Basket
855 908 4010
 
 
 
Account # or Apply for an account Credit Balance: $0

Pet Bucket Blog

Why some cats go crazy for catnip

 by yunus on 07 Sep 2016 |
1 Comment(s)
When it comes to catnip, there are two schools of cats: Those that hyperactively roll in it, lick it, and go “crazy,” and those that couldn’t care less. While this split response seems strange, it all comes down to our individual cats’ genetics, and either reaction is considered normal and safe for our feline friends.
 
Though cats can respond to catnip like a drug, it’s actually an herb belonging to the mint family. Catnip’s curious effects on our cats comes from an oil it contains called nepetalactone, which triggers varied reactions in from cats. While some are happy to just sniff the mind-altering chemical, others will eat, lick or even roll in their catnip. Because the reaction is inherited, however, not all cats respond in any way at all. In fact, up to 50 percent of our feline friends experience no change from catnip and will simply sniff it and walk away. The trait doesn’t emerge until kittens are between three and six months old, and older cats are less likely to respond, too. Large cats such lions, tigers and leopards, however, have been shown to react to catnip in similar ways to our housecats.
 
Researchers suspect that catnip works by triggering feline pheromones, or “happy” receptors, in your cat’s nose or brain. Once he gets a whiff, Kitty may begin rolling, rubbing, drooling or otherwise becoming hyperactive, and can even turn aggressive. Cats who eat catnip, however, seem to have the opposite reaction, becoming more sedated with their herbaceous snack. Whatever his response, your cat’s reaction will only last around 10 minutes before he loses interest in his catnip and will need a break of 30 minutes to several hours before becoming susceptible to its effects again.
 
Catnip isn’t just a feline obsession, however. Humans have used it for centuries as a mild sedative brewed into herbal teas. It has also been used to treat headaches, relieve cramps and insomnia, and reduce swelling associated with arthritis. Nepetalactone acts as a powerful insect repellent, too, fighting mosquitos and other pests.
 
Because it’s not a drug, catnip is non-addictive and safe to give to your cat. Those who are apt to eat it can make themselves sick on rare occasion, though, so be sure to give Kitty his treat in moderation. Catnip can lose its potency over time, so it’s best to store it in an airtight container in the freezer to increase its shelf life— or start your own catnip garden for you and your pet

Comment(s)1

Toni - Comment
Toni08 Sep 2016Reply
I had an indoor outdoor cat who stood up on her back legs and ate the seeds from my catnip plant. She went from a loving wonderful cat to a snarling angry animal. Evedently she was drugged because when I disposed of the plant, her fabulous personality returned.

Join the Conversation

* Please enter your name.
Email address will not be published
Please enter a valid email address.
* Please enter your comment.
Image Verification
'Please enter security code.
Call Us - 855 908 4010

Search blog archives


Latest Updates


Tag Cloud


Blog Archives


Subscribe to RSS

Subscribe to RSS feed

 
 
Shop with Confidence
  • Low Price Guarantee
  • Free & Fast Shipping
  • Best Customer Service