We've all heard of Catnip, but what actually is it? Well the Latin name for it is Nepeta cataria and it is simply a type of herb which is related to the mint family. However it is important to note that it is not the same plant as Catmint even though the two do have similar physical characteristics. However it is the Catnip plants which produces the strange euphoric reaction in some cats and which is completely safe to give to your cat on a regular basis. In fact after the experience cats show no ill effects at all and are completely back to normal within minutes.
However it is interesting to note that not all cats are affected by the herb. It appears that a cat is either born a catnip addict of not, the sensitivity being inherited from its parents. So where you may have a cat that goes absolutely crazy for Catnip others will show no interest in it at all. Whether you have Catnip crazy cat will not be evident until after the age of three months of age where all kittens are completely indifferent to the herb.
It is easy to spot whether or not you have a catnip sensitive cat or not as the signs can be quite dramatic. Once the cat is introduced to Catnip they will begin by sniffing at it. This sniffing will become more and more frantic until they start to lick and then eat the plant. They will then begin to rub their head and body against the plant and possibly start to foam at the mouth. Rolling around on the ground and emitting loud purrs and growls are also quite common. The cat will look like it is completely out of it and may even display quite uncharacteristic behaviour like leaping around and even becoming aggressive towards other animals. All of this behaviour is quite normal and will vary from cat to cat but one is for certain the cat certainly looks like it is enjoying them selves. The whole experience may last for 10 minutes or so, after which the cat is back to their normal self.
Even big cats like lions and tigers are reported to also react to catnip and both male and female cats react the same way to it. The general consensus is that the experience for the cat is similar to marijuana or LSD, but without all the nasty side effects. Cats will also self regulate themselves as to when they have had enough of the experience, so if you do have Catnip growing in your garden it is unlikely that you will find your cat in a permanent state of ecstasy.
Growing Catnip is quite easy and is normally available from garden centres. It likes to grow in light sandy soils in the full sun. It is worth noting that the Valerian plant also affects some cats in the same way and so this might be another plant worth considering fro your cat friendly garden.
Of course if you are not able to grow your own catnip it is also available in many cat toys or as dried leaves, which you can use to keep your cat amused inside.
More cat health and cat care tips can be found at our site http://www.our-happy-cat.com A feline friendly community full of helpful advice and fun things to do to make sure you have a happy cat and a happy you.
Copyright 2007 Kate Tilmouth
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