Ever wondered what exactly is happening in your cat's brain when they roll on the floor or race around the house after smelling some catnip?
Read on to learn the science behind catnip, why some cats respond differently, and how it can be used for enrichment!
What is catnip and what makes it so special?
Catnip is a plant from the mint family called Nepeta cataria. The "magic" comes from a natural compound found in its leaves and stems called nepetalactone. When cats smell it, this compound triggers sensory receptors in their nose that send signals to the brain.
These signals activate areas associated with pleasure, play, curiosity and excitement.
That’s why catnip often triggers behaviours like:
- Rolling and rubbing
- Purring and vocalizing
- "Zoomies"
- Batting or bunny-kicking toys
Catnip can help:
- Add novelty to your cat's daily routine
- Encourage active play
- Support mental stimulation
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Make unfamiliar areas or items more appealing (e.g. a new cat tree)
It can also be used as a training tool to encourage positive behaviours.
Is it true that not all cats react to catnip?
Yes, and it’s completely normal! Sensitivity to catnip is genetic. About 50-70% of cats respond to it, while others feel nothing at all.
A few factors influence your cat’s reaction to catnip:
- Genetics: Some cats simply don’t have the gene that makes them responsive
- Age: Kittens under 3-6 months usually don’t react to catnip
-
Personality: Some cats show more subtle responses
If your cat doesn’t respond to catnip, it doesn’t mean they're missing out; it just means they need toys with other stimulating features like bells, string, feathers, or silvervine.
How long does the catnip effect last?
The catnip "high" is short and sweet. Most reactions last about 5 to 15 minutes. After that, cats typically become temporarily immune to its effects for a while.
This cooldown period prevents overstimulation, keeps catnip exciting rather than overwhelming, and maintains its novelty when it's reintroduced.
Is catnip safe for cats?
Yes! Catnip is safe when used in moderation. Cats won't become addicted, and there are no harmful long-term effects from normal exposure.
Good catnip habits include:
- Rotating catnip toys with other types of toys
- Allowing your cat to walk away when they’ve finished playing
- Offering only a small pinch of dried catnip leaves
Some cats may get overly excited and play a bit rough. That's normal, but it's another reason why short sessions are recommended.
How can I use catnip for enrichment?
Catnip can be an effective tool for feline enrichment. It encourages cats to interact with their environment and express natural behaviors like stalking, batting, and pouncing.
You can use catnip to:
- Renew interest in older toys (e.g. shaking an old worn cat toy in a bag of dried catnip)
- Encourage exercise
- Make independent play more engaging
- Train your cat (e.g. sprinkling catnip on a scratcher to encourage use)
Common ways to offer your kitty catnip include:
- Catnip-filled plush or felt toys
- Dried catnip, sprinkled lightly on the floor or on scratching surfaces
- Catnip sprays or bubbles
You can also give your cat fresh catnip right from the plant; however, fresh catnip is more potent than dried, so you should only offer your cat a few leaves at a time.
How does catnip fit into my cat's play routine?
Eau de Toylette catnip toy, meowboxshop
Catnip works best when combined with other types of toys and enrichment activities. Variety is what prevents boredom and keeps cats mentally stimulated.
A balanced playtime routine includes:
- Toys with different shapes, sounds and textures
- Interactive and independent play
- Multiple short play sessions with your cat every day
- Frequent novelty
Shipping fun themed toys and delicious treats to your doorstep monthly or every other month, cat subscription box meowbox is the purrfect way to provide kitty regular enrichment.
How does meowbox use catnip to support enrichment?
Monthly or bi-monthly cat subscription box, meowbox
From kickers, plushies and teasers to food puzzles, scratcher toys and silvervine sticks, every meowbox toy is specifically designed to provide enrichment and promote active play. Catnip is combined with other features that tap into your cat's natural hunting instincts like feathers, balls, ribbon and crinkle.
meowbox makes it easy to introduce kitty to fresh, exciting toys and treats on a regular basis. Both you and your cat will look forward to unboxing day every month!
Join the fun and try meowbox here!