Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to southern and eastern Europe, northern parts of the Middle East, and Central Asia, though it has naturalized widely in North America. This plant is known for its unique effects on felines, leading to its common name and frequent misspelling as “catniss.”
Why Cats React to Catnip
Cats react to catnip due to nepetalactone, a chemical compound found in the plant’s leaves and stems. When cats sniff this volatile oil, it binds to receptors in their nasal tissue, stimulating areas of the brain associated with emotion and behavior. This interaction can trigger behaviors like rolling, rubbing, purring, meowing, licking, and chewing.
Catnip’s effects are short-lived, usually lasting 5 to 15 minutes, after which a cat may become temporarily desensitized for 30 minutes to two hours. Not all cats respond to catnip; sensitivity is a genetic trait, with 30% to 50% showing no reaction. While sniffing catnip leads to stimulation, ingesting it often has a calming or sedative effect. Catnip is considered safe and non-addictive for cats, though consuming large amounts can cause mild gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea.
Growing Catnip
Cultivating Nepeta cataria is straightforward; it is a hardy perennial. Catnip thrives in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. It prefers well-draining soil, ranging from sandy to loamy, with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
Catnip can be grown from seeds or cuttings. When planting seeds, cold stratify them by refrigerating for 3-4 weeks; this helps break dormancy and encourages germination within 7-21 days. Sow seeds about 1/8 inch deep, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged until seedlings establish. For established plants, water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, as catnip is drought-tolerant and susceptible to root rot in overly wet conditions. Spacing plants 18 to 24 inches apart allows for adequate growth, and pinching back stems can encourage a bushier habit.
How to Use and Store Catnip
To offer catnip to cats, sprinkle dried catnip on toys, scratching posts, or cat beds. Fresh leaves, when bruised or rubbed, release the active compounds that attract cats. Offering catnip intermittently, a few times a week, can prevent “catnip fatigue,” where cats become less responsive due to frequent exposure.
Drying and proper storage preserve catnip’s potency. Harvest catnip when the plant begins to flower, as oil levels are highest then. To dry, hang small bundles of stems upside down in a cool, dark, well-ventilated area for one to two weeks until leaves are crumbly. Alternatively, spread leaves on a baking sheet and dry in an oven at its lowest setting (150°F or 66°C) for 10-20 minutes, or in a food dehydrator at a low temperature. Once dry, remove leaves from stems and store in an airtight container, such as a glass jar, in a cool, dark place like a pantry or freezer to maintain freshness for several months.
Catnip Alternatives
For cats that do not respond to Nepeta cataria, other plants can elicit similar positive reactions. Silver vine (Actinidia polygama), native to Asia, is more potent than catnip and contains active compounds like actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide. About 80% of cats respond to silver vine, making it a viable option for non-responders.
Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) is another alternative, containing actinidine, which can stimulate cats despite its calming properties in humans. Cats react to the roots of the plant. Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) wood appeals to some cats, with about 50% showing a positive response. These alternatives provide enjoyable experiences for cats not genetically predisposed to react to traditional catnip.