Cat nip, or Nepeta cataria, is an herb in the mint family that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for cats. It has a sweet, aromatic scent that some cats find irresistible, and it has many beneficial effects on our feline friends. In this article, we will discuss catnip and its many benefits so keep reading!
What is Cat nip?
Cat nip is an herb native to Europe, Asia and Africa. It’s most commonly known for its calming effect on cats, although it can also have stimulating effects depending on how much the cat consumes. Cat nip contains nepetalactone – a chemical compound that when inhaled by cats can cause reactions ranging from stimulation to relaxation. This reaction is typically temporary and safe; however, if your cat eats large amounts of the herb it may become sick or uncomfortable.
Benefits of Cat Nip
Cat nip offers several benefits to cats as it helps to relax them when appropriately administered in small doses. The oil contained in the leaves provides sedative effects which can help cats relieve stress and relax before bedtime. Additionally, catnip contains vitamins A and C which can help support the immune system in addition to promoting good eye health due to the flavonoids within it.
There are also compounds like myrcene which act as antiseptics and capsicum delivering pain relief from inflammation or soreness due to injury or infection.
How To Administer Cat Nip
If you plan to give your cat nip regularly then you should stick with dried leaf products known as ‘cat nips’ instead of fresh ones since they are much safer and easier to store without spoiling since they last longer than fresh nips do. When supplying your cat with nips make sure the size is appropriate; too small of pieces could be choking hazards while larger pieces might cause digestive problems depending on how big they are swallowed.
Always start by offering your cat smaller portions prior gradually increasing amounts if needed until reaching desired results. Additionally, you should supply your cats with toys filled with cat-nips such as stuffed animals so they won’t ingest excessive amounts per day from eating these products directly thus avoiding any health complications caused by over intake of this substance over time.
How Does Catnip Affect Cats?
When ingested or inhaled,cat nip triggers reactions in young adult cats usually between 1-7 years old. Cats may rub their face or body against the herb when they encounter it; chew it or simply lick it off their paws after touching it with their faces. When ingested directly by licking or eating it, some cats will have a behavioral response similar to being intoxicated while others may induce a calming effect because of its natural psychedelics found in its leaves.
Most notably though is an increase in activity levels displayed by most kitties upon exposure to cat nip causing them to roll around happily; play with toys; jump around energetically; purr loudly and meow continuously with joy!
Are There Benefits To Giving My Cat Catnip?
Absolutely! Allowing your companion access to fresh catnip every now and again offers a fun distraction that can help keep your pet engaged physically plus mentally stimulated at home indoors if outdoor access isn’t an option.
Additionally, depending on the individual’s reaction said source of entertainment can help alleviate stress caused by boredom – especially during quarantine periods where there’s no option but staying indoors otherwise which could result in destructive behavior developing over time leading up into more serious issues down the line without proper intervention taken care off early on such as providing suitable toys etcetera alongside occasional doses of this natural substance better known as “cat nip”!
So there you have it – everything you need to make an informed decision about introducing your furry companion(s) to this enjoyable treat beloved by all felines alike!
