Catnip

Mags · 23-01-2006, 12:18 PM

Catnip triggers strange behavioral changes in cats when they come in contact with it. The aroma of catnip drives cats crazy sending them into a state of friskiness and excitement.

Cats react to catnip in many peculiar ways: some cats eat or lick it, others roll in it, some play with it and others will simply just sniff it. All of these reactions release an oil called nepetalactone that stimulates chemical responses in cats causing them to become energized and wild.

Not all cats react to catnip. Young kittens and old cats tend to have no reaction to catnip. However, large cats like tigers and leopards could be sensitive to catnip. Catnip is completely safe and non-addictive to cats.

Although catnip does not have the same response on humans, it is useful to them in other ways. For at least 2000 years, this mint herb has been used in medicines. In addition, it is also found in brewed tea to help humans with digestion and sleep.

dinahsmum · 23-01-2006, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mags

Although catnip does not have the same response on humans, it is useful to them in other ways. For at least 2000 years, this mint herb has been used in medicines. In addition, it is also found in brewed tea to help humans with digestion and sleep.

Hey Mags - spend a few minutes batting a catnip mouse around before you go to bed and you could sleep better!

Mags · 23-01-2006, 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dinahsmum

Hey Mags - spend a few minutes batting a catnip mouse around before you go to bed and you could sleep better!

...might even think of stuffing my pillow with the blighters DM!!!

Donna · 23-01-2006, 06:26 PM

Do any of you lot buy catnip for your cats? Does it work? I dont think it does, but maybe I buying wrong stuff!

Mags · 23-01-2006, 06:56 PM

It's only in the toys that I buy, Donna....

Moli · 23-01-2006, 07:02 PM

Two of mine love it, two don't take any notice of it.....

Donna · 23-01-2006, 07:04 PM

Have heard cats get more into catnip as they get older. Mine are only one now so maybe I keep trying!!

Fran · 23-01-2006, 11:16 PM

Some of my cats love it and some are not bothered by it at all

very strange

Emm · 23-01-2006, 11:45 PM

you can get different varieties of catnip some cats react to some types and not others.

A cat will not react to catnip until they reach sexual maturity and if they are going to react its caused by a gene passed on from their mother.

You can store catnip and catnip toys in your freezer to keep them fresh for longer - also take the toy away from your cat occasionally so its not always lying around.

Moli · 23-01-2006, 11:49 PM

Thanks Emm, great info, now I know why my older cats like it, and the young ones don't...........

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