Catnip, also known as catnipis quite popular among feline owners, but many still don’t know exactly how it works.
Therefore, in this post we will answer some frequently asked questions about what catnip is for, how it can be used and what are the benefits of catnip for your feline friend.
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What is Catnip and what is it for?
Catnip, or Nepeta Cataria, is an herbaceous plant in the mint family. The name Nepeta derives from the Italian city of Nepete (known today as Nepi), where the plant was first cultivated.
Catnip is very similar to mint and blooms from late spring until October, with a colorful array of flowers in shades of pink and lilac. In veterinary medicine, catnip is used both to calm the most aggressive felines and to cheer up and exercise the most apathetic ones.
Catnip is effective in around 75% of cats, as puppies and seniors generally do not feel the effect. The herb acts through the cat’s sense of smell, and the smell of the substance can cause sensations such as excitement, hyperactivity and a feeling of happiness.
Furthermore, it can cause changes in behavior, causing the kitten to become more excited, meow and seek more contact with the plant, rolling over it or trying to lick it.
What are the uses of catnip?
Catnip can be used in different ways, such as in cat scratching posts, so that the cat becomes interested and gets used to the object and no longer scratches the sofa or other furniture.
Can be used in toysalready cat walk and even in cases where the cat is reluctant to eat the portionleaving it on top of the food.
Furthermore, many toys and accessories for felines contain catnip to provide fun and reduce stress in cats. There is also the possibility of planting catnip in your backyard and giving the herb directly to your pet.
Effects of catnip
Catnip makes cats happy, helps them release tension, relax and feel good. It can also be used to boost that little felt mouse that has lost its charm or as a complement to puzzles.
After the kitten inhales the smell, you may come across some somewhat unusual and fun attitudes from the kitten. Shake your head as if you were listening to music, jump, scratch more quickly, hunt imaginary animals and become more active These are common effects of the herb.
Benefits of catnip
Catnip is very beneficial for the health and well-being of cats. It is even recommended and used in various treatments in veterinary medicine, being recommended by professionals in the field.
The benefits range from happiness until relaxation. What is noticeable is that felines connect more with space and feel more pleasure in playing, jumping, running and following their hunting instincts.
At what age can my cat consume catnip?
There is no minimum age for introducing catnip into your furry friend’s routine. What is known is that younger cats do not feel the effects of the herb as much, as sensitivity is not as acute in these young cats.
Therefore, it is best to avoid giving catnip to kittens and opt for the herb only when they are transitioning from childhood to adulthood, which happens around one year of the animal’s life.
It is important to know that not every cat is sensitive to the herb: 25% of cats are not sensitive to the effects of the plant even in adulthood.
Can catnip be addictive to cats?
Any object, substance, smell or toy that provides well-being to cats can be addictive, but this does not mean that every addiction is bad for the health of animals.
So far, there is no scientific proof that the herb is harmful to the organism of these furry ones. Therefore, if used in the right way and without exaggeration, catnip can be extremely beneficial for animals’ daily lives.
Can a cat use catnip every day?
The ideal is not to offer catnip to your kitten daily, as he may become resistant to the smell and need larger doses each time, damaging the effects of the plant.
The effects of the herb last approximately 10 minutes, which can be agitation or relaxation — everything will depend on the degree of sensitivity that the pet has with the plant. Therefore, it is common for owners to repeat the dose after some time.
Although there is no contraindication to use, this is a practice that should be avoided, in order to prevent pets from becoming resistant to the effects of the herb.
Can you offer catnip to dogs?
You can even offer the herb to your buddyhowever there is no scientific proof that it has any effect on dogs or any other animal other than cats.
It can be said that catnip is an herb exclusive to kittens, and only they can feel the effects and benefits of this “feline plant”.
Does Catnip have any effects on humans?
Do not worry! As the name suggests, catnip only works on cats. Therefore, the only effect that humans will feel is the joy of having a calmer and less stressed feline.
Can catnip not work on my cat?
Just like people, cats have individual characteristics and preferences. Catnip is more likely to be effective in adult, unneutered male cats, but it is not an absolute rule. Many females, puppies and neutered cats show affection for the plant.
The only way to know is to test it by buying a toy with catnip or using the plant itself.
Is catnip bad?
No. Catnip only has a calming and therapeutic effect, without any toxic effects.. It is a natural and healthy product, so there are no harmful effects on your pet’s health or the possibility of it becoming dependent on catnip.
The only concern that should be taken with catnip is its origin. That’s why it’s always good to choose products from Brazil and without pesticides.
At Tudo de Bicho’s online pet shop, you will find a variety of products and toys with catnip. Do you want to know the options and gift your furry friend? Just click on the banner below and check it all out!
