Catmint, particularly the ornamental hybrid Nepeta x faassenii, is a perennial herb that does attract cats, though its effect is often less pronounced than its famous relative, catnip. This attraction is a shared characteristic among many species within the Nepeta genus. The plant releases volatile organic compounds into the air, which stimulate the characteristic behavioral response in felines. This aromatic quality draws domestic cats and even some larger wild cat species toward the plant.
The Chemical Reason for Feline Attraction
The source of the feline attraction to catmint is nepetalactone, a molecule found in the plant’s essential oil. When a cat sniffs the broken leaves or stems, nepetalactone enters the nasal cavity and binds to receptors in the olfactory tissue. This chemical signal travels to the olfactory bulb, which processes scents, and then moves to other parts of the brain.
Nepetalactone is structurally similar to certain feline pheromones, which explains why it triggers a euphoric or playful reaction. Signals are sent to the amygdala, which manages emotional responses, and the hypothalamus, which regulates behavioral responses. This stimulation often results in behaviors like sniffing, licking, chewing, head-shaking, and body-rubbing against the plant.
The response to nepetalactone is genetic, meaning not all cats are affected. Approximately 70 to 80 percent of domestic cats possess the autosomal dominant gene necessary for this reaction. Kittens under a few months old and some older cats may not respond to the chemical at all. For susceptible cats, the effects are generally short-lived, typically lasting between five and fifteen minutes.
Distinguishing Catmint from Catnip
Both catmint and catnip belong to the same genus, Nepeta. The plant commonly referred to as catnip is the species Nepeta cataria, while catmint usually refers to hybrid varieties like Nepeta x faassenii. The key difference between them lies in the concentration of the active chemical nepetalactone.
Nepeta cataria is the most potent source of nepetalactone and is the species commercially used in cat toys and dried products. Its leaves are typically gray-green and heart-shaped, and it produces small white flowers. Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii) is primarily cultivated as a garden perennial for its ornamental value, featuring silvery-green foliage and lavender-blue flowers.
Catmint contains nepetalactone, but the concentration is significantly lower, resulting in a milder and less consistent attraction for cats. Gardeners often choose catmint because it is a hardy, long-blooming plant that attracts pollinators. This common confusion in naming often leads people to expect the same strong reaction from ornamental catmint as they would from Nepeta cataria.
Safety and Application
Catmint is considered non-toxic to cats and contains no harmful compounds, making it a safe addition to a garden frequented by felines. However, ingestion of large quantities of any plant material, including catmint, can potentially lead to mild digestive upset.
Overconsumption may result in temporary symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, so monitoring intake is advised if a cat has access to a live plant. In multi-cat households, the euphoric effect can occasionally lead to overstimulation or brief aggression between cats. The experience is not addictive, and a cat’s sensitivity decreases temporarily after exposure.
For application, catmint is typically grown as a robust, low-maintenance perennial in sunny garden spots. Gardeners may plant it to attract neighborhood cats or simply to enjoy its aesthetic appeal and ability to attract beneficial insects. The leaves can also be dried and crumbled, similar to catnip, for use in toys or as a sprinkle to encourage play.