Cats love catnip. And it's perfectly safe - there's nothing in it that can harm your cat. If by some chance your cat was to eat a large amount of catnip, it could cause a mild tummy upset, but that's not likely to happen.
What is Catnip?
Catnip is a perennial herb of the mint family. It originated in Northern Africa and the Mediterranean but now commonly grows wild throughout Europe and North America. The plant's nicknames, catnip, catmint or catwort are no doubt inspired by cat's well-known taste for the plants.
Why do cats love it?
The active compound in catnip is nepetalactone. Cats detect this compound by smell. It's generally thought that the nepetalactone mimics the effect of a cat pheromone, possibly associated with mating.
Catnip acts as a natural mood enhancer. It might make your cat act quite unusually; they may become more kittenish or particularly affectionate. Your cat may also roll, paw or rub their face in the source of catnip, or may jump about and become frisky, running from room to room appearing to chase invisible prey.
Some cats will just become very relaxed and stare into space. All of this behaviour may be marked by a lot of mewing or growling. The effects of catnip are short, usually lasting between 5 to 15 minutes. After that it will be a couple of hours before a cat will demonstrate the effects of catnip again.
Why give catnip to my cat?
Because your cat will enjoy being given catnip, it makes a great treat to be used during training or to encourage a cat to use a scratching post or sleep in their own bed. It can also be a good way to encourage your cat to exercise, it may even help your cat relax. Whatever the reason, it's good fun!
Tasty Tips
How should I give catnip to my cat?
Catnip products come in a variety of forms. You can buy powdered catnip or catnip bulbs which you can sprinkle on the ground or on a toy. Some toys come pre-scented with catnip or with catnip inside. You can also get catnip oil or oil spray, which can be used to scent a toy or bedding. Cats will react to even very small amounts of catnip so you don't need to use very much.
My cat doesn't seem to be responding to catnip.
About 30% of cats have no observable response to catnip. Being affected by catnip is apparently an inherited trait. Many cats simply don't have the receptors to be affected by catnip.
Despite their playful nature, kittens don't generally respond to catnip until after their first six months. You may also find that as your cat gets older, they lose interest in catnip.
Catnip seems to make my cat aggressive
Some cats, usually males, will become aggressive when you give them catnip, possibly because of catnip's connection to mating behaviour. If this is the case with your cat, then stop.
You might consider an alternative like honey-suckle or valerian. Talk with your vet, who will be able to tell you if they think catnip is right for your pet or recommend other alternatives.
Related products
Senior Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Senior Cat Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food supports healthy aging during the golden years. Contains a special ingredient blend to help keep older cats agile, more alert & interactive.
Oral Care Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Oral Care Adult Cat Food with Chicken contains clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build up.
Sterilised Mature Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Sterilised Cat Mature Adult Cat Food with Chicken is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. It is a precisely balanced nutrition tailored to meet the needs of mature adult sterilised cats, ages 7+, and to promote graceful ageing.
Urinary Health Adult Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Urinary Health Adult Cat Food with Chicken supports the health of the whole urinary system. Suitable for sterilised cats.
Related articles
Hill's Cat Foods: A Healthy Choice for Your Cat
Selecting the right food for your kitten is a key to quality nutrition and a long, healthy life. Learn more about how to select the right kitten food.
Cats Need Good Nutrition In Order To Stay Healthy
Good nutrition is about the right balance of nutrients. Learn more about health issues when feeding a cat food that has an improper nutritional balance from your friends at Hills Pet Nutrition.
How Often Should You Feed A Cat?
Feeding time can be a wonderful bonding opportunity for you and your cat. Find out how to make the most of it and create a healthy habit with HIll's Pet UK.
Hill's Cat Foods: Nutritional Balance Just for Indoor Cats
Find the right Hill
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.