With its small flowers and delicate soft green leaves, catnip is a fairly unassuming garden plant. But when it comes to our feline friends, there is something pretty special about catnip.
Sarah Elliott, Central Veterinary Officer from the charity Cats Protection, explains why cats go wild for this aromatic herb.
What is catnip?
Catnip – or to give it the official name, Nepeta cataria – is a member of the mint family and is sometimes referred to as catmint. Native to Europe, Asia and Africa, it makes for a pretty addition to UK gardens where it is enjoyed by gardeners and wildlife, as well as cats.
What does catnip do to cats?
If you’ve ever witnessed it, you’ll know there’s nothing quite like watching a cat enjoy a ‘catnip frenzy’. Just a few sniffs and they may become exceptionally blissed-out - rolling around on the floor excitedly, vigorously rubbing their head and even drooling.
The phenomenon was first discovered in the 1700s, but it’s only recently that scientists have been able to explain why cats react so excitedly to this humble herb.
Why do cats go crazy for catnip?
Catnip contains a chemical compound called nepetalactone, which enters a cat’s nasal tissue when sniffed. This then binds to protein receptors, stimulating sensory neurons and sending a signal to the brain.
These signals travel to parts of the brain called the amygdala – which controls emotional response – and the hypothalamus – responsible for behavioural responses - and together they create a reaction similar to the one caused by cat’s sex pheromones.
The effect lasts around 10 minutes before wearing off and cats tend not to be receptive to catnip again for the next hour or so.
Do all cats love catnip?
No – in fact, catnip has no effect at all on some cats. This is because response to catnip is a trait which must be inherited from one or both their parents. It’s estimated that only around 70-80% of cats are susceptible to catnip’s charms.
If you’re not sure, try your cat with a catnip toy, widely available at pet shops. Or if you’re feeling creative, you can have great fun making your own by purchasing a bag of dried catnip. For a no-sew option, try filling old socks with a couple of tablespoons of catnip and then secure with a knot.
Can I grow catnip in my garden?
Yes! Catnip is available to buy as young plants from garden centres, or you can try growing from seed. It’s also easy to grow from cuttings, so once you’ve got one plant you can grow more for free.
What’s even better is that catnip is loved by bees and other pollinators, so you’ll be helping wildlife as well as keeping your cat happy.
Some owners report their cat’s over-enthusiastic response can result in young plants being trampled before they get established. If this happens, try placing an empty, upturned hanging basket over the plant while it’s getting started, or grow in pots out of your cat’s reach until they’re large enough to withstand your cat’s attention.
Find out more feline facts
For more information about cat behaviour, visit Cats Protection, and check out our expert guides to a range of questions about cats, including how long do cats live?, how to stop cats scratching furniture and how to teach a cat tricks.