What does catnip do to cats?

Updated 18/12/2023

Much like dog zoomies, watching a cat on catnip can be a serious hoot. Wide eyes, bodies outstretched, rolling around in the throes of euphoria - we’re talking viral-worthy reactions here, people! But what is catnip - and why does it elicit such bizarre, brazen behaviors from our feline friends? 

Well, strap yourselves in as we’re about to take a feline science lesson on all things ‘catnip’. Read on to find out what is catnip used for, whether it’s any good for our furry friends, and importantly, what it’s really like to be a kitty high on life (or rather, catnip)...

What is catnip made of?

First things first: what is catnip made out of? Catnip (or ‘nepeta cataria’) is a common perennial herb - a member of the mint family, in fact. It's an easy-to-grow plant that’s native to southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and some parts of China. So, what is in catnip that makes cats go crazy? The main culprit is an active ingredient called nepetalactone - it's what triggers your cat to roll, stretch, lick, and chew to their heart’s content, whenever they come into contact with this funny little herb... 

What is the purpose of catnip?

So, what is catnip for exactly? Other than, you know, delighting furry friends (their pet parents, cat sitters - and pretty much anyone else around them!). Believe it or not, its purpose isn't just to bring hours of fun (although we can’t deny it is amusing to watch a cat enjoying a catnip sesh!). 

While it can certainly be used as a way to help your cat play, have fun, and explore, catnip can also be used as a training aid - for example, sprinkling some dried catnip on your cat's scratching post can encourage them to focus their clawing efforts there (rather than the carpet - or your brand-new sofa).

What is catnip good for?

Catnip is a perfectly safe herb for cats to interact with - and don't worry, while most cats go crazy for the stuff, it's 100% non-addictive. And yes, it can even harness some mental and physical wellbeing benefits for our feline friends. It's a great way to make your cat happy and can also be a great bonding experience for cats and their pet parents. Catnip can give your kitty a good burst of energy, encouraging playtime and exploration. It's also been known to lower stress levels, and can be a great aid in helping to calm your kitty down.

What is catnip like for cats?

Ever wondered what’s going on inside your cat's mind and body, mid-catnip binge? Well, cats respond differently to the effects of catnip, but most will react to catnip by sniffing, licking, or brushing up against the catnip-laden treat in question. Once your cat smells catnip, they may begin to lick, chew or eat the plant - that's because this helps to release the essential oil (and nepetalactone) that triggers the catnip response.

Some cats will take a laid-back approach, stretching, drooling, and relaxing in utter bliss, while others may become vocal, playful, and hyperactive, displaying intense feelings of affection, relaxation, and happiness. A feline vice, catnip can lower a cat's inhibitions, and so some cats may also display signs of aggression. It's also pretty common for cats to take a nap following a catnip 'high' - hey, it’s hard work acting that cute.

Does catnip work for all cats?

Don’t worry - if you find your cat doesn’t respond to catnip, they’re not malfunctioning! Catnip doesn’t work for all cats - according to feline experts, around 50-80% of kitties will respond to catnip. Why? Well, there's a theory that it's down to genetics. If your cat doesn't possess the trait, they simply won't be affected by catnip in the same (hilarious) ways their fellow feline friends will.

How long does catnip work?

The effects of catnip are relatively short-lived - in general, the 'high' cats experience will last anywhere between 5 to 15 minutes, although this can vary per kitty, and depending on the amount of catnip your kitty eats or smells.

Once they've had enough, they'll usually strut off on their own accord, and won't be susceptible to the effects again for at least 30 mins to a couple of hours. 

Can kittens have catnip? 

Yes, catnip is perfectly safe for kittens - that said, very young kittens may not react in the same way as an adult cat, at least until they're a bit older (around six months of age).

Is catnip safe? 

Yes, catnip is perfectly safe, however, too much catnip at one time could cause some tummy trouble (such as vomiting or diarrhea). Usually, cats will refuse catnip before it gets to this stage, but do be mindful of the amount you give your cat and just use a little catnip at a time to avoid any ill effects. Also, don't allow your cat to drink any catnip sprays - while the plant itself is perfectly safe, sprays may contain other ingredients not suitable for cats.

What is catnip for dogs?

Dognip - is it a thing? Well, yes and no. Catnip is perfectly safe for dogs - there's no difference between catnip for cats and catnip for dogs. Though, in our canine pals, it usually has no effect, or a mild sedative effect.

How to use catnip

Catnip comes in many forms, but they all come kitty-approved! Here are the most common ways to treat your kitty to some catnip: 

• Catnip toys 
• Dried catnip (which you can sprinkle on regular toys, a cat tree, or a scratching post)
• Catnip sprays (to be used on your kitty's toys, bedding, or in places you want to encourage your kitty to play) 
• Fresh catnip - grow your own catnip plant for a constant supply (your kitty will thank you). 

Meet our veterinary expert, Corinne

This article has been checked by veterinarian Corinne Wigfall BVMBVS(Hons) BVMedSci(Hons). Corinne is originally from Wales and moved to New Zealand after graduating university. She started her career with a university based equine internship and moved onto mixed and small animal practice. Currently she splits her time between online tele triage and working in an after hours vet clinic.

Your common kitty questions, explained

So, that more or less answers the question ‘what is catnip and why do cats like it?’, then. But if your pursuit of feline facts knows no bounds, then check out the answers to even more common cat questions right here.