What Is Catnip? Effects, Benefits, and Safety for Cats

What Is Catnip?

Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb from the mint family, known for its leafy green appearance and distinct aroma. It contains nepetalactone, an essential oil that triggers a strong behavioral response in some cats. Interestingly, sensitivity to catnip is genetic — around 30% to 50% of cats show no reaction at all.

Kittens typically don’t respond to catnip until they’re between 3 and 6 months old, when this inherited trait begins to emerge.

How Does Catnip Affect Cats?

Catnip affects cats differently depending on whether they smell or eat it:

• When sniffed: Nepetalactone binds to receptors in a cat’s nasal tissue, stimulating areas of the brain linked to emotion and behavior. This can cause cats to roll, rub, purr, meow, or become hyperactive.
• When eaten: The effect is usually the opposite — most cats become calm and relaxed.

Typical catnip sessions last around 10 minutes, after which a cat becomes temporarily immune to its effects for about two hours.

Is Catnip Safe for Cats?

Yes — catnip is generally safe for cats. While overindulgence is rare, eating large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Most cats instinctively know when they’ve had enough, but it’s a good idea to supervise initial interactions.

Key tips:

• Limit catnip sessions to a few times per week.
• Avoid giving catnip to aggressive or anxious cats, as reactions can vary.
• Store dried catnip in an airtight container in the freezer to keep it fresh.