Catnip for Cats: What it is, Benefits and How to use it

Today we will talk about a herb that has been the subject of fascination for its ability to stimulate cats: catnip. This plant has been used for centuries as a natural remedy and has gained popularity in popular culture thanks to its effect on cats. But what is catnip and how does it affect our feline friends? Is it safe for them to consume it? What benefits does it have for your health and well-being? In this blog, we'll explore everything you need to know about catnip and how you can use it to improve your cat's life. We'll tell you everything you need to know to become a cat catnip expert!

What is catnip?

Catnip, also known as catnip, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to Europe and Asia, but has become naturalized in many parts of the world. The active substance that produces its effect in cats is called nepetalactone, which is found in the leaves and stem of the plant. When cats inhale the scent of nepetalactone, they may experience a number of behaviors, ranging from euphoria to relaxation. Not all cats react to catnip, and the intensity of the response varies from cat to cat. About 70% of domestic cats are sensitive to catnip, while some cats are simply not affected at all. Although catnip is not addictive or toxic to cats, it is important not to overdo it, as it can cause eye or respiratory tract irritation if inhaled in large amounts.

What is catnip used for?

Catnip is mainly used to stimulate and enrich the life of cats. When cats inhale nepetalactone from catnip, they may experience a range of behaviors, from euphoria to relaxation. Catnip can help improve mood and reduce stress in cats . In addition, catnip can also be used as a training tool for cats, since it can motivate them to play and perform certain activities, such as using the scratching post or interactive toy.

On the other hand, catnip can also have health benefits for cats. For example, the scent of catnip can help stimulate appetite in cats that have lost interest in food, and it can also help cats suffering from anxiety or stress related to separation, travel, or a visit to the vet. In some cases, catnip has also been used as a natural remedy to help relieve symptoms of conditions such as joint pain or indigestion in cats.

Benefits of Catnip in Cats

Catnip has several benefits for cats. Here we share some of them:

Stimulation and enrichment

Catnip can help stimulate and enrich the lives of cats. When cats inhale nepetalactone from catnip, they may experience a range of behaviors, from euphoria to relaxation, which can help improve their mood and reduce stress.

Training

E l catnip can be used as a training tool for cats. You can motivate them to play and do certain activities, such as using the scratching post or interactive toy.

Appetite stimulation

Catnip can help reduce anxiety and stress in cats suffering from these problems related to separation, travel or a visit to the vet.

Reduction of anxiety and stress

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Relief of joint pain and indigestion

In some cases, catnip has been used as a natural remedy to help relieve symptoms of conditions such as joint pain or indigestion in cats.

It is important to remember that not all cats react to catnip, and the intensity of the response varies from cat to cat. Also, while catnip is not addictive or toxic to cats, it is important not to overdo it, as it can cause eye or respiratory tract irritation if inhaled in large amounts.

Nepeta cataria, how to use it in cats?

Nepeta cataria, also known as catnip or catnip, is a herbaceous plant that contains nepetalactone, a substance that acts as a stimulant in cats. It can be used in a variety of ways to stimulate and enrich the lives of cats, such as providing catnip toys, growing catnip plants, or using catnip sprays and oils. However, not all cats react to catnip, and it is important not to exceed its consumption to avoid irritation to the eyes or respiratory tract.

Contraindications of catnip in cats

Although most cats do not experience negative effects from consuming or being exposed to catnip, it is important to be aware of some potential contraindications:

Sensitivity

Some cats may be allergic or sensitive to catnip, which can manifest as skin irritation, red eyes, or sneezing.

Overdose

Although catnip is not toxic to cats, excessive intake can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and in rare cases, respiratory problems.

Side effects in sick cats

It is recommended that catnip be avoided in cats with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or any other medical condition that requires close monitoring of the cat's diet and behavior.

Addiction

Although not common, some cats can develop a psychological dependence on catnip, which can affect their behavior and long-term health.

It is important to be aware of these contraindications and consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns about the use of catnip on your cat.

Other non-toxic plants for cats

There are other plants that produce similar effects in cats, the best known are:

Silvervine, matatabi or cat powder

It is a species of the kiwi family native to Japan and China. Its effects are even more intense than catnip, its effects are longer lasting and they react to it again after 30 minutes.

Valerian root

We can find it in Asia, Europe and America. Valerine is a stimulant for most cats.

CBD

CBD is one of many cannabinoids extracted from the cannabis sativa plant. The cannabis sativa plant can be found in the form of marijuana or hemp. The main difference is their chemical composition. Marijuana is mostly made up of THC, which is the psychoactive and recreational part, unlike hemp, which mostly has CBD, which helps us relax and reduce pain. Waggy's range of products are based on the use of isolated CBD for cats , this means that it is free of THC and other cannabinoids. This helps us to provide greater security to our customers, and in addition to a high quality in our products. We also advise you to find out how many drops of cbd for cats is recommended.

Our favourite:

Conclusion

In conclusion, catnip is an exciting and safe herb for cats that can provide a wide variety of benefits. From stimulation and entertainment to relaxation and calm, catnip can help improve the quality of life for our feline friends. In addition, other non-toxic plants can be considered to further enrich the life of our companion.