All About Catnip You Ever Wanted To Know

What is Catnip

There are many names for Catnip. Catnip, catmint, catwort, field balm. The felines, including lions tigers, panthers and including your furry cat can't seem to get enough of this fragrant herb.

Catnip is originally from Europe and Asia with scientific name Nepeta cataria. The latin word cataria means “of cat”. It is a minty, lemony, potent catnip -- has long been associated with cats. Why cats, bog or small, love this weedy smell is still a mystery. Is it safe? Are there some cats which don’t like it or don’t bother about it?  

Effects of Catnip

It takes the age of your kitten to be atleast 3 to 6 months before knowing if it is sensitive to catnip. Cats are genetically coded to like this minty smell of basil and oregano family herb. It is observed that 50% inherits this sensitivity. Once your kitten is about 6 months, you could try a whiff or Catnip and see if it likes the heady smell.

There is a chemical oil Nepetalactone in Catnip weed that the cat is attracted to. Even the leaves, stems and seeds emanate this smell. Just a few whiffs and you will see if your cat is transformed to a crazy display that is adorable to see. Some of them engage in licking, rolling all over, chewing and in general very hyperactive. Its pure bliss. 

The cat goes through this strong display for about 5 to 10mins. Its not usually long-term. Some cats, display its reaction in aggressive playing and running from one end to another. Do not get disappointed if you make them smell in 15mins. It takes about couple of hours before the furry friend goes bonkers and responds to catnip. 

Is it Safe?

Catnip is absolutely safe for the felines. Unless, it decides to eat the twigs or some of the leaves. There is no harm that is done to the cats. If the cat eats a significant amount, it might lead to mild tummy upset. Else its perfect fine to train them with catnip.

Using Catnip to Train

Catnip can be used to train the cats. It’s a powerful training tool if you figure out how to use it. The key aspect is that the cats respond to catnip again and again. They never seem to be bored of it. Some cats are known to be bored of a specific meal. But not catnip. 

Indoor cats can be demanding for urban cat parents. If you want an expected behaviour, you can use this magical herb to incentivise with right behaviour. If you cat is scratching your expensive leather furniture or if the kitty is is to trained on his new sleeping bed. You can sprinkle a few grains and they are on to your expected behaviour. 

Usually, it is preferred to use dried or fresh catnip herb as opposed to sprays. They seem to react well to natural herb than the oil sprays. Another factor to remember is that these herb [dry or fresh] is stored well. You will see that the effect is waning after a few days. Store it in a freezer or airtight container.