as:
   • Playtime: Sprinkle a little bit on toys, scratch posts, or bedding to encourage playful behavior.
   • Stress Relief: It can help alleviate anxiety or stress in cats, making it useful for trips to the vet or during a change in the home environment.
   • Training: Use it as a positive reinforcement tool to encourage desired behaviors.
2. For Humans: It is also safe and beneficial for humans. It can be used:
   • Tea: This tea is a popular choice for relaxation, alleviating stress, and promoting sleep.
   • Topical Use: Catnip-infused oils or creams can soothe muscle aches and skin irritations.

How to Use Catnip

For Cats

• Dried Catnip: This is the most common form of catnip. You can sprinkle it on various surfaces and toys.
• Catnip Toys: These toys are filled with the herb and can be used for play and exercise.
• Catnip Spray: Spray it onto objects, scratching posts, or toys to enhance their appeal.
• Fresh Catnip: If you have access to the fresh herb, you can crush the leaves and offer them to your cat.
• Catnip Mat: Some pet stores sell mats filled with this herb, providing a soft surface for your cat to relax on.

For Humans

• Catnip Tea: To make it as tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried catnip leaves in hot water for about 10-15 minutes.
• Topical Use: You can make catnip-infused oils or salves by infusing dried catnip in a carrier oil (like olive or coconut oil) for several weeks.
• Aromatherapy: Catnip essential oil can be used in diffusers for its calming and soothing effects.

Where to Buy Catnip

For Cats

1. Pet Stores: Most pet stores carry a variety of catnip products, including dried catnip, catnip toys, and catnip sprays.
2. Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon and Chewy offer a wide selection of catnip products.
3. Grow Your Own: You can also grow this herb in your garden or in a pot if you have a green thumb.

For Humans

1. Health Food Stores: Some health food stores carry it for tea and herbal remedy purposes.
2. Online Herbal Retailers: Websites like Mountain Rose Herbs and Starwest Botanicals sell the dried version for human use.
3. Homegrown: If you have the space and inclination, you can grow it on your own for personal use.

---

Shop For Catnip

• Catnip Toys
• Dried Catnip
• Catnip Essential Oils for Cats

---

Is Catnip Safe?

Catnip is a safe and non-addictive herb for cats, so there are no concerns about dependence or withdrawal.

Why Use Catnip?

For Cats

1. Mental Stimulation: It provides mental and physical stimulation, keeping cats entertained and active.
2. Stress Reduction: It can help reduce stress and anxiety, making it useful for cats that struggle with changes in their environment.
3. Training Aid: The herb can be used as a positive reinforcement tool for training and encouraging desired behaviors.d.

For Humans

1. Relaxation: Catnip has mild sedative properties, making it ideal for relaxation and stress relief in humans.
2. Digestive Aid: Catnip tea can be used to soothe digestive issues like indigestion and gas.
3. Anti-Inflammatory: Topical catnip preparations can help reduce inflammation and soothe sore muscles.

What is Catnip For?

Catnip serves multiple purposes, both for our feline friends and for humans.

1. Cat Entertainment: It is primarily used to entertain cats and provide them with mental stimulation.
2. Cat Stress Relief: It can also be employed to alleviate stress and anxiety in cats, especially during stressful situations like vet visits or moving.
3. Training Aid: It can be a valuable training tool to reinforce positive behaviors in cats.
4. Human Relaxation: For humans, it is a natural remedy to promote relaxation and alleviate stress.
5. Digestive Support: Catnip tea can aid in digestive comfort, easing common issues like indigestion.
6. Topical Benefits: Catnip-infused oils and salves can be applied topically to soothe muscle aches and skin irritations.

Is Catnip A Drug?

Catnip is not a drug in the conventional sense, but it is a natural herb that can have a profound and temporary effect on some cats. It contains a compound called nepetalactone, which can interact with the sensory receptors in a cat’s nasal tissue, leading to various behaviors and reactions. These reactions may include:

1. Euphoria: Some cats become more playful, energetic, and excited when exposed to the herb. They may engage in activities like rolling, pouncing, and chasing.
2. Relaxation: On the other hand, this herb can have a calming effect on other cats, causing them to become more mellow and content.
3. Arousal: In some cases, cats may exhibit behaviors associated with mating, such as rolling, purring, and kneading.

It’s essential to note that the effects of catnip are generally temporary and harmless. The reactions typically last for about 10 to 15 minutes, after which the cat’s interest in it wanes. Furthermore, not all cats are affected by catnip. It’s estimated that about 50-70% of cats are sensitive to the herb, while others may not react to it at all.

Catnip is not addictive or harmful to cats. It’s more like an environmental enrichment tool that can provide mental stimulation and entertainment for cats.

However, because some cats can become very enthusiastic when exposed to this herb, it’s a good idea for pet owners to observe their cat’s behavior to ensure they don’t overindulge in play, which can lead to exhaustion or overstimulation.

In summary, it is not a drug but a natural herb that affects some cats in various ways, providing entertainment and enrichment for those who are sensitive to it.

Final Thought

Catnip is a versatile herb with a wide range of uses, from entertaining our feline friends to promoting relaxation and well-being in humans.

Its natural and non-addictive properties make it a popular choice for those seeking herbal remedies for various purposes.

Whether you have a playful cat in need of some stimulation or you’re looking for a natural way to unwind after a long day, this herb might be the solution you’re searching for.

Consider giving it a try and discover the benefits it can bring to your life and the lives of your beloved pets.