As a kitty owner, I used to assume the catnip toys I bought would mellow out my energetic furball. But after seeing her wild-eyed “nip” reactions, I wasn’t so sure.
Does catnip make cats calm or crazy?? Understanding catnip’s effects cleared up the confusion.
After researching how catnip impacts feline behavior and physiology, it’s evident the response depends on the individual cat. Reactions can range from chilled out to hyperactive depending on genetics, dosage, and tolerance. But the blissful, uninhibited play it stimulates reveals a clear mood-boosting effect.
In this article, we’ll unravel the science behind catnip’s influence to understand why cats can’t resist it. I’ll also share tips for safe catnip enjoyment based on your kitty’s personal reaction. While catnip may not actually sedate cats, it does provide euphoric moments of carefree fun we get to enjoy with them.
So the next time you catch kitty going crazy over a catnip kick, don’t worry – she’s just reveling in a state of sensory ecstasy thanks to nature’s kitty drug. Let’s delve into the magical world of Nepeta cataria and how it became a recreational staple for domestic cats.
KEY TAKEAWAY
Does catnip make cats calm or crazy?
Understanding the effects of catnip on cats (1) is essential for pet owners. While some cats may become calm and relaxed, others may exhibit playful and energetic behavior when exposed to catnip. It is important to observe and understand your cat’s individual response to provide them with a safe and enjoyable experience.
Catnip’s Variable Effects on Cats
The reaction cats have to catnip is highly variable depending on the individual. Some common responses include:
- Intense, frenzied energy and playfulness
- Rolling, flipping, chasing imaginary prey
- Rubbing, scratching, bunny-kicking toys
- Temporary euphoria and disorientation
- Relaxed, chilled out behavior
- No reaction at all in some cats
Given this wide range, catnip does not actually have consistent sedative or stimulating effects. The intensity and type of reaction depends on genetics, dosage, and environmental factors. What unifies the experience seems to be a pleasurable “high.” Under catnip’s influence, inhibitions lower as cats enter an elevated mood state and sensorial wonderland.
For owners, catnip can be perplexing if you expect it to reliably mellow out your kitty. But now you know the cat euphoria it delivers can manifest in active or passive responses based on the individual. Approach catnip as an amusing adventure in enhancing your cat’s enjoyment rather than a quick fix for stresses. The key is getting to know your cat’s personal reaction first.
The Science Behind Catnip’s Influence
The active compound in catnip is called nepetalactone (2), which resembles feline pheromones and neurotransmitters. When sniffed, it binds to olfactory receptors and affects several regions of the cat brain:
- Amygdala – governs emotion processing and is associated with the “high”
- Hypothalamus – drives reward response and good feelings
- Hippocampus – influences memory function and disorientation
This explains the diversity of responses, from excitable hype to dreamy relaxation. But it ultimately produces a temporary elevated mood state, akin to euphoria in humans. So catnip essentially generates a feeling of bliss, regardless of how it’s outwardly displayed based on the cat.
Researchers believe catnip sensitivity and behavioral reaction is hereditary. The nepetalactone compound is structurally similar to valepotriates derived from valerian root, known for its sedative properties in humans. But for cats, it simply induces a temporary sense of uninhibited happiness. Understanding the neurological effects makes the wacky catnip experience more logical!
Active vs. Passive Catnip Responses
An estimated 50-70% of cats respond to catnip, expressing either an active or passive response:
Active
- Hyperactive movement and vocalizations
- Playful acrobatics, pouncing and chasing
- Frenetic energy and lack of inhibition
Passive
- Lounging with relaxed muscles
- Gentle kneading/nuzzling movements
- Slow-motion movements
- Dreamy, peaceful disposition
Kittens under 3-6 months generally do not react to catnip before reaching sexual maturity. As adults, cat personality likely influences whether they become wired and jumpy or floaty and mellow when encountering catnip. Both reactions provide euphoric mood enhancement.
For owners, determining your cat’s tendencies allows you to manage their catnip experience. If your cat grows over-stimulated or aggressive, catnip may not be suitable for them. But for most cats, it delivers a temporary harmless high that reveals their fun, unconstrained side!
Catnip’s Therapeutic Effects
While catnip is recreational for most cats, it has additional therapeutic potential:
- Alleviates anxiety, stress and depression
- Fosters playfulness and curiosity
- Provides distraction from discomfort or boredom
- Boosts mood after trauma or sickness
- Encourages social interaction between cats
Cat caregivers can strategically employ catnip to positively impact mood and quality of life, especially for cats needing comfort or distraction. The sense of euphoria can also reduce fearful behavior and enhance environmental exploration.
Just like other comfort-providing behaviors like hugging, catnip therapy has its place in soothing cats when applied thoughtfully. Of course, forcing it on an unwilling cat or using it to excess will diminish benefits. But when used judiciously, catnip can enhance welfare and happiness.
More on why catnips make cats go crazy.
Using Catnip Responsibly
To use catnip in a balanced, rewarding way:
- Start with a small amount to gauge your cat’s individual reaction
- Use it as an occasional treat, not a constant supply
- Give cats solo play time with toys to “come down” from the high
- Store catnip out of reach in a sealed container when not in use
- Monitor for signs of overstimulation or aggression
- Try organic catnip or ultra potent dried leaves
With reasonable precautions, the magical herb catnip can enrich a cat’s existence without causing harm. Consult your veterinarian if concerned about effects on your individual cat. Overall, enjoy catnip as a whimsical way to bond and delight your kitty!
More on where is catnip native to.
Conclusion
Whether your cat responds to catnip with chilled out bliss or energetic play, hopefully now you understand this unique herb’s happy effects on our feline friends. Not all cats react, but those with the sensory apparatus to experience it certainly get a euphoric boost.
Use catnip safely and periodically so it remains a special treat. Give your cat ample solo play time while under the influence. And enjoy the hilarious antics and cuteness overload a good nip session elicits.
Catnip simply allows cats to fully immerse themselves in carefree jubilation. As caregivers, we get to see past their normally reserved exteriors when catnip calls. So let loose and have some fun! And be sure to capture any entertaining catnip exploits on video.
Thanks for learning with me today! Feel free to reach out with any other cat health and care questions. Wishing you and your feline many happy catnip adventures ahead!
More on is catnip safe for cats.
References
- https://www.dutch.com/blogs/cats/what-does-catnip-do-to-cats#:~:text=While%20your%20cat%20might%20%E2%80%9Cgo,become%20more%20aggressive%20on%20catnip.
- https://www.inverse.com/science/catnip-powers-explained
