Do you want to feed your kitty catnip, but are unsure about its safety? Are you concerned that it might have some adverse side effects on your friend? Then, read on to find out these answers and more.
Catnip, also variously referred to as catwort or catmint, is a fragrant herb of the mint family and as we all know, cats are known never to go crazy over this plant.
The lure to catnip is in its volatile oil, which contains a chemical compound known as nepetalactone. And this vaporous oil is found in the seeds, stems, and leaves of this weedy plant.
Does Catnip Have Any Effects On Cats?
Although the exact cause of catnip’s effects on cats is not yet known, it is believed that the genetic makeup of the cat determines whether or not it will be affected or be sensitive to this minty herb.
However, studies posit that one in two cats inherits a sensitivity to catnip. For those felines that have a sensitivity to catnip, only a sniff or two of catnip send them into an intense mood of bliss, which is usually short-lived, lasting about 10 minutes for most cats. While for other cats, catnip makes them calm and relaxed. Also, for those cats that are sensitive to catnip, the euphoric feeling can easily translate to aggressive playfulness, until the effect wears off within minutes.
But, regardless of how your cat reacts to catnip, once the effect wears off, it will take another two hours before your cat can react to catnip again.
What About The Effects Of Catnip On Kittens?
Kittens usually have no sensitivity to catnip until they get to ages 3-6 months. So, if you feed your kitten catnip or even if your kitty sniffs catnip at any age below three months, she will not react to the herb.
Is Catnip Safe For Cats?
The answer to this question is yes. So far, there are no known health issues associated with giving catnips to cats. The euphoria your cat may or may not experience with catnip is a common effect that is safe and short-lived. Once the effect wears off, your kitty temperament returns to normal.
Also, whether your cat is sensitive or not to catnip, it is generally safe for cats. However, you should not feed your cat too much of this herb at once. Because, though rare, there are cases where too much catnip can make your furry pal a bit unwell. But the symptoms usually go away within little time, provided you stop your cat from taking more of the catnip until her condition improves.
Final Thoughts
As already mentioned, catnip is perfectly safe for your cat whether or not she reacts hyper-actively to it. Catnip is not toxic and will not make your cat sick, provided that you do not feed her large amounts at a time.
Also, you can feed your kitten catnip, even before the ages of 3-6 months. But do note that furry friend will not react to it until her sensitivity to catnip develops around 3-6 months.