Cats are naturally curious and often explore household plants. Knowing which plants are safe and which are toxic is important for their well-being. Many cat owners search for information on the “cat and kitten plant,” a well-known herb with unique effects on felines.
The “Cat and Kitten Plant” Defined: Catnip
The plant commonly referred to as the “cat and kitten plant” is Nepeta cataria, widely known as catnip. This perennial herb belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae, and is characterized by its square stems, heart-shaped, scalloped leaves, and small, often white or lavender flowers that grow in spikes.
Catnip’s widespread recognition comes from its unique interaction with felines. The plant contains nepetalactone, an active chemical compound primarily concentrated in its leaves and stems. When cats encounter nepetalactone through sniffing or ingesting, it binds to nasal tissue receptors, stimulating sensory neurons connected to the brain. This can elicit responses like euphoria, increased playfulness, rolling, rubbing, or relaxed tranquility in susceptible cats. Not all cats react to catnip; sensitivity is an inherited trait, with approximately 50-75% of cats showing a noticeable response.
Growing and Using Catnip
Cultivating catnip at home provides a fresh supply for your feline friends. Catnip thrives in conditions similar to other mint family herbs, preferring full sun exposure. It adapts to various soil types but performs best in well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Regular watering is beneficial, especially during dry periods, though catnip is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Propagation can be achieved through seeds, cuttings, or by dividing mature plants. Seeds can be sown directly outdoors in spring after the last frost or started indoors several weeks earlier. Once the catnip plant is established, you can offer it to your cat in several ways. Fresh leaves can be given directly, or sprigs can be rubbed onto toys to transfer the aromatic oils. For longer storage, catnip leaves can be dried, which concentrates the nepetalactone, making the dried herb potent and easily stored in an airtight container. Offering catnip in moderation, perhaps a few times a week, can prevent overstimulation and maintain its effectiveness for your cat.
Beyond Catnip: Other Cat-Friendly Plants
Beyond catnip, several other plants are considered safe for cats. Cat grass, often a mix of oat, wheat, barley, or rye grasses, is a popular choice that provides a safe chewing alternative to household plants and can aid in digestion. Spider plants (Chlorophytum comosum) are also non-toxic to cats and are easy to care for, with their long, arching leaves and numerous plantlets.
Certain herbs commonly used in cooking are also safe for cats. Basil (Ocimum basilicum), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) can be grown indoors or outdoors safely if ingested in small amounts. While these plants do not elicit the same euphoric response as catnip, they add greenery to your home safely. Always ensure any plant introduced into a cat’s environment is free from pesticides or chemical treatments.
Plants to Avoid: Common Toxins for Cats
Cat owners must also be aware of toxic plants to keep them out of reach. Lilies (Lilium species and Hemerocallis species), for example, are highly poisonous to cats. Even small ingestions of any part, including pollen, can lead to severe kidney failure. Symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite can appear within hours of exposure.
Sago palms (Cycas revoluta) are another dangerous plant for cats; all parts, particularly the seeds, contain a toxin causing liver failure, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures. Common houseplants like peace lilies (Spathiphyllum species) and philodendrons (Philodendron species) contain calcium oxalate crystals. These can cause oral irritation, burning of the mouth, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if chewed or ingested. If a cat is suspected of ingesting a toxic plant, contact a veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately. Removing all known toxic plants from your home and garden is a preventative measure for your cat’s safety.