What is catnip and why do cats Love it so much?

We've all heard about catnip and how for some strange reason cats are meant to go crazy for it, but have you ever wondered what exactly it is and why cats are meant to like it so much?

Well, it is simply a type of herb that's related to mint, but just to confuse us all it's not the same thing as a similar herb that's actually called catmint! The plants latin name is Nepeta Cataria and it looks very much like mint, with grey-green heart shaped leaves with serrated edges. It can grow to about three feet tall and produces small white flowers that are spotted with purple.

What effect does it have and is it safe?

• They might like to rub themselves all over it
• Roll around in it
• Start pawing at it
• Lick it and eat it and get all dribbley
• They start to purr
• They may act rather drunk and become a bit wobbly

Cat owners shouldn't worry about these funny behaviours as it is quite safe and non-toxic, but if your cat does eat too much of it they might suffer from some vomiting or diarrhoea.

On the other hand some cats don't react to it at all, in fact our cat Mo doesn't seem that interested. This may be because the sensitivity to this herb is inherited, passed on in the genes from cat to kitten. The chemical nepetalactone is the thing that triggers these amazing responses seen in many cats. Even big cats such as Tigers can be sensitive to it and that would really be something to see! The short video clip below shows just how much some cats really love this magical scented plant.

How can I buy Catnip for my cat?

Of course you don't have to grow your own herbs. There is an incredible range of cat products and cat toys all ready impregnated with the catnip scent. These might be furry toy mice, bouncy balls, toys to dangle and tease, throw and chase or scratch and chew. You can buy it in spray form, powder or in leaves so you can re-scent your kittys favourite cat toys or use it to encourage your cat to use their scratching post.

You can even buy bubble guns that have the scent in the bubbles for your cat to chase which sounds like a lot of fun! And to reward your feline entertainer there are catnip drops and chews for that extra special treat.

So why not try a few different catnip toys and treats to find out if your cat has the craze for it too. It could help keep them an active, amused and happy cat, and keep you entertained at the same time!

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