For us humans, catnip smells pleasantly minty. It smells incredibly tempting to cats. They find it difficult to break their spell. But why? It's time for enlightenment!

Actinidin and nepetalactone - active substances with attraction

Catnip contains two active ingredients that literally drive cats crazy. They are actinidine and nepetalactone. These substances are similar to a substance that is excreted in the urine of unneutered female cats. When cats, and especially tomcats, smell this smell, they can hardly resist its attraction…

But be careful: not all types of catnip have the same effect on cats. There are varieties such as 'Odeur Citron', which smell minty as well as citrusy. Cats don't like a citrusy smell at all.

How Does Catnip Affect Cats?

Contrary to the fears of some cat owners, research has shown that catnip is not toxic to cats. The cats can nibble on the plant without harming their health. Even the essential oil does not harm them when inhaled.

This plant has an intoxicating and beguiling effect on house cats and especially on hangovers. Almost like an administered drug that transports them to dreamland… The cats instinctively seek out the catnip. They roll in it, loll about it, purr and nibble on the shoots.

Catnip has a relaxing effect on nervous animals. Animals that are lazy about exercise are stimulated to become active by their active ingredients. But young animals and older animals usually remain unimpressed and ignore the plant.

How to use catnip for cats?

The effects of catnip on cats were already being used in the Middle Ages. Today you have the opportunity to plant catnip in your home garden and cut off individual shoots for your house tiger at home. Alternatively, you can buy and use the essential oil.

These possible uses include:

  • pack in box, jute bag, pillow
  • Drizzle essential oil on cat toys or scratching posts
  • Spray furniture with the essential oil
  • Spray/rub body parts with the essential oil previously diluted in water

Don't overdo it: If too much furniture, cat toys, scratching posts etc. are scented with catnip, the cat can feel overwhelmed. She also needs a place where she can relax and rest. In addition, the effectiveness of catnip on cats decreases over time if they are constantly confronted with it (habituation effect).

tips and tricks

When it's time to go to the vet, you can use catnip to lure the cat into the uncomfortable and unwelcome carrier.

KKF

Category:

Herbs